THEY said it could never be done - producing a pocket Range Rover.

But environmental concerns as well as the soaring prices of luxury vehicles gained sway and the Range Rover Evoque, the lightest Range Rover to date, hit the marketplace running and has not slowed down,

The idea of producing a car or a crossover vehicle on a Range Rover chassis is not new because at least one specialist builder had ideas on paper decades ago.

It may have taken a long time coming, but the Evoque now points the way ahead for the Land Rover range because with its hunky stance, sweeping line and tremendous scope for personalisation options it is most definitely a luxury car for today.

And it is economical because the SD4 2.2-litre diesel option I tested features a combined fuel economy of 44.1mpg.

And take into account that 4x4 and two-wheel drive versions are available and 120-plus mph is in its sights then the diesel Evoque I drove which costs £39,995 starts to make sense.

Carbon emissions from the traditional Range Rovers have sparked criticism in the past but the Evoque 2.2 SD4 has a creditable readout of 174g/km for such a large car.

And car it is because the Evoque successfully bridges the gap between the traditional Range Rover and a premium hatch.

The Evoque comes in either coupe or five-door forms and as might be expected from such a manufacturer the personalisation availability is enhanced by some impressive entertainment kit including an 825W Meridian surround sound system, the innovative Dual-View touchscreen display, TV, rear seat entertainment, an advanced Park Assist automated parking system and powered tailgate.

The customisation opportunities are one of the vehicle's biggest selling points and I have to say that up to now I have not seen two Evoques that are the same.

Neatly designed stowage areas under the load floor add extra capacity, while loadspace stowage rails help to secure contents in the luggage compartment. The five-door offers 60/40 folding rear seat squabs which allows the luggage capacity to be expanded, with a substantial volume of 1,445 litres available with the rear seats folded.

A full-sized fixed glass panoramic roof enhances the sensation of space and comfort in both the coupé and five-door, providing a superb uninterrupted vista for all occupants. Land Rover engineers have developed the Range Rover Evoque to provide customers with a polished ride.

And when it comes to driving, the Evoque is no poor relation because it is agile, very quick and astonishingly sure footed.

It is aided by a sophisticated Adaptive Dynamics system which uses advanced MagneRide dampers to provide a fine balance of confident, nimble handling and supple, controlled ride.

It also features an all-weather, all-surface capability that is a hallmark of the Land Rover brand, enhanced by the latest version of the company's signature terrain response system.

And any drivers wishing to take their Evoque off road will be pleased to know that it has generous ground clearance plus a better breakover angle, approach angle and departure angle than other premium compact SUVs.