FREELANDER Makes Its Global Debut in the Region, Unveiling the FREELANDER 8 at Its GCC Launch

New British premium intelligent all-terrain brand names the Middle East as the starting point for its global journey

The FREELANDER 8 takes centre stage at the brand’s GCC launch.

FREELANDER has officially launched as a global brand in the region. Its GCC launch took place under the theme “Beyond the Legend,” where the brand also unveiled its first model, the FREELANDER 8.

By choosing the Middle East as the strategic starting point for its worldwide rollout, FREELANDER has given customers across the Gulf, including Qatar, a first look at a new name in premium motoring.

A legendary name, reborn as a standalone brand

FREELANDER is now a standalone “British Premium Intelligent All-Terrain Brand,” developed jointly by JLR and Chery. JLR owns the brand and runs its Design Hub, while Chery provides intelligent technology and supply-chain support. The brand’s vision is “to become a world-leading premium new energy brand.”

The Freelander name first appeared in 1997 and became known for combining everyday usability with real all-terrain capability. The new brand builds on that heritage and moves into intelligent, new-energy mobility.

FREELANDER 8: designed with the Gulf in mind

The FREELANDER 8 is a mid-to-large SUV. Several of its features were developed with the region’s climate and lifestyle in mind:

•       Built for extreme heat: a 45 cc air-conditioning compressor for strong cabin cooling in Gulf summers.

•       Desert-ready capability: a dedicated Sand Mode within the nine-mode i-ATS (Intelligent All-Terrain System), with hybrid all-wheel drive and dual-chamber air suspension.

•       A regional first: a Qibla Compass available only in the Middle East.

•       Commanding presence: a 2,050 mm body width with a strong shoulder line.

•       Intelligent cabin: a Qualcomm SA8295P automotive-grade chip, a 46.3-inch 8K Mini LED far-side screen and a 15.6-inch LCD centre display.

•       Driver assistance: L2+ advanced driver assistance.

With its GCC launch, FREELANDER begins a new chapter for one of the best-known names in all-terrain motoring, combining British heritage with intelligent technology and capabilities developed for demanding markets such as the Middle East.

Lucia Mao

CEO of FREELANDER International

“FREELANDER is a British legend. But we want to do more than just bring it back. Chinese technology opens up new possibilities. That is what ‘Beyond the Legend’ means. British soul. Chinese intelligence. A legend going further than ever.”

Peter Matkin

Chief Engineer at Chery International R&D Centre

“Before you face extreme heat, heavy rain or rough ground, we put the car through it first. So wherever you go, you can drive with confidence.”

About Qatar Living:

Since 2005, Qatar Living has been the trusted destination for everything Qatar. As the country's largest online community and marketplace, Qatar Living connects people with opportunities through jobs, property, vehicles, services, classifieds, events, local insights, and breaking news. Trusted by residents, newcomers, visitors, and businesses alike, Qatar Living brings Qatar together in one place.

Instagram - @qatarliving

X - @qatarliving

Facebook - Qatar Living

YouTube - qatarlivingofficial