KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- The Mini Defender is likely going to compete against the upcoming mini G-Wagen.
- It could replace the Discovery Sport globally.
- Reports suggest it will sit on a flexible platform to accommodate both EV and ICE powertrains.
It is no secret that Land Rover is developing a smaller version of the Defender. Thanks to our friends overseas, we now have pictures of the Mini Defender doing the rounds all over the web and on social media. Reports suggest that a full-fledged production version sometime in 2027.
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Land Rover Mini Defender Spotted; Details
While still heavily camouflaged, it is clear that the Mini Defender will retain the familiar design language of the original Defender, featuring the iconic boxy silhouette and upright lines. The profile is hidden by panels, but it does show flush-fitting door handles and relatively simpler 10-spoke alloy rims sitting on what appear to be high-profile tyres.
However, it will ride much lower and will be shorter in height, considering that it will be more road-focused. The lack of any spare wheel mounting on the tailgate, along with the lower number plate positioning further cement the fact. That said, it wouldn't be unrealistic to expect some light off-roading chops, possibly featuring various traction modes.
The newer set of pictures show no exhaust pipes and a closed-off nose, which suggests this will be a fully-electric model. While Land Rover had been known to fully commit to electrification alongside Jaguar, the British car maker has since backtracked on its EV plans slightly. As of 2024, Land Rover said that it will continue to offer ICE, hybrid, and EV options well into the next decade, following the demand in hybrid vehicle sales.
This also means that the mini Defender's EMA platform could possibly be re-engineered to make it flexible for EV, ICE, and hybrid applications. This is also said to be the same platform that will underpin the next-generation Velar and the Evoque. Not a surprising move, considering many other manufacturers have also scaled back on EV plans and are instead moving towards hybrids.
The mini Defender will compete directly against the mini G-Wagen, and according to reports, it will make its global debut sometime in 2027, which should likely be just over a year after the all-electric full-size Defender also comes along. As for an India launch, it could take place within a year after its global debut.
Image Source: Carscoops and Autocar UK
Verdict
Given how iconic the full-size Defender is in the Indian market, introducing the mini Defender would well make sense, as it will make the famous brand even more accessible and open it up to a wider range of buyers.
