The Land Rover Defender lineup has been updated, introducing a luxurious new seven-seater, a more powerful diesel engine, and a new supercharged V8 to replace its previous petrol straight six. This refresh, arriving four years after the launch of the L663-generation Defender, brings several important mechanical and cosmetic improvements, along with a restructured trim lineup.
The most significant change under the hood is the replacement of the D300 diesel engine with the more potent D350 from the Range Rover, boosting power outputs to 345bhp and 516 lb-ft, resulting in improved performance for tasks like overtaking and towing. While performance figures for the new engine haven't been disclosed, it's expected to slightly outperform the D300's 0-62mph time of 7.0 seconds.
Similarly, the P400 Ingenium straight-six petrol engine has been swapped out for a 419bhp version of JLR's supercharged 5.0-liter V8. The plug-in hybrid Defender also sees a change, shifting from a P400e setup to a detuned P300e arrangement, maintaining a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine instead of the three-pot used in other models.
These updates aim to ensure compliance with Euro 6e emissions legislation, hinting that the petrol straight six might soon be phased out from other models like the Discovery, Range Rover, and Range Rover Sport.
Interior upgrades include the introduction of a new Captain Chairs pack for the three-row Defender 130, replacing the middle bench with two individual armchairs and offering improved comfort for passengers. Additionally, a Signature Interior pack is available, bringing various enhancements like electrically adjustable front seats, heated third-row seats, premium upholstery, and a bespoke colour scheme.
The Defender lineup now consists of simplified trim options including S, X-Dynamic SE, X-Dynamic HSE, X, and V8 variants, available in 90, 110, and 130 body styles. A new 'Sedona' edition of the 110 is also introduced, featuring bespoke red paintwork, a black trim pack, and an optional bonnet decal depicting the terrain of Sedona, Arizona.
Prices for the Defender start from £53,310 for the Defender S 90 and £60,470 for the smallest version of the commercial Hard Top variant, with the top-of-the-range 130 starting from £81,585.