Just what would an all-new Land Rover Defender look like? According to the automaker, perhaps something like this new DC100 concept, which is destined for an official debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.
Land Rover has issued only this rendering of the concept, but it seems to retain some of the hallmarks of the beloved Defender 90 (i.e. boxy profile, stubby wheelbase, exposed spare tire) while simultaneously working in cues (i.e. fender vents, flared wheel wheels, large wheels, etc.) that are increasingly ingrained into modern Land Rover design DNA.
"Replacing the iconic Defender is one of the biggest challenges in the automotive design world," Gerry McGovern, Land Rover's director of design, said in a prepared release. "It is a car that inspires people world wide. This isn't a production-ready concept, but the beginning of a four-year journey to design a relevant Defender for the 21st century."
Speaking of that four-year journey, Land Rover used the release of this teaser image to also publicly confirm it intends on launching a new Defender around the world in 2015. Officials say they hope to use this concept to engage with customers on what features should be included in the actual production vehicle.
One thing that is still undecided is whether or not the Defender will make a return to North America. While previous reports suggested the all-new design could be engineered to meet NHTSA and FMVSS standards, Land Rover's official stance is there is "no current decision on whether or not the next-generation Defender will come to North American markets."
So, then, it's up to you -- the fans, the enthusiasts, the Defender die-hards -- to voice your opinion. Is Land Rover on the right track? Should the DC100 -- or something like it -- roll into showrooms in four years, if not sooner? Or should McGovern's team head back to the drawing boards and start from scratch? Send your thoughts in the comments section below.
For more information on the Defender Concept and other news breaking from the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, please stay tuned to Automobilemag.com.