Land Rover LRX Coming

British nameplates are enjoying somewhat of a renaissance these past few years - Bentley, MINI and Rolls-Royce have all been successful under BMW and VW's ownership. Now Jaguar and Land Rover are coming out with impressive new. The XF mid-size sedan has led the charge at Jaguar, followed up by the XJ flagship sedan.

Land Rover has held it's own, but will there be a breakthrough new product for them too? Maybe so!

The Land Rover LRX concept was well-received, and for good reason. The LRX is attractive and promised to bring something new to Land Rover, which is celebrating it's the 40th anniversary of the Range Rover on June 17, 2010.

While we usually don't have exact dates, Autocar says there is a high likelihood Land Rover will decide to introduce it on that day and I'm inclined to agree. Auto manufacturers like to make a big deal about introductions, and that day offers a chance as good as any. The MINI Coupe Concept debuted on that car's 50th birthday.

The production LRX is going to be a very important vehicle for Land Rover. There are a few questions I have about it though. How will the market received a 3-door crossover, if that is indeed the final configuration? Also, does the LRX signal a new emphasis on a more urban buyer - like will it still have the legendary off-road capability that Land Rovers are known for? It appears that might be the case, with the LRX rumored to be offered with an available hybrid drivetrain.