A baby Land Rover Defender SUV is on the way

**A Baby Land Rover Defender SUV Is on the Way**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 27, 2025, 04:02 PM*

Land Rover is gearing up to launch a smaller, entry-level version of its iconic Defender SUV. Although the new model has been in development for years without an official announcement from Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), recent test sightings suggest its arrival is imminent. The company aims to introduce this highly anticipated vehicle as part of its electric car lineup as early as 2027.

### Design Evolution

The upcoming Defender will maintain the chunky, straight-edged proportions that define its full-sized counterpart. However, expect a smaller, lower-riding silhouette with a design that leans less towards rugged off-road capability and more toward everyday road use. Interestingly, the name **‘Defender Sport’** briefly appeared on Land Rover’s website, hinting that JLR may adopt this naming convention for its sportier, road-focused variants—similar to the Discovery Sport and Range Rover Sport.

### Model Transition: Could It Replace the Discovery Sport?

Positioned below the full-sized Defender, this new model—sometimes referred to as the **‘Defender 80’**—may replace the aging Discovery Sport, which has been part of JLR’s range since 2014 and is currently available only as a plug-in hybrid. With its chunky proportions and strong off-road heritage, the baby Defender could also serve as a spiritual successor to the Freelander, a beloved model that was phased out in favor of the Discovery Sport.

### Market Strategy and Platform Sharing

Priced lower than the larger Defender but boasting similar features and a clear family resemblance, the baby Defender aims to broaden JLR’s appeal and become a volume seller globally. It will share its platform with the next-generation Range Rover Evoque and Velar, all built on JLR’s new 800V EMA (Electric Modular Architecture) platform. This strategy promises to deliver a modern, efficient vehicle with strong electric capabilities.

### Manufacturing Plans

Production of the baby Defender will take place at JLR’s Halewood plant in Merseyside, which is currently undergoing upgrades to support electric vehicle manufacturing. This EV will be equipped with in-house electric motors and batteries sourced from Tata’s upcoming Somerset plant. However, it’s worth noting that JLR recently announced a strategic scaling back of its pure EV plans in favor of increased production of plug-in hybrids, responding to shifting market demand.

**In summary**, the arrival of a smaller, electric-powered Land Rover Defender is set to expand the brand’s footprint in the SUV market by offering a versatile, family-friendly option that balances ruggedness with road-ready refinement. With production slated to begin by 2027, enthusiasts and potential buyers alike have plenty to look forward to.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/land-rover-s-baby-defender-in-works-could-be-ev-only-model/story