Where previous generations were in some way more of an evolution of the model being replaced, the new Defender is a complete redesign from the rubber up (although it inherits the previous model’s naming convention, which was based on the length of the platform). The new Land Rover Defender 110 is the first model to be introduced.

The Defender 110 body style offers customers a choice of five, six or 5+2 seating configurations and a load space ranging from 1.075 litres behind the second row, to 2,380 litres with seats folded.

A short-wheelbase Defender 90, with seating for up to six, will be introduced in South Africa early next year.

In South Africa, the 110 line-up includes a flagship 3-litre straight six-cylinder featuring efficient Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle technology with outputs of 294 kW and 550 Nm. Alternatively, customers can choose between two 2-litre variants, with a turbocharged petrol variant offering 221 kW and 400 Nm, and a D240 twin turbocharged diesel producing 177 kW and 430 Nm. Models have permanent all-wheel drive, low range with a centre differential and optional Active Locking Rear Differential.

A comprehensive model range is available, with four specification packs, including base Defender, S, SE and HSE models. Standard features in all versions include permanent all-wheel drive with a high- and low-range transfer box, air suspension, Terrain Response, LED headlights, Connected Navigation, 3D Surround Cameras, 10” infotainment system, a Driver Condition Monitor and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Smartphone Packs.

Customers can also personalise their vehicle in more ways than any previous Land Rover with four Accessory Packs: the Explorer, Adventure, Country and Urban Packs. Accessory Packs are upgradeable with extended options, including deployable side steps, deployable roof ladders, front A-frame protection bars, deep-sided rubber or luxury floor and boot mats, and different wheel options.

Ground clearance is listed as “up to 291 mm” and maximum suspension articulation is 500 mm. The Defender 110’s approach, breakover and departure angles are 38, 28 and 40 degrees respectively when set in Off-Road height.

Pricing (excluding CO₂, July 2020):

Defender 110 177kW D240 R1,050,100

Defender 110 177kW D240 S R1,096,100

Defender 110 177kW D240 SE R1,155,600

Defender 110 177kW D240 HSE R1,259,800

Defender 110 177kW D240 First Edition R1,260,600

Defender 110 221kW P300 Standard R1,050,100

Defender 110 221kW P300 S R1,096,100

Defender 110 221kW P300 SE R1,155,600

Defender 110 221kW P300 HSE R1,259,800

Defender 110 294kW P400 R1,187,000

Defender 110 294kW P400 S R1,224,200

Defender 110 294kW P400 SE R1,286,700

Defender 110 294kW P400 HSE R1,387,900

Defender 110 294kW P400 First Edition R1,377,100

Defender 110 294kW P400 X R1,574,500

Competitors:

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Toyota Land Cruiser 200 and the Nissan Patrol.