These days nearly every new car is being tested out
at the track before launch, and the place to be is the Nurburgring, which has
become sort of a Mecca for test mules and prototypes, whether it’s an
eco-oriented EV or an off-roader.
The next generation of the Land Rover Defender is no
exception despite having the aerodynamics of a (large) brick. Nonetheless, it
seems that the monocoque platform has vastly improved its handling, while the
new engines, that apart from the usual petrol and diesel units might be joined
by mild hybrids and PHEVs, have made it faster.
In spite of the stiffer chassis and crossover-like
architecture, there is still some body roll, as the spy video shared below
reveals, but that’s to be expected about such a vehicle. Hopefully, ditching
the body-on-frame platform hasn’t affected its off-road capability and Land
Rover’s DNA hasn’t been lost when it comes to its most iconic model.
Seeing it officially for the first time with no camo
whatsoever means having to wait a few more months, as it’s set to be unveiled
in September, either at the Frankfurt show or at a standalone event, whereas
customer deliveries will commence early next year.
