What is the Defender?
3 Answers
Defender is the Land Rover Defender. Taking the Land Rover Defender 2021 90 P400 X-DYNAMIC as an example: it is a mid-to-large-sized 3-door 5-seater SUV with a length, width, and height of 4583mm, 2008mm, and 1969mm respectively, a wheelbase of 2587mm, equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission, and a top speed of 191 km/h. The Land Rover Defender 2021 90 P400 X-DYNAMIC uses a 3.0T inline six-cylinder engine, with a maximum torque of 550 Nm and a maximum power of 294 kW. The front suspension type is a double-wishbone independent suspension, and the rear suspension type is a multi-link independent suspension.
The name Defender is iconic in the automotive world, serving as Land Rover's legendary off-road vehicle. Originally designed for rural and military use, it was built to withstand the toughest terrains. From old photos, I've seen the first-generation model launched in 1948—a no-frills metal box without air conditioning, yet incredibly rugged. While the modern version has sleeker styling with rounded edges, its soul remains that of a boxy adventure machine. I love reading about its evolution, from the Series I to the latest generation—technology has advanced, but its spirit endures. Many off-road enthusiasts collect older models because these vehicles can endure hundreds of thousands of miles. It frequently appears in movies, especially jungle exploration scenes, instantly sparking the urge to go off-roading.
Driving a Defender feels like being in a moving fortress. I test-drove the latest model, and its chassis is astonishingly sturdy, practically ignoring potholes, while the four-wheel-drive system switches modes intelligently. The design retains its off-road DNA—high ground clearance and scratch-resistant materials make crossing rivers or climbing hills a breeze. It’s also practical for daily family use, with spacious rear seats and ample room for luggage or camping gear. However, urban fuel consumption is on the higher side, often around 15L per 100km. Compared to other SUVs like the Jeep Wrangler, the Defender emphasizes versatility, especially its rock-solid stability outdoors. I once took my family hiking and didn’t panic even in muddy terrain. Sure, comfort takes a slight hit, but driving it gives an unmatched sense of security, with an exceptionally wide field of view.