Land Rover is wasting no time in preparing a production version of its LRX concept, with a road-going version of the ‘ute tipped for a mid-2010 reveal. The LRX concept made its debut at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show and should make the transition to production car by 2011.
According to Autocar, Land Rover has plans to unveil the production version of the LRX on June 17th, 2010 – a date that happens to mark the 40th anniversary of the launch of the Land Rover Range Rover. Just as the first Range Rover sparked a bold, new direction for Land Rover, the British automaker is hopeful the smaller, more efficient LRX will also take the marque in a new direction.
Land Rover’s LRX program is believed to be progressing quickly, thanks in large part to a £27 million grant from the British government. Combined with the added dedication from Tata Motors – Land Rovers parent company – the LRX shouldn’t have a problem meeting the June 2010 deadline.
Although details of the LRX program remain scarce, the smaller SUV will likely be built on the Freelander’s front-wheel drive platform. A hybrid system is also in the works for the LRX. Unlike conventional hybrid systems, the LRX’s will rely on the car’s engine to drive the front wheels and an electric motor to power the rear wheels.
Production of the 2012 LRX will begin in early to mid-2011, with sales set to kick off soon after.
08/26, 4:54 PM
posted by:
DenverGuy217
This is one LR I’ve really been looking forward to seeing (if it stays close to the concept design and isn’t overpriced like the rest of their models)
08/26, 4:57 PM
posted by:
Genesis101
Denver
most likely it will be overpriced like the rest of ‘em lol. but whats the purpose of a 2 door land rover?
08/26, 5:13 PM
posted by:
ChuckTown86
This may be a stretch, but seeing how you can get a VW CC for half the price of a Merc CLS, could it be possible to see the return of a 2-door 4Runner for half the price of THIS? I think that this is the most anticipated LR to date and would love to see it in person, but like most of the LR line-up will it likely be overpriced. Great vehicle otherwise and hope it stays true to concept form for design sake.
08/26, 5:55 PM
posted by:
eff1Fifty
I’m guessing that it’ll be way overpriced, especially since LR has said they will be moving their products even higher up in the luxury market..
They will be producing both 2 and 4 door versions of the LRX
08/26, 6:00 PM
posted by:
DenverGuy217
Genesis – Years ago I had a 2 door Pathfinder which got traded for a 4 door. I immediately noticed the difference in handling esp when going off-roading as well as the extra length and weight. Since we have another vehicle with 4 doors, I don’t need one on my next SUV. I’d prefer something shorter like this or the future small Hummer, but not as basic and weak-engined as a Wrangler, or as fat as an FJ.
A 2-door 4Runner would be excellent too.
08/26, 6:11 PM
posted by:
A4
A Defender on American soil would be even better.
08/26, 7:30 PM
posted by:
DrFill
This will be hot!
Will sell big in my ‘hood
Might have to pick one up
DrFill
08/26, 8:39 PM
posted by:
Borat
I wonder if you get free Nano with each LRX
08/26, 10:21 PM
posted by:
tyler_is_aero_tt
That’s one of the best looking SUV’s I have ever seen! If Land Rover includes reliability in this vehicle it’s a definite winner.
08/27, 2:45 PM
posted by:
eff1Fifty
Lol Borat! Free keychain
08/27, 4:15 PM
posted by:
gugy
This is indeed a cool car, my only issues with Land Rover are, reliability, fuel consumption and very small and cramped interiors for tall people. If they overcome all of this I will consider, but I am not holding my breath at all.