The Evolute i-Space crossover, the most technologically advanced and long-range model of the Russian brand, has undergone a comprehensive update that can hardly be called a simple restyling. The manufacturer from Lipetsk did not limit itself to cosmetics — the design, interior, and hybrid system have been reworked. As a result, the i-Space has become more modern, convenient, and economical, but at the same time, it has noticeably increased in price.
The main impression is made by the interior. The interior has been completely redesigned: new panels, trim materials, and a 15.6-inch Full HD multimedia screen have appeared. The architecture has become simpler and more modern, and the number of physical buttons has been minimized. The steering column selector has replaced the previous gear lever, and the voice assistant controls most functions — from heated seats to opening the sunroof. However, some solutions take getting used to: the seat is still located high, there are few adjustments, and the climate control remains single-zone. But now both rows of seats are heated and ventilated, and the steering wheel is heated around the entire circumference.
On the outside, the crossover now looks significantly fresher. The front bumper has a new look with a closed pseudo-grille and a laconic air intake at the bottom, and the brand emblem has moved to the hood. Now the i-Space looks closer to modern electric vehicles than to classic models with internal combustion engines. However, the body, headlights, and doors remained the same — the restyling turned out to be neat, without excessive radicalism. The dimensions have not changed: length 4.76 meters, width 1.87, height 1.71, wheelbase — 2.785 meters.
The information system has also become more advanced — VK media services, a DVR, and navigation are built-in, but there is no support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The seven-seater interior can be replaced with a two-row version with an increased trunk up to 934 liters. For rear passengers, there is a backrest tilt and seat ventilation, controlled via the screen.
The main update is the hybrid system. Now, a 1.5-liter H15R gasoline engine with a capacity of 90 hp is working under the hood, which does not drive the wheels directly, but serves as a generator. The electric motor on the front axle has become more powerful — 218 hp, and the battery capacity has increased from 17.5 to 21.5 kWh. The fully electric range has increased to 165 km, and the total range — up to 1250 km according to the WLTP cycle. At the same time, the crossover uses AI-92 gasoline and consumes about 5.8 liters of fuel per 100 km in urban mode.
There are few changes in dynamics — the hybrid accelerates to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds, but it behaves confidently and remains powerful even at low charge. Charging from the network (Type 2 connector) takes about four hours, and the built-in generator can replenish the charge while driving. The suspension has retained its previous settings — soft and energy-intensive, although it is noisy on large joints. On the highway, the heavy (1.9 t) crossover drives steadily, rolls are minimal, and the steering wheel can be adjusted for effort.
The cost of the updated Evolute i-Space has increased significantly: the version with a five-seater interior costs from 3,415,000 rubles, and the seven-seater version is 100 thousand more expensive. However, with participation in the state support program, the price can be reduced to 2,490,000 rubles. At the same time, both trim levels offer the same equipment — LED optics, keyless entry, electric tailgate, all-round view, panoramic roof, 13 speakers, and a set of electronic assistants.
Thus, the updated Evolute i-Space has become much more modern and technologically advanced, while maintaining the practicality and spaciousness of the interior. Yes, the price has increased, but the hybrid system, increased range, and improved equipment make the crossover one of the most interesting Russian electrified cars in its class.
