LAND Rover's fastest-selling model - the Evoque - has just got even better with a sharper new design, state-of-the-art lighting technology, a more upmarket interior and the company's Ingenium engine which helps make the vehicle up to 18 per cent more efficient.

The luxury SUV features a new front bumper, two new grille designs, all-LED headlamps and a number of alloy wheel options.

Interior improvements include newly-styled seats, a more advanced infotainment system accessed via an eight-inch high resolution touchscreen plus some additional luxurious upholstery choices.

But it's under the bonnet that the 2016 model year Evoque really ups the ante with the introduction of the Ingenium diesel powertrain.

This engine, which is designed, engineered and built in the UK, provides up to 180bhp with fuel economy of up to 68mpg and carbon emissions from as low as 109g/km.

The five-door HSE Dynamic model also had some extra enhancements such as distinctive bonnet vents that were previously only fitted to coupe models.

In addition there was a new tailgate spoiler with a slimmer high-level LED rear brake light.

This particular model also had 20-inch alloys, red Evoque badging, a fixed panoramic roof with powered blind along with a contrast painted black roof with matching spoiler that looked fabulous alongside the car's white paintwork.

The interior was elegantly designed with premium technology and creature comforts to be explored at every turn.

Features included an 11-speaker and subwoofer sound system with DAB digital radio, a CD player and connectivity to all multi-media devices.

There were also heated front seats with 12-way powered adjustment and memory settings, Bluetooth, automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, mood lighting and plenty more besides.

The cabin is beautifully bright and spacious with light flooding in through the panoramic roof and the elevated seating position means the driver benefits from excellent all-round visibility. That said, the sloping roof design of the Evoque means the rear window is quite narrow compared some other compact SUVs.

The car, priced at £40,500 (£47,880 with options fitted), can sprint to 60mph from a standing start in 9.5 seconds and tops out at 124mph.

According to official figures it can deliver combined fuel economy of 59.4mpg with carbon emissions of 125g/km.

In busy congested traffic, the Evoque was a delight to drive and parking is made simple thanks to front and rear sensors, along with a rear camera. Despite its size, the car is deceptively nimble and very easy to manoeuvre.

But in all honesty, it's away from the crowds that the Evoque really comes alive. On quiet country lanes the 2.0-litre diesel engine delivers ample power as it accelerates smoothly through the six-speed manual gearbox and when an extra burst of pace is needed it is always there at your disposal. The road-holding is very assured and the precise steering is another notable factor.

Noise levels within the cabin are fairly hushed although you can expect to hear a little road and wind sound when pushing hard on a motorway, but that's when the pitch-perfect Meridian sound system comes into play.

Comfort levels are also impressive and there is ample room for two back seat passengers - three at a bit of a squeeze.

When it comes to storage, there are plenty of options. The boot can accommodate 420 litres which can be increased to 1,445 litres with the split-folding rear seats dropped flat. In addition, there is an underfloor compartment in the boot, a good-sized glovebox, deep door pockets, a central bin and cup holders.

The Evoque is also kitted out with a comprehensive list of safety features, including hill descent control, lane-keeping assist, autonomous emergency braking, numerous airbags and four-wheel-drive to keep you moving when Mother Nature has other plans.

And it's always worth remembering that the Evoque is very capable when taken off-road too thanks to a wading depth of 500mm, obstacle clearance of 215mm (front) and 240mm (rear), plus an approach angle up to 19 degrees and departure angle of up to 30 degrees.

Clearly very few owners would ever consider taking their pride and joy away from the security of the Tarmac, but it's always nice to know that those capabilities are there in the locker.

So, all in all, the latest Evoque has somehow improved on what was an incredibly fast-selling and popular model.