Land Rover is developing its smallest Defender yet, known internally as the “Baby Defender” or Defender Sport. This new compact SUV is set to arrive first as a fully electric model in mid-2027, followed by hybrid versions in 2028. Recent spy photos show a prototype near the company’s Nürburgring facility, revealing much of the SUV’s design and confirming key features.
Compact Defender Echoes Its Larger Sibling
The prototype bears a striking resemblance to the current larger Defender models but on a noticeably smaller scale. At about 4.6 metres long, it fits into a market segment similar to SUVs like the Skoda Kodiaq and Dacia Bigster, though positioned as a premium offering.
Despite its reduced size, Land Rover appears committed to retaining the Defender family’s rugged off-road capability. The vehicle features very short front and rear overhangs, which help maintain good approach and departure angles for off-roading. The classic boxy silhouette and strong visual cues remain intact, underscoring Land Rover’s intention to keep the Defender’s signature look, even in its more urban-focused compact version.
New Details Highlight Electric Focus
The spy images reveal a notable new element at the rear: instead of a traditional rear-mounted spare wheel, the prototype has a box attached to the tailgate. This box is designed to store the electric charging cables, marking a clear signal of the vehicle’s electric nature.
Land Rover has confirmed the new Defender Sport uses twin electric motors with all-wheel drive and an 800-volt electrical system. It will have powerful lithium-ion (NMC) batteries that offer at least 500 kilometres of range under the WLTP standard. The system supports rapid charging to 80% capacity in just over 18 minutes.
Electric Now, Hybrid Later
Initially, the new compact Defender will launch as a pure electric vehicle. The plan includes adding hybrid versions the following year, in 2028. Land Rover’s approach mirrors that of Mercedes, prioritizing electric models before releasing hybrid variants.
This change in strategy reflects Land Rover’s recognition that customers are transitioning to electric vehicles more slowly than expected. Offering hybrid options later ensures the brand can cater to those not yet ready to go fully electric.
Filling a Decade-Long Gap in Land Rover’s Lineup
The Defender Sport will replace two SUVs recently discontinued by Land Rover: the Freelander, dropped in 2014, and the Discovery Sport. It effectively fills the void left in the brand’s smaller SUV sector, giving buyers a more compact option without losing the off-road character for which Land Rover is known.
The final production version could still change, but these development prototypes provide a clear preview of Land Rover’s push into smaller, electrified vehicles built around the Defender name.
More details are expected closer to the Defender Sport’s launch in 2027.
Source: motor.es