2020 Land Rover Defender Teased, Could Debut Next Year

Land Rover is getting into the holiday spirit by releasing a new teaser image of the 2020 Defender.

Showing the model being unloaded from a trailer, the teaser says “Do not unwrap until 2019.” This suggests the Defender will be unveiled next year, but Land Rover also hinted additional information will be released on December 27th.

While the teaser image is surprisingly low resolution, that isn’t much of a problem as spy photographers have already caught the three- and five-door variants undergoing testing. Those photos show the model will have a bit of a resemblance to the LR3, while also being unmistakable as a Defender.

In terms of styling, the Defender has a squared off front fascia with a small grille that features a horizontal bar. Further below, we can see a rounded bumper and mesh screens which likely hide large air intakes.

Moving further back, the model has pronounced fender flares and slab-sided bodywork. Fans will also notice front fender vents, a rakish windscreen and a relatively flat roof.

While the two variants have an identical front fascia, everything changes aft of the front doors. The short wheelbase model, which could revive the Defender 90 moniker, eschews rear doors. The long-wheelbase variant, known as the Defender 110, has short rear doors and a compact quarter glass.

Despite this styling differences, both variants have a nearly vertical tailgate which swings to the side. It is opened by a vertical door handle and some prototypes feature a rear-mounted spare tire.

The Defender will ride on the company’s new Modular Longitudinal Architecture (MLA) which is slated to be lighter and stiffer than the previous platform. The architecture has been designed to underpin an assortment of different models including those with internal combustion engines, mild- and plug-in hybrid powertrains as well as electric powertrains.

Speaking of engines, the Defender is expected to be offered with an assortment of different options including an entry-level turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder which is available in both petrol and diesel guise. There should also be petrol and diesel six-cylinder engines, but details remain a closely guarded secret.

spy photo credits: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien for Carscoops