If you’re a fan of the rough-and-tumble Land Rover Defender, you may want to prepare yourself as the next version may go “soft” as a standard “crossover”.
According to British magazine Autocar, a replacement for the sexagenarian Defender is being delayed until a decision is made regarding its manufacture and production. Although parent company Tata has invested to build a new Defender by 2014, Defender faithful are fighting to ensure the model retains a prominent place in the lineup. The introduction of the front-wheel-drive Evoque was a departure from the brand known for go-anywhere utility vehicles.
In April, Automobile Magazine hinted that the T5 platform, which underpins the larger LR4 and Range Rover, might not be the best choice. European editor Georg Kacher suggested the new model “come down in price and go up in volume” and “introduce more on-road-focused, comfort-oriented, and user-friendly values to support the traditional hardcore off-road magic.”
In June, it was suggested that “Project Icon,” the codename for the next Defender, might take a different approach. Three options for a future Defender now existed: to employ a car-based platform, similar to the one used on the current LR2; to find a new partner for manufacturing and distribution; or building a rugged version for farmers, and a “chic” version for fashionistas.
via Autocar courtesy of Automobile Magazine Staff
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