Land Rover Defender 90 – A Modern Classic In The Making?

The 21st-century Land Rover Defender flipped the script on what the moniker should be, but can it become as legendary as its forebears?

land rover,defender,90

Image: Land Rover SA

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The Land Rover Defender, a legendary off-roader known for its rugged durability, was reborn in the 21st century, blending the Defender’s iconic style with new-age technology and luxury. The modern-day Defender line-up consists of the Defender 90 (the two-door version), the Defender 110 (four-door), and the Defender 130 (an extended body for added seating or cargo). While each version shares the same off-road prowess, the Defender 90 is the most compact and agile of the trio.

The Defender 90’s shorter wheelbase provides several advantages. It maintains the Defender’s hallmark off-road capabilities, while its compact dimensions enhance manoeuvrability, making it ideal for tight spaces. Especially when going off-road. Compared to its larger siblings, the Defender 90 takes on a more traditional ‘Defender silhouette’ with its two-door setup – a throwback to the original Series Land Rovers. Yet, the SUV still benefits from the same advanced features, technology, and luxury found in the longer models.

The modern Defender family is also highly customisable, with various trim levels, engine options, and packages designed to suit different lifestyles.

land rover,defender,90

Image: Land Rover SA

Eye-Catching Defender

A model in the Land Rover Defender line-up that caught the eye is the 90 D350 X-Dynamic HSE. Powered by a 3.0-litre straight-six diesel engine producing 257 kW and 700 N.m of torque, this model combines both power and efficiency (contextually speaking), making it well-suited for long-range off-road exploration. This powerful engine is coupled with Land Rover’s all-wheel-drive system and employs an 8-speed automatic transmission to channel power to the tyres.

As the name suggests, the ‘X-Dynamic’ adds a level of ruggedness and additional off-road-oriented features, including underbody protection with skid plates, a reinforced bumper, and all-terrain tyres. The air suspension system, which ensures the off-roader can increase its ground clearance to 291 mm when needed, is also standard.

If you’re an avid off-roader, the Defender’s Terrain Response 2 system will definitely come in handy. It gives access to various driving modes, such as mud, sand, or gravel. Additionally, the 900 mm wading depth makes it perfect for crossing rivers or flooded areas, ensuring water is just another obstacle that can be overcome. Inside, the X-Dynamic HSE trim features a premium interior with luxury leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and Land Rover’s latest Pivi Pro infotainment system.

land rover,defender,90

Image: Land Rover SA

Ultimately…

In the evolving landscape of modern off-road vehicles, the Land Rover Defender 90 D350 X-Dynamic HSE sets itself apart as more than just a nod to heritage. It embodies a balance between tradition and innovation, where adventure meets sophistication. This model, and the line-up as a whole, for that matter, isn’t just designed to survive the wilderness: it thrives in it, all while aimed at blending off-road capability with technological finesse.

The Land Rover Defender 90 D350 X-Dynamic HSE is priced from R1 817 000, and comes standard with a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan and warranty.

Browse thousands of new and used vehicles here with CARmag!

The post Land Rover Defender 90 – A Modern Classic In The Making? appeared first on CAR Magazine.


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