The Freelander 8, a range-extended full-size SUV from the Chery Jaguar Land Rover joint venture, has been seen undergoing road tests in the UAE. This sighting comes shortly after the model began presales in China, signaling the next phase in its rollout.
Freelander 8 Undergoes Road Testing in UAE
Photos of the Freelander 8 in the UAE were shared online by @dxbcarburator on Telegram, showing two pre-production vehicles partially camouflaged. The images reveal both an entry-level variant without a LiDAR sensor on the roof and another model with white bumpers and tailgates.
The Freelander 8 had previously made its debut at the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum in Shanghai. The brand is now focusing its overseas social media presence on markets including the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.
Design and Interior Features
The Freelander 8 is a full-size SUV with dimensions of 5,118 mm (~201.6 inches) in length, 2,050 mm (~80.7 inches) in width, and 1,898 mm (~74.8 inches) in height, riding on a 3,040 mm (~119.7 inches) wheelbase. Its exterior features a blocky body, large rectangular headlights, sturdy bumpers, and signature D-pillars referencing the first-generation Land Rover Freelander.
Interior options include five- and six-seat layouts. The three-row version offers two captain chairs in the second row, equipped with zero-gravity, ventilation, heating, and 16-point massage functions. The dashboard is fitted with a 46.3-inch screen and a 15.6-inch monitor, while additional amenities include a 17.3-inch ceiling-mounted display and a 10-liter fridge.
Technology and Powertrain
The Freelander 8 incorporates a range of Huawei technologies, including a LiDAR-based assisted driving system. As an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV), it is powered by a 1.5-liter range extender and a 60.3 kWh LFP battery, providing an electric range of 310 km (~193 miles) under CLTC conditions.
Performance highlights include a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system delivering 610 kW (818 hp) and 813 Nm of torque. The SUV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and features rear-wheel steering and air suspension.
Pricing and Availability
Presales for the Freelander 8 began in China with a price range of $50,332 (~AUD 70,806) to $68,102 (~AUD 95,804). The model is expected to reach additional global markets following its road testing phase.
Why this matters
The appearance of the Freelander 8 in the UAE highlights the model’s progression from presale to international road testing. Its combination of advanced technology, luxury features, and strong performance specifications positions it as a notable new entry in the full-size SUV segment.
What this means for buyers
Buyers interested in a large SUV with range-extender technology and premium features should monitor the Freelander 8 as it completes testing and approaches wider availability. Its presence in the UAE suggests that more international markets may see the model soon.
Key Specs
- Presale Price (China): $50,332 (~AUD 70,806) to $68,102 (~AUD 95,804)
- Dimensions (L/W/H): 5,118 mm (~201.6 inches) / 2,050 mm (~80.7 inches) / 1,898 mm (~74.8 inches)
- Wheelbase: 3,040 mm (~119.7 inches)
- Battery: 60.3 kWh LFP
- Electric Range (CLTC): 310 km (~193 miles)
- Power (AWD): 610 kW (818 hp)
- Torque: 813 Nm
- 0-100 km/h Acceleration: 4.6 seconds
Source
Images sourced from: carnewschina.com, evfy.in
