A “Baby Defender” Is In The Works

Land Rover’s upcoming compact electric 4×4, popularly presumed as the “Baby Defender,” has been spotted during road tests. This smaller version of the iconic Defender is set to take on the Mercedes “Little G” in the compact off-roading SUV segment.

Compact Yet Rugged Design

The Baby Defender retains the rugged, boxy look of its larger sibling. Despite its “mini” moniker, it still retains a good size and road presence, with an overall footprint similar to the Toyota Fortuner. It features a flat, upright front nose, rectangular lighting components, large alloy wheels with a blacked-out finish, and flush-fitting door handles.

Off-Roading Capabilities

While the Baby Defender is designed with a more road-focused approach, it will still uphold the Land Rover legacy with excellent off-road capabilities. Land Rover is also expected to launch some off-road-oriented accessories, such as off-road tires, roof racks, and protective cladding for rugged use.

Platform and Powertrain

The Baby Defender will use the same EMA platform, which will also support next-gen Range Rover Evoque, Velar, and Land Rover Discovery Sport. It’s designed to accommodate an 800V charging architecture, ensuring quick recharges. The battery packs will be slimmer, enhancing cabin space and offering a raised ride height, making the Baby Defender capable of handling both urban roads and outdoor terrain with ease.

Production and Competition

The Baby Defender will be produced at Land Rover’s Merseyside plant, while the batteries will be manufactured in Somerset. It is expected to help generate large sales volumes, especially in the UK. It will compete with Mercedes’ upcoming compact SUV, often referred to as the “Little G,” in the growing market for compact luxury off-roaders.

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