Freelander 8 Confirmed For UK: Huge Electric SUV

Forget everything you knew about the old Freelander. The new Freelander 8 isn’t a compact soft-roader; it is a 5.1-metre-long leviathan that physically dwarfs a Land Rover Defender 110.

Following a global reveal of the “Concept 97,” MotorHype can confirm that this massive SUV – born from a joint venture between Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) and Chinese giant Chery – will arrive in the UK by late 2027. However, there is a catch: you cannot call it a Land Rover.

Here is everything you need to know about the biggest, most technologically complex Freelander ever made.

The “Freelander” Brand is Back, But Without the Green Oval

The most confusing aspect of the Freelander 8 is the badge. This is not a Land Rover. Instead, Freelander is launching as a standalone sub-brand, similar to how JLR currently operates Range Rover, Defender, and Discovery.

So why the familiar name? JLR has licensed the Freelander trademark to a joint venture with Chery (the parent company of Omoda and Jaecoo). While the styling and “essence” of the vehicle were designed in the UK by Land Rover designers, the engineering, platform, and production happen in China.

This allows JLR to cash in on SUV nostalgia without diluting the premium price of the Defender range. For buyers, it means you get the look of a rugged British 4×4 with the cutting-edge (and cheaper) hybrid tech from China.

Size & Styling: The Defender’s Bigger, Bolder Brother

Do not let the “Freelander” name fool you into thinking this is a small entry-level car. The Freelander 8 is enormous.

• Length: 5.1 metres (350mm longer than a Defender 110).
• Configuration: 2+2+2 seating for six (captain’s chairs in the second row).
• Key Styling: Chunky wheelarches, a floating black roof, and blocky futuristic headlights.

In the metal, it looks like a sci-fi version of a classic off-roader. One unique quirk for overseas markets (though unlikely for the UK) is that the headlights feature small screens that act as digital message boards for pedestrians.

Powertrain: Why Chery’s Hybrid System is the Star

Under the bonnet, there is no pure V8 or mild-hybrid diesel. Instead, the Freelander 8 rides on a flexible Chery architecture featuring 800-volt technology.

• Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): Uses a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine primarily as a generator for two electric motors. Expect output around 422bhp with a potential electric-only range of up to 91 miles (significantly more than the Defender PHEV’s 30 miles).
• Range Extender & EV: Battery-electric models are possible later, but the range-extender option (a petrol engine charging the battery) is a heavy focus.

Despite being Chinese-engineered, JLR insists the Freelander 8 will be off-road capable. Representatives have confirmed it will feature centre and rear locking differentials and an all-terrain response system, though active anti-roll bars are still unconfirmed.

UK Launch Date, Pricing & Verdict

When can you buy one?
The Freelander 8 will go on sale in the UK in the second half of 2027. It will launch in China later this year, followed by a relentless rollout of a new model every six months.

How much will it cost?
This is the clever part. Because it avoids the expensive UK manufacturing and the premium Land Rover tax, the Freelander 8 is expected to undercut the Defender significantly.

• Land Rover Defender 110 starting price: ~£60,000
• Freelander 8 estimated starting price: £50,000 – £55,000

MotorHype Verdict
The Freelander 8 is a gamble. Purists will hate that it isn’t a “real” Land Rover. However, for families who want the commanding presence of a Defender, the space of a tank, and modern plug-in hybrid efficiency without the £70k price tag, this is a massive win.

If Chery nails the reliability and the off-road calibration, the Freelander 8 won’t just compete with the Defender—it might steal its driveway.

Can’t wait until 2027? While the Freelander 8 is still a few years away, the perfect used SUV could be just around the corner. Head over to our Used Cars page to browse thousands of vehicles listed across the UK. Whether it’s a rugged Land Rover Defender, a family-friendly plug-in hybrid, or something totally unexpected, you might find your next adventure today.