These days nearly every new car is being tested out at the track before launch, and the place to be is the Nurburgring, which has become sort of a Mecca for test mules and prototypes, whether it’s an eco-oriented EV or an off-roader.

The next generation of the Land Rover Defender is no exception despite having the aerodynamics of a (large) brick. Nonetheless, it seems that the monocoque platform has vastly improved its handling, while the new engines, that apart from the usual petrol and diesel units might be joined by mild hybrids and PHEVs, have made it faster.

In spite of the stiffer chassis and crossover-like architecture, there is still some body roll, as the spy video shared below reveals, but that’s to be expected about such a vehicle. Hopefully, ditching the body-on-frame platform hasn’t affected its off-road capability and Land Rover’s DNA hasn’t been lost when it comes to its most iconic model.

Seeing it officially for the first time with no camo whatsoever means having to wait a few more months, as it’s set to be unveiled in September, either at the Frankfurt show or at a standalone event, whereas customer deliveries will commence early next year.