Land Rover Defender 2024 review
Photo: Alexander Migl (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Land Rover Defender is Britain's most iconic 4x4, and the reinvented model launched in 2020 has turned it from a farm workhorse into a genuinely desirable premium SUV. Sold in 90, 110 and 130 body styles, the 110 five-door tested here is the sweet spot for most UK buyers, blending everyday practicality with ability that embarrasses dedicated off-roaders.
On the road the Defender feels far more refined than its rugged looks suggest. The D250 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel with mild-hybrid assistance is the engine most British buyers choose, pulling strongly from low revs and returning respectable economy for a 2.3-tonne SUV. Air suspension is standard on higher trims and gives a calm, lofty ride, while the cabin mixes durable materials with a proper modern infotainment system.
There is no getting around the price: a well-specified Defender costs as much as a Range Rover Sport did a few years ago, and options quickly push it higher. Reliability surveys also show Land Rover still has work to do. But nothing else combines this presence, this off-road credibility and this much British character. For towing caravans, crossing fields or simply making the school run feel like an expedition, the Defender remains in a class of one.
UK price from: £60,895
Specifications
| Engine | 3.0-litre 6-cyl turbodiesel mild-hybrid |
| Power | 249 PS |
| 0-60 mph | 7.7 seconds |
| Top speed | 117 mph |
| Fuel economy | 29.1 mpg (WLTP combined) |
| CO2 | 230 g/km |
| Boot space | 786 litres (110, 5-seat) |
| Length | 5,018 mm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drive | All-wheel drive |
Features
- 11.4-inch Pivi Pro touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Full-time four-wheel drive with low-range transfer box and locking differentials
- Electronic air suspension with adjustable ride height
- 3,500kg maximum braked towing capacity
- 360-degree camera with ClearSight ground view for off-roading
- Meridian sound system on S trim and above
- Heated front seats, heated steering wheel and three-zone climate control
- Up to seven seats available in the Defender 110
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pads (set) | £89.99 | Genuine pads for the 110 D250; pattern parts from around £45 |
| Oil filter | £14.99 | Replace at every annual or 16,000-mile service |
| Air filter | £32.99 | Worth changing yearly if you drive on dusty rural roads |
| Wiper blades (pair) | £29.99 | Flat-blade type; check before the MOT |
| Battery (AGM, 95Ah) | £189.99 | Stop-start equipped, so an AGM battery is essential |
| All-terrain tyre (255/65 R19) | £219.99 | Fitted price per corner at most UK tyre specialists |
Pros
- Unmatched off-road ability straight out of the showroom
- Huge road presence and unmistakable British character
- Strong, refined six-cylinder diesel suits long UK motorway journeys
- Excellent towing credentials for caravans and horseboxes
Cons
- Expensive to buy, with options adding thousands more
- Patchy reliability record in owner satisfaction surveys
- Large dimensions make tight city streets and car parks tricky
- Running costs are high: insurance, tyres and servicing all cost serious money
