We recently reported that the Land Rover Range Rover would draw inspiration from the smaller Evoque crossover in its next generation. Our spy photographer has now given us a better idea of what Land Rover is up to with its largest SUV, having captured a Range Rover test mule in full camouflage driving on the streets of Europe.
At first glance, this appears to be an ordinary Range Rover dressed up in camo, but upon closer inspection you'll notice a few minor differences. The rear doors feature a slight kink where they meet the C-pillar, as opposed to the more straight-up- and-down line of the current Range Rover. A roof spoiler similar to the one used on the Evoque is seen above the rear hatch. There's not much we can comment on in the front, as that portion of the car wears the most camouflage. However, expect to see some Evoque influence in the next-gen Range Rover's nose as well.
It's rumored that the next Range Rover will ride on a stiffened Jaguar XJ platform, said to be reinforced enough to keep the SUV's off-road capabilities intact. Contrary to what we reported in May, the word on the street now is that both the next-gen Discovery, sold as the LR4 in the U.S., and Range Rover Sport will be based on this modified XJ platform. Gasoline and diesel engines could be carried over from the current generation at first, but at least one new hybrid drivetrain is currently in development.
The next Range Rover could arrive by late 2012 or early 2013, but you can expect more details to emerge closer to the car's debut -- likely happening sometime next year.