Land Rover Defender Pickup to Debut in 2017

WhatCar? reports that Land Rover could launch a pickup version based on the next-generation Defender. The news broke after Land Rover design boss Gerry McGovern explained that the pickup can only be launched when more conventional models of the Defender hit the market.

Now, Land Rover is planning to introduce the new Defender in the year 2016, this according to reports, which will be available in five- and seven-seat configurations, and permanent all-wheel drive. The WhatCar? report goes on to say that the upcoming Defender pickup would be a premium offering with all-wheel drive as standard. It is touted to rival the Volkswagen Amarok

The pickup version will only come in a five-seat, crew-cab configuration with permanent all-wheel drive. Traditionally, the Land Rover Defender has been available in various body styles, including hard top, soft top, wagon, utility wagon, chassis cab, double cab, etc. The rugged Defender platform has proven to be versatile, which can be tailored for specific applications.

gallery: Land Rover Defender

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2017 Land Rover Defender Pickup

Land Rover will launch the next-generation Defender in 2016. The company has already showcased the DC100 Concept , giving us a glimpse of what could be the next Defender. Filling in the shoes of the original would be a tough ask, though, as the Land Rover Defender has been the most basic, entry-level off-roader.

That said, it is also one the best-known off-road vehicles to date and it has been the choice of many exploratory missions. We just hope, the new model can live up to the legacy of the original.

Having said that, the 2016 Land Rover Defender will be followed by the launch of various other body styles based on the new platform. At present, Land Rover has nine body types on offer, depending on its application.

Under the Defender’s hood is a 2.2-liter diesel engine that is capable of producing 265 pound-feet of torque from 2,200 to 4,350 rpm. In its double-cab configuration, the Defender can carry up to five people and is rated for 2,222 lbs of payload capacity.