New small electric 'Defender Sport' release anticipated by JLR as brand expands

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【Summary】JLR is planning to release a smaller electric version of the Defender called the Defender Sport in 2027. The new model will be built on the Electrified Modular Architecture platform and is expected to have a similar appearance to the core Defender model. This move is part of JLR's diversification strategy, which includes the release of several new EVs in the coming years.

FutureCar Staff Aug 31, 2023 6:46 AM PT

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is undergoing significant changes, separating its core models into individual brands and announcing the development of several new electric vehicles (EVs). Rumors have been circulating for a while that Land Rover is planning to release a smaller version of the Defender, and it seems that these rumors are becoming more likely to come true.

In a recent announcement, JLR confirmed the production of an electric version of the Defender. It is anticipated that a smaller variant will also be introduced, utilizing the same platform known as the Electrified Modular Architecture (EMA).

During an exclusive interview with JLR CEO Adrian Mardell, he mentioned their plans to expand the Defender family by creating other vehicles. He stated, "By this time next Global Media Day, we'll have a clear understanding of what we are comfortable producing off the EMA platform."

According to speculation, the smaller Defender could be named the Defender Sport, following a similar naming convention to the Range Rover Sport. Our exclusive renders provide a glimpse of what the Defender Sport might look like.

It is expected that the smaller model will draw design inspiration from the core Defender, allowing each brand within the JLR family to have its own distinct appearance. The Defender Sport is likely to feature shorter overhangs and retain the boxy utilitarian look that is characteristic of the Defender lineage.