'New Addition' to JLR's compact SUV line-up by 2027

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【Summary】Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is set to introduce a compact SUV, dubbed the "baby Defender," by 2027. The new model will be part of JLR's plan to expand the Defender family and will utilize the company's electric vehicle platform. The smaller Defender will be more compact in size compared to the current model and is expected to have a similar size to other compact SUVs in the market.

FutureCar Staff Aug 14, 2023 9:41 AM PT

'New Addition' to JLR's compact SUV line-up by 2027

Land Rover is set to introduce a new 'baby Defender' model, expanding the brand's lineup and venturing into a new segment. This compact 4x4 has been rumored for years but has never been officially announced by JLR. However, it is now expected to arrive as a sibling model to the next-generation Range Rover Evoque, Velar, and Land Rover Discovery Sport, sharing the company's new EMA electric vehicle platform.

The CEO of JLR, Adrian Mardell, confirmed the expansion of the Defender family during an investor conference. He stated that the "Range Rover, Defender, and Discovery brands will come off that platform." This sheds light on the mysterious fourth model line that will be built alongside the three electric SUVs at the Halewood factory.

While no further details were given, it was revealed that the smaller Defender will utilize the electric-only EMA architecture. This suggests that it could be named the Defender Sport and potentially arrive in dealerships by 2027. The compact 4x4 will be much smaller in size compared to the current combustion engine-powered Defender, measuring around 4.6m long, 2m wide, and less than 1.8m tall.

JLR's ambition to separate each of its core brands into distinct product lines is reflected in the introduction of new Defender models. As part of this strategy, the Defender strapline will be 'embrace the impossible', paying homage to the original car's off-road heritage. The smallest entrant into the family will embody the rugged, go-anywhere ethos that made the Defender a household name.

The EMA-based cars will feature advanced battery and propulsion technology, enabling them to compete against other mid-sized SUVs. They will be equipped with 800V charging architecture and have batteries with higher energy density. This will allow for quicker charging and a slimmer battery design, creating more cabin space. The raised ride height will further enhance the Defender brand's ethos.

The Defender Sport has the potential to become a key volume player for JLR globally, priced lower than the full-size sibling but offering similar attributes. It is expected to be built in Merseyside and use batteries manufactured in Somerset. The success of the Range Rover Evoque and Land Rover Discovery Sport suggests that downsized interpretations of iconic SUVs hold appeal in the premium car market.