Body style: SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle) Segment: Medium SUV Infotainment: Apple CarPlay Android Auto Production years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 Review: 2022 Land Rover Defender 90 V8 – When Excess is a Virtue, not a Vice
Land Rover brought one of its most iconic models, the Defender, into a new era when it introduced its second generation, and it built it in three versions that sported the traditional 90, 110, and 130 labels. Discovery Engine
The Defender 90 was the shortest of them all, and it draws back its moniker from the old Series II Land Rover. That model featured just two doors at the front and one entry (side-hinged) in the back and could take as many people on board as they could stuff inside that cramped cabin. Over the years, the Series II became the Defender in the late '80s and was allowed to carry just five people on face-forward seats. That car became an icon and was cherished and loved by many despite its many design flaws. With the second, entirely new generation of the Defender, Land Rover moved this model on a higher level of comfort and quality, but without forgetting its agricultural roots.
The car's exterior resembles the old D100 concept car that was unveiled by the British automaker in 2011. In 2019, the production version of that prototype came alive and had the Defender nameplate attached to it. The front fascia featured a pair of headlights adorned by circular LEDs that headlamps installed on its predecessor. Still, the plastic bumper and grille were nothing like those from the previous model. But it looked bold. In addition, the flared wheel arches and the overall look were unmistakably inspired by the Series II and III. The 2019 Defender 90 featured two doors and a short wheelbase, just like its ancestors. The flat, vertical cut at the rear with the externally mounted spare wheel was also charismatic for this model. At the back, the taillights sported a rectangular shape.
Inside, it was a modern vehicle fitted with all the features and amenities of an upscale off-roader. There was a digital instrument cluster instead of analog dials and a landscape-oriented touchscreen for the infotainment system on top of the center. Between the comfortable front seats, Land Rover installed a tall center console that housed a few storage areas and an armrest. The gear selector for the automatic transmission found its place closer to the dashboard, like in the old days. Bonus points: It was easier to use. In the back, the carmaker installed a flat-folding bench seat that could accommodate up to three occupants, although the legroom was minimal.
But the Defender's real value was under its skin. Land Rover installed a choice of diesel and gasoline engines ranging between 200 PS (197 HP) and 525 PS (518 HP) paired with a standard eight-speed automatic transmission. Power went in all corners via a two-speed transfer box. To better cope with off-road situations, the automaker offered an air suspension for the Defender.
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