
The Land Rover Defender is made by Land Rover, a British automotive marque that is part of Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), which is, in turn, owned by the Indian multinational corporation Tata Motors since 2008. The original, iconic Defender was produced from 1983 until 2016. The current, modern-generation model was launched in 2020 and is built at JLR's state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Nitra, Slovakia.
The Defender's identity is deeply rooted in British automotive history, tracing its lineage back to the original Land Rover Series I unveiled in 1948. It was designed as a rugged, go-anywhere off-road vehicle. The contemporary Defender retains this core DNA of extreme capability but now incorporates modern luxury, advanced technology, and unibody construction for improved on-road comfort.
Its capability is defined by sophisticated hardware. It features a body-on-frame construction with a monocoque-style D7x architecture that is exceptionally stiff. All models come standard with permanent four-wheel drive and a highly advanced Terrain Response 2 system. This system automatically optimizes the vehicle's settings—including throttle response, transmission shift points, and differential locking—for various surfaces like grass, gravel, snow, mud, ruts, or sand.
| Defender Model Variant | Engine Options | Approx. 0-60 mph Time | Key Feature Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Defender 90 (2-door) | 4-cyl. Turbo, 6-cyl. MHEV, 8-cyl. V8 | 5.7 sec (P400 MHEV) | Ultimate agility and classic short-wheelbase styling. |
| Defender 110 (4-door) | 4-cyl. Turbo, 6-cyl. MHEV/PHEV, 8-cyl. V8 | 5.1 sec (P400 MHEV) | The balanced choice for family space and off-road prowess. |
| Defender 130 (8-passenger) | 6-cyl. MHEV, 8-cyl. V8 | 5.6 sec (P400 MHEV) | Maximum passenger and cargo capacity for large groups. |
| Defender Hard Top (Commercial) | 4-cyl. Diesel | ~10.0 sec | Designed for commercial use with a focus on payload and durability. |
When considering a Defender, think about your primary needs. The 90 is for those who prioritize a fun, nimble experience; the 110 is the most versatile all-rounder; and the 130 is for families requiring maximum space. Its chief competitors include the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, Jeep Wrangler, and Land Cruiser.


