The Land Rover Defender is a sought-after vehicle for off-road adventurers. With its durable boxy frame and off-road prowess, it has been the go-to choice for wilderness excursions for nearly four decades. Throughout the history of the Defender, Land Rover has taken a predominantly conservative approach with its design. However, the automaker looks to go in a new direction for the next-generation Defender by offering an ultra-luxurious model.

The success of the current-generation Defender is due to its higher level of luxury

The current-generation Land Rover Defender is a huge success. The demand is so high that Land Rover hasn’t been able to keep up with the production of the Defender. One of the reasons for the success of the current-generation Land Rover is that it is more luxurious than earlier models. 

What are the changes for the next-generation Land Rover Defender?

Realizing the success of the luxurious current-generation Defender, Land Rover aims to make the next-generation Defender even more luxurious. This includes an extravagant range-topping model. Instead of the typical leather and wood that you find in Defender models, it will have finishes and colors that are more grandiose, with the use of unique materials and a weathered appearance.

The new range-topping Defender model will also feature the new MLA platform. The MLA platform is a flexible architecture that Land Rover also plans on using for future Discovery, Range Rover Velar, and Range Rover Sport models. 

For eco-minded SUV shoppers, the plan for the MLA platform is good news. The MLA platform is best suited for electrified vehicles, whether it be an all-electric, a plug-in hybrid, or a mild hybrid. Land Rover is rumored to have plans for an all-electric Defender. The news of the MLA platform is more evidence that this will be a reality in the near future. Also, another strength of the MLA platform is that it offers an excellent blend of off-road prowess and superb on-road driving dynamics.

Land Rover may create a Defender nameplate with a lineup of different models. The ultra-luxurious model could be one of them. Also, Land Rover may release a pickup truck version of the Defender. Additionally, by the end of next year, Land Rover plans to release a three-row Defender model. It is longer, offers more interior space, and can seat up to eight people.

The next-generation Land Rover Defender affects the plans for the Discovery

A significant challenge for Land Rover with regards to creating an expanded lineup of Defender models is to not have it intrude too much on the sales of the Discovery. This has long been an issue for the two SUV models. 

To achieve this will require a delicate balancing act for Land Rover. It may require Land Rover to make a more unique and distinctive Discovery model. Land Rover may also need to create a unique luxury brand of Defender models that are entirely separate from the Land Rover Range Rover models.