Next-gen Land Rover Defender to be unveiled in 2019

KUALA LUMPUR: Land Rover has announced that the next-generation iconic off-roader Defender will be revealed in 2019. The SUV will make its way to North Ameria after a long gap of 22-years since it was discontinued in 1997 citing non-profitability.

Last year, Land Rover had announced to introduce the Defender in April 2018 in the event that would mark 70 years of the company. However, for some reasons, the SUV wasn’t revealed back then.

Land Rover Defender was discontinued in North America since its conversion to North American Specifications (NAS) was regarded as not profitable. The discontinuation, however, made it an iconic vehicle and a favourite among the collectors.

While making the announcement, Kim McCullough, VP Marketing of Jaguar Land Rover in North America said, “There are a handful of automobiles that are beloved around the world and stand for a brand, a country and a distinct way of life. The Land Rover Defender is such a singular vehicle. This announcement is a holiday gift to our Defender fans in North America and a hint of what’s to come in the New Year.”

Talking about features, the new Defender will be coming with all-new interior and exterior design. It will also feature the latest connectivity features and driver assistance system.

The new Defender will be available in EV (pure-electric), PHEV (plug-in hybrid), and MHD (mild-hybrid) powertrains. Under the bonnet, there will be the JLR’s latest turbo-petrol and diesel four-cylinder 2.0-litre engines. Also, for the off-road variant, a straight-six 3.0-litre engine will be provided, perhaps later.

Land Rover Defender will go on sale in the US and Canada in the year 2020.