Car of the Year 2011

Britain's biggest-selling motoring magazine has really fallen for the many charms of the new Range Rover Evoque. As well as being declared Car of the Year in the Auto Express New Car Awards, the Evoque was also named Best Compact SUV.

Citing the Evoque's "mould breaking" looks and driving dynamics as key factors in its success, the magazine also praised its keen pricing. "The Evoque puts the hugely desirable Range Rover brand within the reach of compact executive car buyers for the very first time," said Auto Express Acting Editor Graham Hope. "The way it looks and drives serves only to underline its premium appeal."

As Graham notes, "the winner of the Auto Express Car of the Year prize really needs to break the mould - and the Evoque does exactly that." He points out that the Evoque's "appeal goes far beyond its distinctive concept car styling," and is unsurprised that we already have "a bulging order book" for the latest addition to the Range Rover line-up.

Land Rover UK Managing Director Colin Green welcomed the recognition. He said "to receive an accolade such as this so soon, and from such a respected journal as Auto Express, is a huge boost for the talented and dedicated professionals who have worked so hard and so long to bring the Evoque to market."