Land Rover Defender Mule Continues to Look Awkward on Camera

Not even testing in the snow helps make this Land Rover Defender mule look normal.

This isn’t the first time spy photographers have caught a Land Rover Defender mule testing, but this time there’s a little bit less camouflage up front. Still, the mule looks strange with its chopped up rear doors with the SUV’s wheelbase being shortened. Viewed from the front and rear, it looks like a disguised Range Rover Sport, but the side profile of the mule gives us a general idea of the length Land Rover is targeting for the new Defender.

SEE ALSO: Here’s the First Photographic Evidence a New Land Rover Defender is in the Works

Little is known about the new Defender, but it is expected to debut sometime this year. It will likely take advantage of existing parts from other Land Rover vehicles and will spawn a new family of Defender models. Previously, design boss Gerry McGovern hinted that an SVR high-performance version could be in the works, giving other markets a more powerful and rugged luxury off-roader.

Expect it to ride on an aluminum chassis and have aluminum panels, helping keep weight down. It will, however, remain a true off-roader so Defender enthusiasts need not worry.