BABY LANDIE

BABY LANDIE

Land Rover will unveil the LRX next month to give the market some clues of its all-new sub-Freelander SUV

- The current Freelander 2 (not yet on sale in Thailand) has moved upmarket to distance itself from compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V. BMW's next-generation X3 will also follow the footsteps of the Freelander 2.

- This has created space for a sub-Freelander SUV for Land Rover and the LRX would become the new entry-level model for the British 4x4 marque. As well, it will serve as a rival for BMW's forthcoming X1 and Audi Q3.

- Although the LRX is a three-door SUV and it could be made that way, it could turn into a five-door instead. Several years ago, Land Rover showed the three-door Stormer concept, also in Detroit, but transformed it into today's five-door Range Rover Sport.

- The LRX reveals Land Rover's intention of cashing in into the growing "crossover" market which focuses on-road driving more than on off-road. The Defender will remain as the definite mud-ploughing workhorse.

- The LRX showcases a new family look for Land Rover, lightweight technology to reduce fuel consumption (and all the blame 4x4s have been getting recently from green activists) and environment-friendly car parts. Although not announced, hybrid power could make a surprise debut.

OUR TAKE: What about a baby Range Rover sitting below the Sport?