Next Generation Freelander Will Change to Discovery Branding

JaguarJaguarUnited Kingdom, 1922 > present53 models
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Land RoverLand RoverUnited Kingdom, 1978 > present15 models
1742 photos
9 videos
is at an important moment of transition. It is going from a very old-school brand that relied on a tried-and-true method to develop its cars to a cutting edge, technologically robust automaker. Its move to fully aluminum platforms and upcoming turbocharged four-cylinder engines show that perfectly.

For Land Rover, that will also mean a complete shakeup of its model line. The DefenderLand Rover Defender Gen.1United Kingdom, 1983 > present122 versions
206 photos
1 video
will go from a hardcore off-roader to a more stylish truck that can handle on-road driving a little better. It is also planning on dropping the FreelanderLand Rover Freelander Gen.2United Kingdom, 2007 > present65 versions
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name and combining it with the DiscoveryLand Rover Discovery Gen.4United Kingdom, 2009 > present40 versions
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when the new generation comes in 2015.

The Freelander replacement would grow slightly to carry three rows of passengers and carry the Discovery badge. The next Discovery would use the same platform but be slightly larger and more luxurious.

The move would be similar to what Land Rover has done with the Range RoverLand Rover Range Rover (modern) Gen.3 [L405]United Kingdom, 2012 > present13 versions
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name where it has changed to almost a sub-brand with the EvoqueLand Rover Range Rover EvoqueUnited Kingdom, 2011 > present128 versions
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, SportLand Rover Range Rover Sport Gen.2United Kingdom, 2013 > present36 versions
62 photos
and Range Rover all carrying the name.

The current Freelander was introduced in 2006 and is aging, especially compared to the Evoque, which does not cost significantly more. With the decision to give the Defender more style in the next generation, it means that the Freelander has to change to survive.

Source: Automotive News Europe