Startech Reveals Range Rover Evoque Upgrade at Dubai Show
Startech's custom Range Rover Evoque, unveiled at the Dubai International Motor Show, features a bold body kit, lowered suspension and new alloy wheel options.
Startech presented its take on the Range Rover Evoque at the Dubai International Motor Show in November 2011, giving the compact SUV a more aggressive look and a suite of mechanical upgrades. The German tuner’s package builds on the Evoque’s already distinctive styling, targeting buyers after something more individual than the standard factory car. At the time, the Evoque was enjoying a wave of attention, having recently won the “Scottish Car of the Year” award and with a cabriolet version rumoured for production. Startech’s modifications aimed to keep the Evoque in the spotlight, particularly in markets with a strong appetite for customisation.
Introduction: Startech’s Vision for the Evoque
Body Kit and Exterior Changes
The Startech Evoque stands out with a full aerodynamic body kit. The most noticeable elements are the new front and rear bumpers, deeper side skirts and a prominent rear diffuser. The kit is designed to give the Evoque a lower, wider stance. Larger alloy wheels are standard, with 21-inch wheels fitted to the show car and options for 20 or 22 inches. The overall effect is a more assertive appearance than the regular Evoque, aimed squarely at buyers in markets where visual impact is key.
- Aggressive front and rear bumpers
- Deeper side skirts
- Rear diffuser as standard
- Choice of 20-, 21- or 22-inch alloy wheels
The visual modifications help the Evoque stand out among luxury SUVs, especially in places like Dubai, where the demand for bespoke vehicles is high. The body kit not only enhances the vehicle’s appearance but also signals its performance intent, even before any mechanical upgrades are considered.
Suspension and Performance Upgrades
Startech has fitted the Evoque with new lowering springs, reducing the ride height by 35 mm. This not only sharpens the car’s stance but is intended to improve handling. The company also installed a new exhaust system to give the car a more distinctive sound. A performance package for the 2.0-litre petrol engine was announced, though Startech did not publish final power or torque figures at the time of the Dubai show.
Lowered by 35 mm, the Startech Evoque sits noticeably closer to the road than the standard car. The new exhaust system is designed to deliver a sportier note, enhancing the driving experience for those both inside and outside the vehicle. While the precise performance gains remain undisclosed, the announcement of a package for the 2.0-litre petrol engine suggests that Startech intended to offer more than just cosmetic changes.
Interior and Market Context
Startech’s show car focused on exterior and mechanical changes, with no details released about interior modifications. The Evoque itself had recently won “Scottish Car of the Year”, and the Startech version was timed to capitalise on the model’s popularity, especially in markets like the Middle East where bespoke styling is in demand. No official prices were given for the Startech package at launch. The company positioned the conversion as a premium alternative for Evoque buyers wanting to stand out, but without the radical approach of some other tuners.
The Startech Evoque joined a field of aftermarket-modified SUVs shown at Dubai, underlining the region’s appetite for high-specification, visually distinctive vehicles. While some competitors in the tuning world focus on extreme bodywork or major engine upgrades, Startech’s package for the Evoque strikes a balance between visual drama and everyday usability. This approach may appeal to buyers who want exclusivity without compromising the Evoque’s original character.
Startech Evoque Compared to Other Tuned SUVs
At the 2011 Dubai International Motor Show, the Startech Evoque was shown alongside other tuned luxury SUVs and high-performance cars. The event featured modified vehicles from various brands, including Mercedes, BMW, and Porsche, each aiming to attract attention with unique styling and performance enhancements. The Evoque’s transformation by Startech placed it among these high-profile debuts, reflecting the importance of the Middle Eastern market for luxury and tuning specialists.
| Model | Tuner | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Range Rover Evoque | Startech | Aerodynamic kit, 35 mm lowered suspension, 20-22 inch wheels |
| Mercedes CL63 AMG | Vath | Performance upgrades, visual enhancements |
| BMW 7-Series L | Tuningwerk | 720 HP, bespoke bodywork |
| Porsche 911 | TechArt | 700 HP, aerodynamic modifications |
Conclusion: Evoque’s Ongoing Appeal
Startech’s Range Rover Evoque package demonstrates how the model’s strong base design can be further personalised to suit the tastes of demanding buyers. With its aggressive new body kit, lowered stance, and the promise of additional performance, the Startech Evoque is designed to stand out. Although interior changes and precise engine figures were not detailed at launch, the package was clearly aimed at those seeking exclusivity and style in a premium compact SUV. The Evoque’s presence at the Dubai show, alongside other tuned luxury vehicles, highlights its status as a desirable platform for customisation.
