Vehicle production is underway again in Linares, Jaén, where Santana Motors is building the Cajal, a new 4x4 that brings the brand back to its off-road roots. Based on the BAIC BJ40 platform but tailored for European tastes, the Cajal is assembled in Linares alongside the Santana 400. The factory also builds a compact electric model from JAC Motors. Santana’s current branded range comprises the Cajal and the 400 pickup; production uses semi-knocked-down kits, and the company aims to increase the share of Spanish and European supplier components over time. The restart is backed by an industrial partnership with BAIC International, which provides technological and industrial capacity.
Classic Form, Modern Ambition
The Cajal has a squared, muscular silhouette, a deliberate nod to the golden age of off-roaders. Its imposing grille, distinctive LED lighting and pronounced wheel arches evoke icons such as the Land Rover Defender and Suzuki Jimny. Practical details include frameless doors and a split rear tailgate. The rear window opens independently for easier cargo access. Mounted on the lower tailgate, the spare wheel reinforces its off-road credentials. Measuring 4.79 metres long with a 2.76-metre wheelbase, the Cajal is designed to look and act the part in rugged terrain.
Digital Cockpit Revolution
Inside, Santana has broken with tradition. The Cajal’s cabin features five integrated screens: a 10.25-inch LCD instrument cluster for the driver, a 12.8-inch basic touchscreen for multimedia and vehicle controls, plus a second 12.8-inch display in front of the passenger. That screen offers entertainment and off-road information, including vehicle tilt and wading depth, along with differential status. It lets the co-driver assist during challenging manoeuvres.
Two more displays complete the setup. A configurable 1.92-inch screen doubles as the start button, while a digital rear-view mirror uses a camera feed to preserve visibility when cargo or terrain blocks the rear view. The technology package also includes a 10-speaker sound system with subwoofer, wireless smartphone charging of up to 50W and ten power outlets distributed throughout the cabin. Leather seats, a panoramic roof and flexible cargo space add comfort.
Engineered for Real Off-Roading
Under the hood, the Cajal sticks with classic 4x4 engineering. It skips electrification in favour of a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel delivering 163 hp and 390 Nm of torque. An eight-speed ZF automatic transmission manages power, alongside a selectable four-wheel-lead system with low-range gearing. A ladder-frame chassis and homologated tow hitch, together with a 2,500 kg towing capacity, reinforce its utilitarian focus.
Drivers can select 2H, 4A, 4H or 4L modes, with eleven terrain-specific programmes for snow and sand, as well as mud and rocks. The system also covers water crossings and tarmac. Off-road geometry includes 22 cm of ground clearance, a 37-degree approach angle and a 31-degree departure angle, with up to 80 cm of wading depth. The Cajal has three locking differentials: a centre differential and one at each axle. A tank-turn function locks the inner rear wheel to help the vehicle pivot in tight spaces.
Reviving a Spanish Legacy
The Cajal is part of Santana Motors’ effort to re-establish vehicle manufacturing in Linares. The factory’s industrial legacy includes earlier manufacturing ties with Land Rover and Suzuki, but its current partnership is with BAIC International. A Santana Motors statement reported by elEconomista described the project as backed by “a strong industrial partnership with the powerful Chinese company BAIC International.” The company also has institutional support from Linares City Council and the regional government of Andalusia. At the Madrid launch, CEO Edu Blanco said the alliances were basic to delivering “authentic and capable vehicles” while supporting the local economy.
The current two-model range pairs the Cajal with the Santana 400 pickup. Reports put the Cajal’s price below €50,000, while Santana’s wider product strategy includes diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains. The company has also reported plans for a medium-sized pickup in 2027. Its international expansion is accompanied by a stronger executive team: Miguel Martínez-Verdú has been appointed Chief Business Development Officer to support growth and prepare for entry into more European markets.
The history of the Linares site gives the revival added significance. In 2026, an exhibition titled “Papel y Metal. 70 años de historia industrial” marked seven decades of manufacturing agreements involving Land Rover. Earlier, in 1993, labour and management negotiations at the Santana-Suzuki factory involved the works council and the Andalusian government’s labour department. Santana is now again positioning Linares around 4x4 production, promoting its return through media appearances and motorsport, including participation in the Dakar with Jesús Calleja.
Santana’s approach contrasts with the wave of urban SUVs dominating the market. The Cajal pairs off-road capability with digital technology, targeting drivers who want adventure and comfort. The strategy echoes wider automotive trends: brands such as Skoda have also pushed boundaries. The Elroq RS, for example, outpaced classic supercars in a recent acceleration showdown, as reported here.
Context and Outlook
Santana Motors is relaunching as Spain seeks to strengthen its industrial base and diversify its automotive sector. The Cajal combines traditional off-road engineering with a five-screen cockpit, setting it apart in a specialised segment. Production in Linares, the planned increase in Spanish and European component content, and the reported 2027 pickup key stage are part of a wider effort to rebuild the brand’s manufacturing and commercial presence.
