Baby Defender Land Rover Lineup

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【Summary】Land Rover is reportedly adding a "baby Defender" to its lineup, set to be released in 2027. The compact SUV will be based on the next-generation Range Rover Evoque, Velar, and Discovery Sport models and will run on an electric vehicle-only platform. The new Defender will be smaller in size and equipped with 800V charging architecture for fast charging. This addition reflects Land Rover's plan to separate its core brands into distinct product lines.

FutureCar Staff Aug 14, 2023 5:14 PM PT

If you're a Land Rover Defender enthusiast but find the SUV to be a tad too large, there's exciting news for you. According to reports, the British automaker has given the green light for a "baby Defender" to join the product line in 2027, making it the fourth model after the 130, 100, and 90.

Autocar reveals that this compact Defender will be closely related to the next-generation Range Rover Evoque, Velar, and Discovery Sport. It will be built on Land Rover's new EMA electric vehicle-only platform and might carry the nameplate "Defender Sport."

While the exact size remains unknown, Autocar suggests that the baby Defender will be "much more compact in all dimensions" compared to the current combustion-powered model. However, due to its shared underpinnings with smaller cars, it is estimated to be around 15 feet long, 6.5 feet wide, and 5.9 feet tall. Currently, the full-size Defender shares the D7 platform with the Discovery, and an electric version is expected to arrive by 2026, using the MLA architecture from the Range Rover.

EMA-based vehicles will feature 800V charging architecture, allowing for quick charging similar to other EVs on the market, potentially reaching a peak rate of 350kW. The batteries for these vehicles will be supplied by Tata's new UK-based factory and are said to have significantly higher energy density than the current Jaguar I-Pace.

This means that the smaller batteries will provide more cabin space, while also offering a raised ride height for off-roading enthusiasts. The introduction of a fourth Defender model is part of JLR's strategy to differentiate its four core brands — Jaguar, Discovery, Range Rover, and Defender — into distinct product lines. The "House of Brands" approach aims to position the Defender with the tagline "embrace the impossible."

With this news, it's clear that Land Rover is continuing to innovate and cater to the preferences of its dedicated fan base. The upcoming baby Defender promises to offer a more compact and electric option for those who desire the iconic Defender experience in a smaller package.