Just a few weeks after the 97 concept kicked up a storm in China, the production version is ready to take the spotlight.
The Freelander 8, the first product of a collaboration between Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) and Chery, has made its debut at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show. But be warned, the famous name is not just returning as a Land Rover model, but as a standalone brand focused on new energy vehicles. This means that only plug-in hybrids, pure electric vehicles and range extender models will be launched under this name.
The Freelander 8 is based on a flexible platform that hosts all the aforementioned drive types, and is packaged in a boxy body with clear references to the original. The most noticeable homage to the first generation from the late nineties is the rear pillar with a triangular glass, while the angular headlights cleverly hint at its roots. With a length of 5,1 meters, it is an imposing SUV that fits exactly between the Defender 110 and 130 in terms of dimensions. The only thing that is somewhat disappointing is the rear part without a spare wheel, which would emphasize the off-road DNA of the parent brand.
The exterior reveals modern technological priorities; the closed grille with the embossed Freelander inscription houses the LiDAR sensor, which has become a mandatory accessory for advanced assistance systems in the Chinese market. Interestingly, the production model has lost the fully flush door handles compared to the concept. Due to new safety regulations in China, they had to be replaced with a semi-closed system, similar to what BMW had to do with the iX3 and i3 models. The concept’s “suicide” doors have also (expectedly) been replaced by classic ones with a B-pillar.
Under the skin of the Freelander 8, there are three rows of seats and powerful CATL batteries with support for ultra-fast charging with a power of up to 350 kW. Air suspension and an electronic rear differential lock will ensure comfort and off-road sovereignty. Although production will take place in China, the brand will not limit itself to the local market, as it also plans to sell in Europe and elsewhere. This is only the first of six models that it plans to launch over the next five years – and as current trends dictate, all of them will be SUVs.
