The long-awaited V8 version of the new Land Rover Defender brings “a new layer of driver appeal” to the reborn 4×4 alongside a series of updates for the model range.
The long-awaited V8 version of the new Land Rover Defender brings “a new layer of driver appeal” to the reborn 4×4 alongside a series of updates for the model range.
The 5.0-litre supercharged ‘AJ’ V8 engine – familiar from performance-focused models including the Range Rover Sport and Jaguar F-Type and now produced in-house by JLR – endows the 4×4 with 391kW and 625Nm, making it the most powerful Defender yet to reach series-production.
It’s also comfortably the fastest, hitting 100km/h from rest in just 5.2sec and topping out at 240km/h in short-wheelbase, three-door 90 guise.
The larger, five-door 110, the new addition to the range is marked out visually by its quad-exit exhaust, grey 22-inch alloy wheels and blue front brake callipers, while a bespoke tune for the induction and exhaust systems should help to tell the V8 apart from its quieter four- and six-cylinder range-mates.
There are nods to the car’s performance capabilities inside, too, where the standard leather steering wheel is swapped for an Alcantara-wrapped item and the gearshift paddles are uniquely finished in chrome.
A contrasting black roof is available for cars specified primarily in grey or white, while the special Carpathian Edition gains a contrasting bonnet and tailgate, along with a matt-effect body wrap that protects against scratches and chips.
As suggested by previous sightings of Defender V8 prototypes aggressively lapping the Nürburgring, Land Rover has also focused on the range-topper’s handling, ushering in a raft of chassis tweaks with the aim of delivering “unrivalled agility and driver appeal” alongside the improved straight-line pace.
In addition to the off-road driving modes offered by the standard Defender’s Terrain Response system, the V8 gains a new Dynamic setting, which sharpens throttle response and firms up the continuously variable dampers for a more “playful” dynamic character, both on and off the road.
The V8 also features stiffer suspension bushes and thicker anti-roll bars for flatter cornering, plus a yaw controller in the rear differential that varies torque across the rear axle for maximum grip.
Alongside the introduction of the new performance model, the Defender can now be specified with a larger 11.4in touchscreen – with a 60% larger interface than standard – for the Pivi Pro infotainment system, as well as wireless phone charging and a signal booster.
Three new styling packs are also available, bringing bespoke exterior details, while the limited-run First Edition is replaced, a year after launch, by the series-production XS Edition, which wears colour-coded lower trim and brings kit upgrades including 12-way adjustable heated front seats, khaki leather upholstery, matrix LED headlights and air suspension.
Felix Page