THERE wasn’t much wrong with the previous Range Rover Evoque, so it would have been daft to mess with the formula too much.

In creating this second-generation version, Land Rover has managed to make subtle improvements without jeopardising the things that have made the vehicle so appealing since its launch seven years ago.

When it came to evolving the vehicle, extra room for back seat passengers was clearly high on the priority list, as rear space was one area where the first generation Evoque lagged behind rivals.

Cleverly, Land Rover has been able to increase space in the back without making significant changes to the car’s overall footprint.

This has been achieved by making the wheelbase 21mm longer, with the Evoque now sitting on a new platform, namely the Premium Transverse Architecture.

While the changes might not appear that huge on the face of it, the structure of the new Evoque is almost completely new, not to mention significantly stronger than before.

Indeed, the only metalwork carried over from its predecessor is the door hinges.

With a stiffer structure, combined with overhauled suspension and revised engine mounts, the Evoque undoubtedly offers a more comfortable and refined ride than before.

In comfort mode, it has a floaty and relaxed feel while, in sport mode, you can enjoy the car’s handling abilities, typified by strong grip levels and precise steering.

Under the bonnet, diesel options still play a big part in the Evoque line-up, with my test car powered by an impressive mid-range 2.0-litre 180hp variant.

Offering torque of 430Nm and a 0-60mph time of 8.8 seconds, there’s enough grunt to satisfy the driver in most everyday situations.

Paired with a nine-speed automatic box, the engine, with its hushed tones, is at its best when driven in a more relaxed manner.

Once in the cabin, you sink back into the plush comfy seats and absorb all the Evoque’s loveliness.

It’s an interior that has been improved in most respects, offering a really classy ambience.

The materials are better quality than before, while the dashboard and the superb dual-screen infotainment system are, almost certainly, the best on offer in this particular class. On the recent cold winter days, the heated seats and steering wheel were a blessing, while the front seats will even give you a massage if you’re feeling a little stressed out by the traffic.

The fixed panoramic sunroof, which came as a £1,100 option on this test car, is also worthy of consideration. It allows the cabin to be flooded with light and gives the interior a wonderfully airy feel.

Other nifty features include a roof-mounted camera displaying the road behind on the rear-view mirror when you press a certain button, meaning you can see what’s behind if the rear view window is obscured by tall passengers or luggage.

During my week in the Evoque’s company, I didn’t venture off road, which is probably fairly consistent with most people who own an Evoque.

However, it’s only fair to point out that this 4x4 vehicle is equipped to have excellent off-road capabilities.

Indeed, there are a multitude of all-terrain systems, controlled through the lower touch screen, while the Evoque also offers decent ground clearance.

There’s also the new Clearsight Ground View, which lets the driver see through the bonnet to the ground below, which is handy for off-roading and also when trying to park in tight spaces.

In terms of looks, the Evoque still boasts an eye-catching silhouette, with the aesthetics of this vehicle further enhanced by 20-inch wheels with split spokes.

In conclusion, the quality of the Range Rover has been dialled up by at least 15 per cent. Two of the previous concerns - relating to rear space and overall ride quality - have also been tackled.

Range Rover Evoque R-Dynamic

PRICE: From £44,000 on the road

ENGINE: 2-litre diesel, 180hp

TRANSMISSION: All-wheel drive, nine-speed automatic

PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph in 8.8 seconds and top speed of 126mph

FUEL ECONOMY: 38.4mpg combined

EMISSIONS: 150g/km