Chery-JLR has revealed the first production model under the Freelander brand. Called the Freelander 8, it is based on the Concept 97 revealed earlier this month. The SUV will be the first of six models to launch under the Freelander brand over the next 5 years.
- Expected to get EV, PHEV and range-extender hybrid powertrains
- Interior features a windscreen-length digital driver's display
- China launch expected in H2 2026, global rollout to happen after
Chery-JLR Freelander 8: All you need to know
Exterior retains many design elements from the concept 97
The Freelander 8’s design doesn't shy away from that of the Concept 97. It also pays homage to the original Freelander by using its triangular glass motif as a design element all over the exterior. While the Concept 97 had a blanked-off front, the Freelander 8 is studded with rectangular elements and air vents on the bumper. The side profile of the Freelander 8 may look unchanged at first glance, but unlike its concept version, which had suicide doors, the Freelander 8 gets regular opening doors. The large dual-tone alloy wheel designs are carried over from the concept. Additionally, you also get ‘Freelander’ branding on the grille and tailgate.
Interior gets an end-to-end digital driver's display
While official images of the Freelander 8’s interior have not been revealed, Chery-JLR did confirm that it gets a dash-integrated Mini LED screen, as seen on the concept. This windshield-length screen displays real-time vehicle status, road conditions, weather and navigation data. Additionally, the carmaker has said that it gets “elevated” front-row seats that offer a “commanding” view of the road and “zero-gravity” rear seats in the second row, which suggests high reclining angles for the seats. Expect the Freelander 8 to come with a 6-seat configuration.
Sits on a new platform, gets Huawei-powered ADAS
The Freelander 8 is developed on a dedicated platform that can accommodate electric, plug-in hybrid and range-extender powertrains. While specifications have not been revealed, electric versions would sit on an 800V architecture. ADAS duties will be handled by a Huawei-developed system and a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor. On-board electrical systems will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8397 chip, and there will also be a multi-terrain management system.
While no official launch date has been confirmed, the Freelander 8 could likely arrive in the second half of 2026. It will be introduced in China first, with a global rollout much later.
Uday Singh
Dhruv Dhaka
