Brief
Chery and JLR unveil Freelander 8 hybrid SUV ahead of brand relaunch
The new Freelander 8, capable of 460 kW, will debut in the UAE before expanding to Australia, New Zealand and other markets.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Chery and Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) announced the Freelander 8, a plug‑in hybrid SUV delivering up to 460 kW, as part of a plan to relaunch Freelander as a standalone brand for international markets. The vehicle made its international debut in Abu Dhabi on 29 September and was detailed at the 2026 Chery International User Summit in Wuhu, China, on 19 October.
The Middle‑East‑specification pairs a 2.0‑litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 34.12 kWh lithium‑iron‑phosphate battery and dual‑motor all‑wheel drive, achieving 0–100 km/h in 5.8 seconds and an electric‑only range of 110 km. Chery says the total range reaches 886 km. Charging supports 11 kW AC and fast DC that lifts the battery from 20 % to 80 % in 20 minutes.
The first market launch is slated for the United Arab Emirates in the first quarter of 2027, with right‑hand‑drive markets such as Australia and New Zealand expected in a second phase. Availability in South Africa has not been confirmed.
Key facts
- Chery and JLR unveiled the Freelander 8 plug‑in hybrid SUV. (bizcommunity.com)
- The SUV produces up to 460 kW and 662 Nm, accelerating 0–100 km/h in 5.8 seconds. (bizcommunity.com)
- First market launch is planned for the UAE in Q1 2027, with Australia and New Zealand to follow. (bizcommunity.com)
Sources
- [1] bizcommunity.com — originally reported as “Chery, JLR officially relaunch Freelander as hybrid SUV brand”
