The first-generation Evoque was a ground-breaking trendsetter in the compact luxury SUV segment. It could have easily become a niche player, but Land Rover's gamble paid off and it went on to become its best-selling vehicle.

The recently announced second-generation version was on hand at Land Rover's stand at the New York Auto Show and while it may look like a lightly updated version of the original, this new model is all-new and packed with the latest tech.

Design-wise Land Rover has followed an evolutionary approach, incorporating styling cues like the slim LED lights from the larger Velar and the large diameter wheels and shallow window glass that combine to give the Evoque a very sporty and sophisticated look.

While there was nothing much wrong with the way the Evoque looked, it had been eclipsed by a number of newer rivals in the powertrain and safety departments, both of which have been rectified in the new model.

The minimalist interior is covered in soft-touch plastics and premium quality materials and can be optioned with a bewildering array of features, including a variety of natural fibers and fabrics. The new car also has a longer wheelbase which benefits rear passenger space as well as cargo carrying capacity.

Under the hood there is an updated 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine which develops 246 horsepower and 269 lb ft of torque or 296 hp and 295 lb ft if equipped with the all-new 48-volt mild-hybrid system. It may look pretty but like all Land Rover products, this Evoque is still eminently capable off-road.

The standard Terrain Response system can detect changes in the road surface and automatically adjust various parameters to ensure that the Evoque is a class-leader both on and off the beaten track.