Jaguar Land Rover CEO PB Balaji confirmed that a new entry-level SUV, often referred to as 'Defender Sport' or 'Defender 80', will enter production in 2027. The vehicle will be the first new model launched under the Defender brand following its elevation to an independent status alongside Range Rover and Discovery.
The new SUV will be built on the EMA platform, which is designed to prioritize electric powertrains. While the company is developing both hybrid and fully electric versions, only the pure electric model is scheduled to be market-ready by the end of 2027. The vehicle is expected to measure slightly over 4.5 meters in length.
To accommodate the production of the Range Rover GT, which is set to begin early next year, the Discovery Sport will be discontinued in the coming weeks. Additionally, the Range Rover Evoque is scheduled to be phased out later next year, with the new entry-level Defender model slated to replace it in the lineup.
The company is currently developing a product strategy for the Defender brand spanning the next 7 to 10 years. While the new model is designed to maintain the brand's reputation for durability, its platform and battery placement will result in off-road capabilities that differ from the current full-size Defender models.
