Land Rover is getting into the holiday spirit by
releasing a new teaser image of the 2020 Defender. Showing the model being unloaded
from a trailer, the teaser says “Do not unwrap until 2019.” This suggests the
Defender will be unveiled next year, but Land Rover also hinted additional
information will be released on December 27th.
While the teaser image is surprisingly low
resolution, that isn’t much of a problem as spy photographers have already
caught the three- and five-door variants undergoing testing. Those photos show
the model will have a bit of a resemblance to the LR3, while also being
unmistakable as a Defender.
In terms of styling, the Defender has a squared off
front fascia with a small grille that features a horizontal bar. Further below,
we can see a rounded bumper and mesh screens which likely hide large air
intakes. Moving further back, the model has pronounced fender flares and
slab-sided bodywork. Fans will also notice front fender vents, a rakish
windscreen and a relatively flat roof.
While the two variants have an identical front
fascia, everything changes aft of the front doors. The short wheelbase model,
which could revive the Defender 90 moniker, eschews rear doors. The
long-wheelbase variant, known as the Defender 110, has short rear doors and a
compact quarter glass.
Both variants have
a nearly vertical tailgate which swings to the side. It is opened by a vertical
door handle and some prototypes feature a rear-mounted spare tire. The Defender will ride on the
company’s new Modular Longitudinal Architecture (MLA) which is slated to be
lighter and stiffer than the previous platform. The architecture has been
designed to underpin an assortment of different models including those with
internal combustion engines, mild- and plug-in hybrid powertrains as well as
electric powertrains.
Speaking of engines, the Defender is expected to be
offered with an assortment of different options including an entry-level
turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder which is available in both petrol and
diesel guise. There should also be petrol and diesel six-cylinder engines, but
details remain a closely guarded secret.
