Jaguar Land Rover is set to revolutionize the off-road SUV segment with the upcoming release of the Defender Sport EV, a smaller and more affordable sibling to the iconic Defender. The 2026 model year saw a facelift for the Defender, but it's clear that this new iteration will be a much bigger upgrade. With its unique style and luxury features, the Defender has always stood out from other premium automakers like BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche.
The Defender Sport EV is expected to retain its upright, boxy design with minor tweaks, including updated front lights and an improved front nose design. The new prototype spotted by AutoExpress features off-road tires, blacked-out lower bumpers, and flared wheel arches, adding to the Defender's rugged look. This attention to detail will be crucial in appealing to customers looking for a luxurious off-road experience.
Unlike its standard counterpart, the electric Sport will be underpinned by Jaguar Land Rover's EMA platform, making it available exclusively as an EV. The new battery pack lies flat on the floor, which should help open up more interior space and provide a comfortable driving experience. This innovative design choice will also enable the Defender Sport EV to offer a unique blend of luxury and off-road capability.
The electric SUV is expected to feature a setup similar to the full-size model, but with larger display screens and a new user interface. Although it will only offer two-row seating, there is a possibility of a sixth seat between the driver and front passenger, which could appeal to families looking for an off-road capable vehicle. This flexibility will be essential in attracting customers who value versatility.
Jaguar Land Rover's EMA platform is expected to be available with battery packs ranging from 70 to 90 kWh, which should provide a range of 300 to 320 miles in the smaller Defender Sport EV. The electric powertrain will also offer precise, instant torque distribution and a lower center of gravity, making it even more capable than an internal combustion engine.
The Defender Sport EV is expected to debut by the end of 2026, with sales beginning in early 2027. This timeline puts pressure on competitors like Jeep, which is launching the Recon EV later this year, and Mercedes-Benz, which offers the G580 with EQ Technology. The electric off-road SUV segment is becoming increasingly crowded, but Jaguar Land Rover's entry could be a game-changer.
The electric Sport will sit below the entry-level standard Defender, with prices expected to start at around £40,000 to £50,000 ($54,000 to $67,500). This pricing strategy aims to make the Defender Sport EV more accessible to customers who want an off-road capable vehicle without breaking the bank. However, it's worth noting that competitors like Jeep and Rivian are already offering similar vehicles at competitive prices.
In the US, the 2026 Jeep Recon EV starts at $65,000, but the electric Defender will also face competition from the Rivian R1S and the GMC Hummer EV in the electric off-roader segment. The introduction of these new models will undoubtedly raise the bar for electric off-road SUVs, making it essential for Jaguar Land Rover to deliver a compelling value proposition.
The success of the Defender Sport EV will depend on its ability to balance luxury features with off-road capability and affordability. If executed correctly, this could be a significant milestone for Jaguar Land Rover, marking its entry into the electric off-road SUV market with style and substance.
The introduction of the Defender Sport EV will be a significant milestone for Jaguar Land Rover, marking its entry into the electric off-road SUV market.
