Freelander confirmed for New Zealand launch in 2027
Words: Kyle Cassidy
Freelander is heading to New Zealand in 2027, with the familiar name becoming a standalone premium SUV brand backed by Chery and Jaguar Land Rover.
Australia and New Zealand have been identified as priority right-hand-drive markets for the new venture. The announcement centres on the flagship Freelander 8, a large SUV combining JLR-led design with Chery’s electrified technology.
There’s still plenty to learn about the local offering. New Zealand pricing, specifications and a firm arrival date haven’t been detailed.
At more than 5.1 metres long, the Freelander 8 is aimed at the large end of the premium SUV market. Five- and six-seat configurations are offered, although the announcement doesn’t specify which versions will reach New Zealand.
In China-market form, the Freelander 8 is a range-extended electric rather than a pure EV, with a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder acting solely as a generator. A 60.3kWh CATL battery delivers a claimed 310km of electric running on China’s CLTC cycle, and the 800-volt architecture supports a 6C charging rate, taking the battery from 20 to 80 per cent in a claimed 12 minutes.
Dual motors produce a combined 610kW and 813Nm, good for 0-100km/h in 4.6 seconds.
Freelander says it will target buyers looking for family comfort and all-terrain ability, positioning the brand against established European and Japanese premium SUVs. Local powertrain, battery and range details weren’t part of the ANZ announcement.
The operation will be led by Kym Mellow, appointed head of Freelander Australia & New Zealand following executive roles with Inchcape Australasia and Mazda Australia. His responsibilities include establishing the brand, developing its dealer network and overseeing sales, product and aftersales operations.
“FREELANDER brings together JLR’s British design and all-terrain heritage with the best of Chery’s technology, scale and supply chain,” said Mellow.
New Zealand and Australian customers will be served through established local dealerships. The company says its network will include trained sales and service staff, parts support and premium showrooms in metropolitan and selected regional areas. Dealer appointments are due to be announced before launch.
The vehicles will be built in China by Chery Jaguar Land Rover, the partners’ 50:50 joint venture. Established in 2012, the business has manufactured Jaguar and Land Rover models, including the Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque, since 2014.
JLR licensed the Freelander name to the joint venture in June 2024 to establish the standalone brand. Production takes place at its Changshu plant in Jiangsu Province, where the first Freelander 8 rolled off the line on 30 July 2026.
The brand launched in China on 3 September, with the company reporting more than 10,000 pre-orders for the Freelander 8 within 48 hours of orders opening.
Its international launch followed in Abu Dhabi on 29 September, with the UAE becoming its first overseas market. Freelander plans to introduce six models over the next five years.
