Defender SUV Returns for 2020 to Defend ‘Land Rover Dynasty’
Despite being the automaker’s longest-selling nameplate in Europe, Land Rover discontinued the U.S. version of its rugged Defender in 1997 after a short run — but the long-awaited return of the automaker’s iconic SUV is around the corner. The 2020 Defender will be unveiled in September at the International Motor Show Germany in Frankfurt and the automaker has some lofty aspirations for its new Defender, saying the SUV “completes the Land Rover dynasty.”
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So far, we’ve only been given camouflaged glimpses of the boxy SUV, and although today’s newest tease lacks the usual black-and-white body wrapping, mud takes its place. Details are still slim, but based on previous teaser images, we know that the Defender retains the heritage model’s squared-off silhouette and prominent rear spare tire; it’s tall but narrow, with tight overhangs at both axles.
Before its reveal in Germany, the Defender will complete a grueling road trip, starting in the canyons of the Valley of the Castles in Kazakhstan. It meets the press on Sept. 10, and it will go on sale in 2020.
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Hellbent on finding a journalism job after earning an English degree from DePaul University, I stumbled into the automotive industry in 2003 — much to the delight of my Corvette-obsessed dad. After working as an editor at Consumer Guide Automotive for several years, I joined Cars.com in 2011 and am currently an expert reviewer, certified car-seat technician and mom of three. I wear a lot of hats — many of them while driving a minivan. My first car was a 1994 Mercury Tracer, and I currently drive a 2012 Mazda5.
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