Land Rover’s revived Freelander range will be led by a full-size, tech-focused SUV expected to launch in the second half of 2026, according to reports.

The original Freelander – a compact, entry-level SUV – was produced from 1997 to 2014 before being replaced by the Discovery Sport. Nearly a decade later, the nameplate is set to return through the Chery Jaguar Land Rover (CJLR) joint venture. This 50/50 collaboration between Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) and Chinese automaker Chery was formalised in June 2024 and will spearhead a new line of electric vehicles in China under the Freelander name.

According to Autocar UK, the new Freelander will be built on Chery’s T1X platform – a flexible, steel-based architecture that supports internal combustion, hybrid, and fully electric powertrains. Already used by Chery’s Jaecoo and Omoda brands, the platform will first underpin a plug-in hybrid SUV.

Production of the debut model – an electrified crossover with genuine 4×4 capability – is due to begin in late 2026, with the vehicle launching first in China before expanding to global markets. It will initially be offered with a plug-in hybrid setup, with fully electric and range-extender (REx) versions planned to follow.

Manufacturing will take place at CJLR’s plant in Changshu, China. While the first models are aimed at the Chinese market, the Freelander line-up is expected to go global before the end of the decade. The brand will operate independently from Land Rover’s core line-up.

By positioning Freelander as a standalone, EV-focused marque, JLR aims to expand its electric offerings without diluting the premium image of its established models. The revived Freelander range will not carry the traditional Land Rover badge.

In addition to the vehicle’s development, a new Freelander logo has been revealed (as seen above), marking the brand’s fresh identity in the electric vehicle market.

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