The beloved Freelander SUV is set to make a surprising comeback in 2026, reborn as a new plug-in hybrid brand under a unique partnership between JLR and China’s Chery.
A Classic Returns, Reimagined
The Land Rover Freelander, a popular SUV, ceased production back in 2014, with the Discovery Sport stepping in as its replacement. For years, the Freelander name lay dormant, but now it’s making an unexpected return.
However, this isn’t just a simple relaunch. The Freelander is being revived as an entirely new brand, operating distinctly from JLR’s current luxury lineup (Range Rover, Defender, Discovery, Jaguar) and Chery’s existing models. JLR has even unveiled a new logo for the brand, signaling its fresh identity.
The JLR-Chery Alliance
This ambitious comeback is powered by a long-standing joint venture between JLR and Chery, which began in 2012 with the establishment of a manufacturing facility in China. This partnership has already seen Chery produce various JLR models for the Chinese market, including the Land Rover Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque.
This collaboration highlights a strategic move for JLR, leveraging Chery’s expertise in platforms and manufacturing to expand its footprint, particularly in the crucial Chinese market, and globally in the future.
Under the Hood: The Platform Powering the Future
The upcoming Freelander models will be built on Chery’s modular T1X platform. This flexible architecture is quite versatile, capable of supporting vehicles ranging in size from compact SUVs like the Mahindra XUV400 to larger luxury vehicles such as the Range Rover Velar.
JLR China boss Qing Pan confirmed that Chery will develop this platform in-house, ensuring a robust foundation for the new vehicles. Interestingly, the styling for these new Freelander models will be overseen by McGovern, a designer with a history of working on previous Freelander designs, ensuring a connection to its heritage.
First Look: The Pioneer PHEV
The very first model to emerge from the revived Freelander brand will be a plug-in hybrid SUV. It’s described as a “tech-led, full-size SUV” that will blend a chunky design with a sleek, Porsche Macan-style coupe shape.
This inaugural model aims to “echo the original spirit of Freelander” while being updated to appeal specifically to “discerning, technologically savvy Chinese consumers.” While it will debut in China through dedicated Chery-run dealerships, there are clear plans for future international expansion.
- The Freelander brand is returning in 2026, separate from JLR’s main brands and Chery’s lineup.
- The first new Freelander vehicle will be a plug-in hybrid SUV.
- It will be built on Chery’s flexible T1X platform.
- The new models will target tech-savvy consumers, initially launching in China.
This revival marks a significant strategic shift for JLR, embracing new partnerships and electrified powertrains to bring a familiar name back to the global automotive stage.
