Chery Jaguar Land Rover Revives Freelander with First Plug-in Hybrid SUV

The first test vehicle of the all-new Freelander—the debut model under the joint venture brand established by Chery and Jaguar Land Rover—has recently been revealed. The vehicle is set to make its official global debut on March 31. Built on Chery’s self-developed T1X platform (the same “flexible platform” used by the Jaecoo 7), the new SUV features a plug-in hybrid powertrain and is positioned below imported Land Rover models such as the Range Rover and Defender. Initially targeting the Chinese market exclusively, it may expand globally in the future. Design-wise, the vehicle retains the classic Freelander’s boxy proportions and signature square-shaped headlights. Inside, it features a floating central infotainment screen paired with a slim, elongated remote display. Chery will independently manage the sales and operations of this model, which will not be integrated into Jaguar Land Rover’s existing “House of Brands” portfolio. Reportedly, the new Freelander aims to fill the production gap left by the discontinuation of the Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque. Emphasizing a tech-forward driving experience, the vehicle is already confirmed to feature Huawei’s Qiankun intelligent driving solution, CATL batteries, and Qualcomm chips.