Land Rover is preparing to build on the Defender’s legacy with a new, more compact SUV that trades traditional power for a fully electric setup. Rumored to wear the Defender Sport badge, the model has been caught testing in Europe’s summer heat, showing off a boxy, upright stance that echoes its larger sibling.

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We first caught a prototype example of the SUV last April, but these latest images give a clearer sense of its shape and detailing. Up front, the design leans more toward the Range Rover side of the family tree, with slim horizontal LED headlights, a closed-off grille, a sturdy bumper, and a flat hood that emphasize its modern yet purposeful look.

Distinctive Proportions

The profile features the characteristic curved shoulders of the Defender leading to an upright tail. The flat roof and the boxy rear end will certainly help with practicality, especially when compared to sleeker crossovers. It will also help the Defender Sport distinguish itself from the sea of similarly-sized SUVs that have flooded the market.

Other highlights include the flush door handles and the five-spoke alloy wheels that look quite large for the size of the vehicle, nicely filling up the wheel arches. Expect a wraparound greenhouse and and a floating roof with bi-tone options. The company could also offer a range of optional accessories, making the baby Defender more suitable for all kinds of adventures.

SH Proshots

Electric Underpinnings

The camouflage wrap doesn’t have any openings for cooling intakes up front and there’s no visible exhaust pipe at the back. This all but confirms earlier rumors about a zero emission powertrain. It will most likely comprise dual electric motors with advanced AWD capabilities in order to stay true to Land Rover’s off-road heritage.

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The Defender Sport is expected to ride on JLR’s EMA platform and feature an 800-volt electrical architecture and 350 kW fast-charging capabilities. Land Rover is planning on building its future electric SUVs at the Halewood plant in England, sourcing battery packs from its Somerset facility.

The new member of the Defender family is expected to hit the roads in 2027, but could be unveiled towards the end of 2026. Its biggest rival will be the upcoming baby G-Class by Mercedes-Benz, which is also expected to arrive in 2027.

Both SUVs will feature rugged styling, compact footprints, and EV tech, although the Mercedes might also offer a hybrid option following the sales flop of the electric G-Wagen.