A while back it was rumored that Land Rover's lineup wilould undergo some some important changes, as 16 new models divided into three different categories -- luxury (Range Rover->ke469), leisure (Discovery/Freelander->ke511) and utility (Defender->ke1858) -- would make their way into dealers. One of these new models will be a replacement for the existing Land Rover Freelander->ke510, which is nicknamed the "baby Discovery."

Rumors suggest that the new model will most likely drop the "Freelander" name and will take some design cues from the current Evoque->ke3666 to help improve sales and give the SUV a modern look.

The new baby Discovery -- internally known as the L550 -- will be based on a modified Evoque platform; it will be larger when compared to the current Freelander; and it will be part of the future Discovery family. Judging by its placement and Land Rover's naming system, this could carry the Discovery Sport name.

The new model is expected to be unveiled in 2016 in both five-seat and seven-seat versions.

Click past the jump to read more about the 2015 Land Rover Baby Discovery.

Spy shots

January, 20 2013 - First Sighting

February, 11 2014 - Baby Discovery Begins Winter Testing

The prototype caught testing today is heavily camouflaged and it looks to be just a mule that has little in common with the looks of the actual baby Discovery. However, you should expect something little larger than the current Freelander, with some design elements taken from the Evoque.

Competitors

Audi Q5

By the time Land Rover releases its new baby Discovery, Audi will also release the new-generation Q5. Until this is made official, however, the current Q5 remains a strong competitor.

The model is offered with a choice of two engines: a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that packs 220 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque and a 3.0-liter V-6 that makes 272 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque.

BMW X3

Though we are not sure when a new-generation Q5 will arrive, it is pretty clear that a new-generation X3 is still years away. However, a revision should be unveiled sometime this year.

Most of the updates be visual and will include a new front bumper with new air intakes and a grille placed more upright as on the current version.