Land Rover has been around for quite some time, winning awards along the way. The automaker’s Range Rover line is popular for its off-roading vehicles. But looking at two sister models — the Range Rover Velar and Range Rover Evoque — you’ll see a few similarities. It might make you wonder if Land Rover didn’t build the same vehicle twice. Even the two model’s sales figures are close. So, how do these two SUVs compare?

What does the Range Rover Evoque offer?

The 2021 Range Rover Evoque compact luxury SUV debuted the Pivi Pro touchscreen. Its previous infotainment system was a bit too slow for most owners’ tastes, but with this new technology, the screen eliminates the slow lag times drivers previously experienced. 

Also, taking inspiration from the Land Rover Defender, the Evoque now has a new electric architecture allowing it to offer driver assistance features along with some convenience items as well. Unfortunately, though, one feature left the lineup. The Evoque’s off-roading mild-hybrid model is no longer in production. 

With the 2021 model, you get 18-inch wheels that come in a stunning glossy black color and a five-spoke design. You can upgrade to 21-inch wheels. New paint colors are also available, including Portofino Blue and Lantau Bronze.

Pricing ranges from $44,000 to $54,000. 

What do you get with the Range Rover Velar?

The Range Rover Velar, a midsize luxury SUV, comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drivetrain. You get a couple of engine options, though. The P250 trim has a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. There’s also a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 in the P340 and a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 powering the P550. 

As for amenities, the Velar offers a dual-screen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and voice control. Also, expect 14-way adjustable front seats. Driver assists include lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring,  

Its 9.9 inches of ground clearance allow the Velar to drive through 25.6 inches of water and over rocky terrain and gravel. It also comes with an air suspension that helps make the ride more comfortable, even on roads pitted with potholes.

Pricing for the Velar ranges from $56,300 for the base to $90,790 for the top-trim SVO.

How these 2 models compare

The Range Rover Velar and Range Rover Evoque are different off-roading SUVs, but they still have plenty in common. For instance, they’re known for reliability issues. The Velar is no stranger to electronic problems, especially with its center touchscreen. Its engine didn’t fare much better. It struggled to gain any speed. 

The Evoque has seen several recalls concerning issues such as the windshield wipers, the headliner, and a potential hazard with a piece of metal detaching from the vehicle and flying at occupants in an accident. And many Evoque and Velar owners have complained about the constant need for repairs. 

However, despite these two SUVs’ reliability issues, both still see decent sales. In 2019, the Velar sold 17,087 units, GoodCarBadCar reports, and the Evoque sold 11,529, GoodCarBadCar shows. In 2020, sales were pretty close. The Evoque sold 10,510, while the Velar had 12,817 in sales. In the first quarter of 2021, the figures were again similar, with 3,782 for the Evoque and 5,670 for the Velar. 

Both the Land Rover Range Rover Velar and Evoque are neck and neck in many ways. However, each has something that buyers want — off-roading capability and luxurious interiors.