New patent images of Land Rover Defender 7-seater

A clearer look at the upcoming Defender

Last year we had our first look at what could be a three-row Land Rover Defender via patent images that leaked online, showing a Defender with a longer body. However, there weren't a lot of details to go on apart from the model supposedly being referred to as the Defender 130.

Now, new patent images of the three-row Defender have surfaced. Compared to before, these are a lot more detailed.

The new images come from U.S. Patent Office and it gives us a better idea of what the Defender 130 could look like once it debuts. There are front, side, rear, and even top view images of the SUV. The only thing missing would be patent images of the interior. Similar to before, it looks like most of the added length on the longer three-row model will be found behind the rear axle. Supposedly, the wheelbase will be the same as the current two-row Defender 110.

The rationale behind the "130" moniker is in keeping with LR wheelbase nomenclature conventions. The Defender 90 had a 90 inch wheelbase, while the 110 had a 110 inch wheelbase. That means this one could have a 130 inch wheelbase, or about 3.3 meters thereabouts. Of course the wheelbase isn't exactly that for the new generation models, but close enough. 

Design-wise, it looks very much the same as the Defender 90 and the 110 apart from the extended rear portion. Interestingly, the patent images even show that the space for the side mount exterior storage box will be available on the 130. Does that mean Land Rover will also offer various packages for this model? Meanwhile, the Alpine skylights have been stretched even further, possibly to give third-row some sunshine.

The new patent images also show the Defender 130 having longer overhangs in comparison to the 90 and the 110. As a result, it might not be as capable of going off-road compared to the 90 and 110 models. Meanwhile, engine options will likely be carried over from the existing models.

Land Rover has yet to make an official announcement regarding the longer Defender. With the new patent filing, however, we can expect to hear from the British automaker in the near future. Considering how well the new Defender is selling in the Philippines, the three-row model will likely be available here too.