**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 introduce a smaller, entry-level version of its iconic Defender SUV. Although this new model has been in development for years without an official announcement from Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), recent spy shots reveal that it is now undergoing testing. The company aims to add this highly anticipated vehicle to its electric car portfolio as early as 2027.
### Design Evolution: Familiar Yet Different
The upcoming baby Defender will retain the chunky, straight-edged proportions that define its full-sized counterpart. However, it will be smaller and lower-riding, featuring a design that is less focused on off-road capabilities and more tailored for everyday road use.
Interestingly, the name “Defender Sport” briefly appeared on Land Rover’s website, suggesting that JLR might use this badge for road-focused models, similar to what they have done with the Discovery Sport and Range Rover Sport.
### Model Transition: A Potential Successor to Discovery Sport
Positioned as a model ’80’ below the full-sized Defender, this new vehicle could potentially replace the aging Discovery Sport, which has been part of JLR’s lineup since 2014 and is currently offered only as a plug-in hybrid.
With its rugged proportions and strong off-road heritage, the baby Defender could also be seen as the spiritual successor to the Freelander, a popular model that was replaced by the Discovery Sport.
### Market Strategy: Sharing Platforms and Expanding Reach
Priced lower than the full-sized Defender while offering similar features and a clear family resemblance, the baby Defender is set to appeal to a broader audience. This approach aims to make the new model a volume player in the global SUV market.
It will share its platform with the next-generation Range Rover Evoque and Velar, all built on JLR’s new EMA (Electric Modular Architecture) platform. This shared foundation will support a range of electric powertrains and technologies.
### Manufacturing Plans: EV Production in Merseyside
Production of the baby Defender will take place at JLR’s Halewood plant in Merseyside, which is currently being upgraded to support electric vehicle manufacturing. Powered by the advanced 800V EMA platform, the vehicle will be equipped with in-house motors and batteries sourced from Tata’s upcoming Somerset plant.
However, it’s worth noting that after unexpected demand shifts, JLR recently announced a scaling back of some of its electric vehicle plans while increasing production of plug-in hybrids.
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With the baby Defender expected to launch by 2027, Land Rover is poised to expand its electric SUV lineup while honoring the legacy of one of its most iconic models. Keep an eye out for more updates as this exciting new vehicle moves closer to production.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/land-rover-s-baby-defender-in-works-could-be-ev-only-model/story
