Land Rover officially announced that a version of the LRX concept was heading to production last week, but fell short on specific details. However, Leftlane recently got the opportunity to speak with Land Rover design chief Gerry McGovern, shedding some light on the LRX program.
Although the production LRX will be branded under the Range Rover nameplate, it will actually share a platform with the LR2. That means the production LRX will have a front-wheel drive bias, but expect a four-wheel drive system worthy of the Land Rover badge.
Despite its ties with the LR2, the production LRX will feature a unique – and highly efficient – drivetrain. Although we couldn’t get McGovern to give up the goods on the new powerplant, we fully expect some type of forced induction, and possibly as few as four-cylinders.
As far as looks go, McGovern says the production LRX will be a near carbon copy of the LRX concept. As the latest rendering indicates, the production LRX will adopt the concept’s aggressing stance, modern front end, upward-sweeping beltline and coupe-like roofline.
Inside, look for the LRX to sport a thoroughly luxurious interior, keeping in line with its Range Rover nameplate.
Although the LRX seems to fill the role of Land Rover ’s entry-level vehicle, it will actually be targeted at Range Rover buyers that are looking to downsize but aren’t willing to compromise on luxury. As such, look for the LRX to carry a premium over the LR2, despite its smaller size.
No word on when the production LRX will make its officially debut, but expect to see the new luxury ‘ute by mid-2010.
