First thought is good idea as there is a market for it especially in Europe. While a total disaster in the US, the Freelander sold well overseas. Hopefully the execution is as good as the idea.2023 Land Rover Defender 80: Is the British brand set to launch Suzuki Jimny and Ford Bronco-rivalling baby SUV? - Car News
Land Rover has long talked about the idea of creating a ‘family’ of Defender models - and it seems a new baby is due in the near-future. A new, smaller version of the popular off-roader is tipped to launch within the next two years and expected to be known as the Defender 80.www.carsguide.com.au
Exactly! Merc and BMW follow the entry level concept very well. As does Audi.Brand loyalty starts early in life. A reasonably priced, entry level vehicle is a smart move ASSUMING it has decent reliability and some type of buy in. A certified used Disco 2 was mine. The Freelander, LR2 and the baby Disco all failed here in the US, hopefully somebody at JLNA learned something from that.
No doubt the Freelander had a positive impact for them. Always felt though that the Disco introduction was more influential for LR.I have talked with a lot of Europeans who claim the Freelander saved LR. Maybe this is not a bad move for Euro/ROW markets.
Anything JLR stamps "Defender" will sell.