Land Rover certainly seems to be doing something (or a few things!) right this year. The 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque began the year on a positive note by winning several award- one of which was the "American Truck of the Year" designation at the 2012 North American International Show in Detroit. This followed 19 percent global sales increases for the company for the 2011 year.

So, what makes Land Rover so successful? After all, its chief competitor, GM's Hummer, had no new sales this year and failed to survive long enough to reach its 10-year anniversary. (The last Hummer rolled off production lines in 2010). Well, a lot of the brand's popularity comes from its intriguing history with off-roading adventurers and royalty alike. The Land Rover brand has always been defined by its elegant-yet understated-British elegance, while the Hummer has been seen as a (rather too) tough American, blue-collar brand- at a white collar price.

At the time of its premier, the Hummer was the choice of those who had the financial might to show their on-road prowess; however, when the market began to slow due to rising oil costs and the financial situation in American began to crumble, the Hummer was abandoned for more practical vehicles. With GM's bankruptcy, Hummer became the face of all that was excess, but Land Rover managed to escape this label with its more elegant persona. Today, vehicles like the Range Rover Evoque, which gets 18 MPG city/28 MPG highway show the brand is progressing and following the trends of today.

The Land Rover brand's image and consistent products have carried it through the toughest of times, and even allowed it to excel. Have you explored the 2012 Land Rover lineup? If not, feel free to stop by Land Rover of Hoffman Estates, located at 1051 West Higgins Road Hoffman Estates, IL 60169 and check it out!