The Freelander is back. The iconic British 4x4 nameplate, which defined two generations of Land Rover vehicles built between 1997 and 2015, has been revived by JLR's Chinese partner Chery, with significant assistance from the Indian-owned British firm. Chery and JLR have operated a joint venture in China since 2012, producing models like the Range Rover Evoque and Discovery Sport. Now, this partnership is resurrecting the Freelander brand with a lineup of six models expected by the end of the decade, repositioning it as a "British premium intelligent all-terrain brand."
The Freelander 8: First Model Unveiled
The first new Freelander, named the Freelander 8, is a 5.1-metre-long plug-in hybrid SUV that clearly borrows Land Rover design cues. The design was handled by JLR's team, led by Briton Philip Simmons. The bold front end features interlocking headlights reminiscent of the Defender, while the rear three-quarter view and triangular side window echo the original three-door Freelander. This triangular motif also appears in the new Freelander logo, reinforcing its heritage.
Chery's Role and Global Ambitions
Chery, founded in 1997, is a Chinese automotive giant that produced 2.8 million vehicles in 2025, making it China's largest vehicle exporter with 1.3 million overseas sales. Its international brands include Omoda and Jaecoo, which have gained traction in the UK. At the launch in Wuhu, Freelander International CEO Lucia Mao described the brand's mission as "reshaping British heritage through intelligent innovation, for boundless journeys on any terrain." The Freelander 8 will initially launch in Middle Eastern markets, with left-hand drive, right-hand drive, and European versions planned. UK dealers at the event expressed interest, suggesting a potential return to its spiritual homeland.
Design and Technology
While JLR designed the Freelander 8, Chery engineered it and will build it at their Chinese factory. The interior features a large central touchscreen and a full-width digital screen similar to BMW's Panoramic iDrive. The vehicle boasts the "world's first intelligent all-terrain system," with nine terrain modes, a virtual centre differential lock, rear electronic limited slip differential, and dual chamber air suspension. It also offers Level Two Plus ADAS and Advanced Valet Parking Driver for self-driving capabilities.
Powertrain and Development
The plug-in hybrid system uses a 2-litre petrol engine as a range extender, charging a battery that powers the electric motors. Over 1,000 test vehicles will undergo global development, including in Northern Europe and Australia. A second, slightly smaller Freelander model (4.9 metres) was also previewed, and four more SUVs are expected, all built at the Chery JLR plant in Changshu, China, where over $1.5 billion has been invested.
