The new small Land Rover is codenamed CB40 and its likely name is the Land Rover Adventurer. Initially SWB only - wheelbase 90 inches. It is going to be launched in October 1996. It will not have an integrated chassis [monocoque construction] - instead the usual ladder frame design! (According to a close Rover source).
The LWB will be launched in October 1997 and will have a 110 inch wheelbase. Now where have I seen those lengths before?.
The body on both versions is likely to have a stepped design similar to the Land Rover Discovery and integrated roof rails as standard. Sounds like good competition for its class.
The mock ups of the new vehicle have been spotted in Ireland by various LROEC members!!!! - scoop!!!!.
Apparently the 3 door Discovery is to die towards the end of 1997 (I hope not - it would spell the end of the famous Commercial version). There will be another all new Discovery then as well - and this looks likely to be badged as a BMW [hmmm] as well as a LR model!
The 300 Tdi is apparently being changed this year as well? No details as of yet.
[Ed: I wonder what this implies for the future of the Defender?]
A new Irish-made film drama entitled "SARA" (was actually shot in the Camargue area of France) features a SIII in the final episode - French registration. Also a new BBC Ireland drama called "Ballykissangel" features a Discovery thoughout the series.
- Tony Luckwill, 1996
[LROEC]