With the financial backing of Indian parent company Tata Motors, British automakers Jaguar and Land Rover now have the freedom to expand their lineups with new models that previously would have been too costly.

Jaguar is reportedly working on a host of new models, including the recently revealed 2010 XJ, an all-new XE roadster, an XF Estate and possible a new sportback model, while Land Rover has the 2012 Range Rover LRX as well as a new version of the LR2 (Freelander).

Since 2007 there have been reports of Land Rover working on a new seven-seat LR2. At 14.8-feet in length, the current LR2 is slightly shorter than many of its rivals, though its interior is still generous thanks to its relatively long wheelbase.

According to latest reports, a brand new version of the LR2 with a seven-seat option was due to surface next year but has since been put on hold as Land Rover focuses on the upcoming LRX and its current fleet. The project, codenamed L486, is still important for Land Rover as the company has ambitious plans for the vehicle. Once it’s eventually launched, Land Rover hopes to achieve more than 70,000 sales annually for the new LR2 family.

(www.motorauthority.com)

Tags: LR2, Land Rover, SUV