Land Rover appears to be closing in on the launch of a smaller Defender model, with speculation now centring on what the new vehicle will actually be called. Earlier rumours suggested the newcomer might carry the "Defender Sport" badge, but that now looks unlikely. Instead, reports indicate the brand will stick with its established naming convention of using numbers rather than names.

The current Defender line-up already spans the Defender 90, Defender 110 and Defender 130, with the figures loosely reflecting the size and wheelbase of each model. Following that logic, the next and smallest addition to the range is widely expected to be named the Defender 70, slotting in beneath the existing trio as the compact entry point to the family.

Beyond the naming question, more details have emerged about the technical foundations of the new model. It is set to be built on a fresh platform developed specifically for Land Rover, one that will also serve as the basis for the next-generation Range Rover Evoque and a new model referred to as the Range Rover GT. This shared architecture marks a significant shift for the brand, as it aims to maximise efficiency and flexibility across several different vehicles built on common underpinnings.

Interestingly, the platform's development history reveals a notable change in direction. It was originally conceived purely as an electric vehicle architecture, designed from the outset to support all-electric powertrains. However, engineers have since gone back and reworked the platform so that it can also accommodate hybrid power, broadening its appeal to buyers who may not yet be ready to commit to a fully electric Defender. This suggests Land Rover is hedging its bets, offering customers a choice of electrified options rather than pushing straight to battery-only propulsion for this new, smaller 4x4.

Adding further versatility to the line-up, there are also plans for a commercial variant of the smaller Defender. This would open up the model to fleet buyers and tradespeople who want the rugged capability and go-anywhere image of the Defender badge, but in a more compact, work-ready form.

While official confirmation from Land Rover is still awaited, the pieces now appear to be falling into place for a new addition to one of its most popular model families. With its blend of hybrid and electric power, shared underpinnings with upcoming Range Rover models, and a likely commercial version, the Defender 70 looks set to broaden the Defender range considerably once it eventually breaks cover.

Source: CompleteCar.ie

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