Range Rover Evoque

Price: $43,995
240-hp turbo I-4, 6-speed auto, AWD, EPA 19/28

This is the first Range Rover that drives like a car instead of a bulldozer. That alone made the brand-new Evoque a serious contender.

While Range Rovers have always been super-plush and ultra-capable, they’re also big and dumb. Even among SUVs, they’re too heavy, too thirsty, and handle poorly. Not so the Evoque.

The Evoque delivers snob status in a striking, almost sports car-like shape for under $50,000. It's available as a two-door coupe, and because it's a Rover, can still perform admirably off-road. The supportive seats and huge front-to-back moonroof can’t be found in the more expensive Sport. Neither can the decent gas mileage. In short, the Evoque packs all the distinctive style and luxury we love about Range Rovers into a smaller, more sensible vehicle.

Congratulations, Range Rover, for joining the real world. We now love you much more.