The Range Rover Evoque has always been desirable but Land Rover hopes that the availability of this sleek Convertible bodystyle will take demand to a new level. It certainly looks sleek and the engineering has been completed in such a way that buyers still get a practical four-seat cabin with reasonable bootspace. Plus that legendary off road ability is unaffected.

So, what’s it like? Very nice indeed actually. The engines are carried over from pokier versions of the standard fixed-top models, which means that buyers get a choice of either a 180PS TD4 diesel unit or a 240PS 2.0-litre turbo Si4 petrol powerplant. Diesel buyers get the choice of permanent 4WD or an ‘Active Driveline’ 4WD set-up that defaults to 2WD in tarmac use.

The Convertible bodystyle is based on that of the three-door Coupe version of the Evoque but adds a Z-fold electric fabric roof that can lower in 18 seconds (at speeds of up to 30mph) and rise again in just 21 seconds. In addition, an optional rear wind deflector can be quickly installed between the rear three quarter trim panels, enhancing refinement when the roof is stowed.

Once the roof is lowered, discreet hinged panels located at the rear of the interior fold flush to conceal the mechanism, ensuring that the Evoque’s contemporary lines retain a clean and uncluttered appearance. A Roll-Over Protection Device features deployable roll-over bars hidden in the rear quarter panel.

This is the kind of car Land Rover needs to be making. The kind of model that will lower the brand’s age demographic - and get people talking in the showrooms. Yes it’s pricey - and the extra weight of the drop-top bodystyle compromises efficiency (and practicality) a little. Still, we don’t think that too many potential buyers will worry very much about these issues.

These people will be attracted by the idea of enjoying what is currently the market’s only SUV convertible. The idea of taking to the desert with the roof down has an undeniable appeal. As does this car. If you can afford it, we think you’d like one.

CAR: Range Rover Evoque Convertible
PRICES: £47,500-£52,400
INSURANCE GROUPS: 39E-43E
CO2 EMISSIONS: 149-201g/km
PERFORMANCE: [Si4] 0-62mph 8.6s / top speed 130mph
FUEL CONSUMPTION: [TD4 diesel] (combined) 49.6mpg
STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: ESP, ABS, twin front, side and curtain airbags
WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: length/width/height mm 4370/1900/1609