On June 15, 2026, Freelander, the luxury new energy vehicle brand formed by Chery and Jaguar Land Rover, released the first official images of its Freelander 8 First Edition. This high-end off-road NEV SUV is set to enter the market in the second half of 2026, targeting buyers in China, the Middle East, and Europe.
Design and Dimensions
The Freelander 8 First Edition stands out with its exclusive ‘Flowing Silver’ matte finish, protected by a nano-ceramic varnish. The SUV measures 5,118 mm (or 5,185 mm) in length (~201.6 or ~204.2 inches), 2,050 mm (~80.7 inches) in width, and 1,898 mm (~74.8 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 3,040 mm (~119.7 inches).
Inside, the Freelander 8 adopts a 2+2+2 six-seat configuration, offering flexibility for families or groups. An optional towing hitch supports up to 2,000 kg (~4,409 lbs), enhancing its utility for off-road and adventure use.
Technology and Performance
The Freelander 8 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8397 chip, which delivers significant performance improvements over the previous 8295 model—offering three times the CPU and GPU power, and twelve times the NPU capability. Standard features include Huawei’s Qiankun ADS system and a 896-line LiDAR for advanced driver assistance.
Under the hood, the Freelander 8 uses a range-extended hybrid system with Chery’s SQRH4J15 1.5T engine, producing 115 kW (154 hp). The 60.331 kWh battery, developed with CATL, enables a pure electric range of 221 km (~137 miles). For off-road capability, the vehicle is equipped with the i-ATS intelligent all-terrain system, front mechanical differential locks, rear e-LSD, and a closed-loop dual-chamber air suspension.
Market Position and Pricing
As the first model from the Chery and Jaguar Land Rover ‘Joint Venture 3.0’ initiative, the Freelander 8 is positioned in the luxury NEV SUV segment. The brand plans to launch six models over the next five years, with a focus on China, the Middle East, and Europe.
The Freelander 8 is priced in the $44,237 (~AUD 62,831) segment, placing it alongside competitors such as the Li Auto L8 and Aito M7.
Range Rover Evoque Pricing Trends in China
Meanwhile, the internal combustion engine Range Rover Evoque is experiencing significant price reductions in China. The official guide price for the Evoque is $63,376 (~AUD 90,016), but dealership inventory clearance has led to a base price of $26,395 (~AUD 37,489) with a minimum down payment, or $27,279 (~AUD 38,746) for full payment. The total on-road price is about $31,261 (~AUD 44,401).
In the used market, three-year-old Evoque models with 20,000 to 30,000 km (~12,400 to ~18,600 miles) are typically listed between $23,298 (~AUD 33,091) and $26,247 (~AUD 37,280), while some near-new, zero-mileage vehicles are priced at $29,196 (~AUD 41,469).
Why this matters
The Freelander 8 represents a significant collaboration between Chery and Jaguar Land Rover, introducing a new luxury NEV SUV with advanced technology and off-road capabilities. Its launch signals the growing importance of joint ventures in the evolving NEV market, especially as brands seek to expand their presence in China and beyond.
The aggressive pricing of the Range Rover Evoque in China also highlights shifting market dynamics, with new models and technologies influencing both new and used vehicle pricing.
What this means for buyers
Buyers interested in high-end NEV SUVs will soon have a new option with the Freelander 8, which combines luxury, advanced technology, and off-road features. Those considering a Range Rover Evoque in China may find attractive deals due to current price reductions, but should also compare the latest NEV offerings for the best value and technology.
Key Specs
- Length: 5,118 mm or 5,185 mm (~201.6 or ~204.2 inches)
- Width: 2,050 mm (~80.7 inches)
- Height: 1,898 mm (~74.8 inches)
- Wheelbase: 3,040 mm (~119.7 inches)
- Seating: 2+2+2 six-seat layout
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 kg (~4,409 lbs)
- Battery Capacity: 60.331 kWh
- Pure Electric Range: 221 km (~137 miles)
Source
Images sourced from: cnevpost.com, autoblog.com, electrek.co
