By Thatcar.co.za
If you watch our podcast, ThatCar.co.za, you’ll know that MOS once called me a Car Sangoma. A name I took with such pride!
Why?
As a car enthusiast, you have to understand the market, read the signs and try to predict what a particular brand is planning. You need to understand its strategy and where it’s going.
Because most of us, in reality, are just seven-year-olds with toy cars, shouting, “Vroooooom!” 😂
But, as usual, I digress.
We make a lot of predictions, and I must say, I’m not a Car Sangoma. I’m the CAR god! Ha ha ha ha!
Why? Because this one, I predicted!
Okay, my prediction isn’t 100% confirmed just yet, so here goes…
WE WILL GET THE FREELANDER!!!
Let me tell you more…
The first-generation Freelander, model code L314, was produced from 1997 to 2006. It was offered in three-door versions, including a soft-top Targa, and five-door station wagon body styles.
It featured permanent four-wheel drive, independent suspension and pioneering technology like Hill Descent Control.
It was mind-blowing! I mean, what did we know back then? A Cressida? A Sierra?
Then along comes this SUV that can go bald while climbing a mountain!
BUT…
It was so unreliable that you could find yourself halfway up a mountain, looking all sorts of fine, only to have to call a Hilux to come and tow you out.
Mind you, you’d probably have to walk to a tikkie box to call the oke with the Hilux! 😂
But, in fairness, towards the end of its life, the Freelander had become better-looking and, in our opinion, a whole lot more reliable. Unfortunately, we think that improvement came a little too late.
And then it disappeared…
Until NOW!
Chery and JLR relaunch Freelander with a 460 kW plug-in hybrid SUV
On 29 September 2026, the new plug-in hybrid SUV introduced FREELANDER as a standalone brand, jointly developed by Chery and JLR.
The collaboration combines JLR-led design with Chery’s vehicle technology and global supply network, with the Middle East serving as the starting point for the brand’s international rollout.
Now, here’s what’s interesting.
1. It’s got some serious power!
An all-electric range of 110 km is complemented by a claimed total range of 886 km with a full fuel tank and fully charged battery.
The setup combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with a 34.12 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery and dual-motor all-wheel drive.
Peak outputs reach 460 kW and 662 Nm, allowing it to sprint from 0–100 km/h in 5.8 seconds.
Not bad for something that started life calling Hilux’s to the rescue! 😂
2. It still wants to go off-road!
The Freelander’s all-terrain credentials are still part of the package, so we’re not surprised to see them return.
The system features seven terrain programmes, including Sand Mode, alongside Smart and Expert modes.
Under the relevant test conditions, the FREELANDER 8 can climb a 70% gradient, equivalent to approximately 35 degrees, and wade through water up to 900 mm deep, subject to its operating limits and the right conditions.
So yes, it still wants to get dirty!
3. It practically drives itself!
Okay, I’m exaggerating… maybe just a little!
More than 30 driver-assistance functions are fitted as standard, while automated valet parking will also be available in selected markets, subject to the system’s operating conditions and the driver’s responsibilities.
In other words, the car is getting cleverer, and we’re getting lazier! 😂
So, why do I predict it will come to South Africa?
Well, the FREELANDER 8 is expected to launch in the first quarter of 2027 before expanding across the Middle East and other left-hand-drive markets.
Right-hand-drive markets will follow in the second phase, with Australia and New Zealand identified as priorities.
Emphasis on RIGHT-HAND DRIVE!
And there, my friends, lies the clue!
South Africa is also a right-hand-drive market. Does that guarantee the Freelander will arrive here? Absolutely not.
But does it give me reason to make a prediction?
YOU BET!
My verdict
First things first: I think it looks HOT! And it should come
I’m putting my Car Sangoma reputation on the line here. The right-hand-drive clue has caught my attention, and I reckon there’s a good chance we could see it on our roads.
Of course, until an official South African launch is announced, this remains a prediction.
But if it does arrive, remember who told you first!
MOS may have called me a Car Sangoma…
BUT I TOLD YOU I’M THE CAR god! 😂
