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Frequently asked questions
The manufacturer claims an electric range of 110 km and a total range of 886 km with a full tank and charged battery. Both figures refer to a combined cycle, and the measurement standard is not specified.
The international version shown seats six passengers across three rows. The third row has ventilation, the second row can be equipped with massage-equipped Zero-Gravity seats, and rear passengers can use a 17.3-inch roof-mounted screen.
No. The model has an L2+ driver-assistance package with more than 30 functions, but this level of assistance does not make the vehicle autonomous.
Freelander is returning to the international market with a large six-seat SUV featuring a plug-in hybrid powertrain, all-wheel drive and air suspension. On September 29, 2026, the international left-hand-drive version of the Freelander 8 was presented in Abu Dhabi. The UAE became its first overseas market, while the company scheduled the start of its international test program in Wuhu, China, for October 19.
The market is important context for buyers: the published specifications apply to the Middle Eastern version. Future European specifications may differ. However, the information already disclosed is enough to understand the hybrid system, the equipment offered across three rows and the chassis capabilities.
Freelander Is Now an Independent Brand
The name first appeared on a Land Rover model in 1997 and has now become a standalone brand. The project is being developed by JLR and Chery: JLR owns the brand and handles its design through a dedicated center, while Chery supplies the technology and production base. The Freelander 8 is the first model in the range.
The expansion beyond China begins in the Middle East. The plan then calls for expansion into right-hand-drive markets and the release of versions for the European Union. The company has not yet announced a start date for European sales in the official materials reviewed.
What We Know About the Hybrid Powertrain
The Freelander 8 combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, two electric motors and a lithium iron phosphate battery. It is a plug-in hybrid, so the battery can be recharged from an external power source. In the official description of the international version, the manufacturer lists the following figures.
Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
Powertrain type | Plug-in hybrid, 2.0T gasoline engine |
Drivetrain | All-wheel drive with two electric motors |
Peak system output | 460 kW |
Peak torque | 662 N·m |
0–100 km/h acceleration | 5.8 seconds |
Battery | LFP, 34.12 kWh |
Claimed electric range | 110 km |
Claimed total range | 886 km with a full tank and charged battery |
AC charging | Up to 11 kW |
DC fast charging | 20–80% in 20 minutes or less |
110 and 886 km: How to Read These Figures
886 km is the combined range on gasoline and electricity, not the distance the vehicle can travel on battery power alone. The manufacturer assigns both figures to a combined cycle, but the specific measurement standard is not identified in the release. They cannot be described as WLTP results. Real-world range depends on conditions and driving style.
The same applies to charging: 20 minutes refers to the 20–80% interval, not a full charge. This figure does not indicate how long charging from a standard household outlet would take.
Six Seats: What Passengers Get
The international presentation showed a three-row, six-seat version. Third-row seat ventilation is standard on all six-seat variants. Optional Zero-Gravity second-row seats with massage are available, while rear passengers can use a 17.3-inch roof-mounted screen.
The dashboard combines a wide 46.3-inch Mini LED display with a separate 15.6-inch central screen. The multimedia system is powered by the Qualcomm SA8295P platform. Harman Kardon audio equipment depends on the trim level, with up to 23 speakers specified.
What to Check on a Family Test Drive
Third-row ventilation is useful, but it does not by itself answer whether the SUV will be comfortable on a long journey. Before buying, check whether adults can sit comfortably in the back, how easy it is to reach the last row and how much luggage space remains when all six seats are occupied. The massage seats and roof-mounted screen should be checked separately in the selected trim's equipment list.
Air Suspension and Nine Modes for Different Roads
The chassis uses two-chamber air suspension and continuously adjustable dampers. Maximum ground clearance is 266 mm. The i-ATS system combines seven programs for different surfaces, including sand, with Smart and Expert modes.
The Chery technical release on the chassis and drivetrain also describes an electronically controlled limited-slip differential and a virtual center-differential lock. The latter should not be confused with a separate mechanical lock.
A 70% Grade Equals How Many Degrees?
A 70% grade corresponds to approximately 35°. The percentage represents the ratio of elevation gain to horizontal distance: 70 meters upward for every 100 meters horizontally. This is the maximum grade claimed by the manufacturer. The stated wading depth of up to 900 mm also applies to specific test conditions and operating limits.
What Is Scheduled for October 19–21
According to the Freelander 8 international testing program, runs through mud, sand, gravel and uneven sections are scheduled for October 19, 2026. Climbs, water obstacles and cross-axle articulation sections are planned for October 20–21. October 21 will focus on acceleration, braking, handling and ride comfort on asphalt.
The program will give journalists an opportunity to verify the brand's claims. For now, the listed specifications should be treated as manufacturer data rather than independent test results.
What to Confirm Before Ordering
The official partners in the UAE are Al Tayer Motors and Premier Motors. No confirmed price list has yet appeared in the official materials reviewed. Anyone considering importing the vehicle into another country should check local warranty and servicing terms, as well as the availability of software features.
This is particularly relevant to SIVP automated parking, which is promised only for certain markets and supported scenarios. The standard equipment includes an L2+ driver-assistance package with more than 30 functions, but it does not make the Freelander 8 an autonomous vehicle.
