JAGUAR LAND ROVER TO AXE RANGE ROVER EVOQUE AND VELAR NEXT YEAR

Jaguar Land Rover has confirmed that the Range Rover Evoque and Velar will end production in the middle of next year. The two models are currently the cheapest in the Range Rover line-up. They will be replaced by an all-new Range Rover GT, an electric model. The GT has been described as resembling a raised family saloon rather than a traditional SUV. It is expected to start at around £90,000. That would be roughly double the Evoque's current starting price of £44,855.

The change is set to mark the first time in almost 60 years that the carmaker has sold a vehicle that is not a high-riding four-wheel drive. The Evoque and Velar have been among the brand's most recognisable models. Their discontinuation closes off what had been the two most affordable routes into Jaguar Land Rover ownership. Bosses said the Land Rover Discovery and a smaller, cheaper Defender would become the group's new entry points once the Evoque and Velar are gone.

Bosses said the shift would move the Range Rover brand further upmarket. They said it was intended to appeal to a wealthier clientele. The GT itself is set to become the Range Rover brand's own entry-level car once the Evoque and Velar are discontinued. That position is distinct from the Discovery and Defender's new role as entry points across the wider company.