Land Rover Defender 3.0 D300 X 130 5dr Auto [8 Seat] Review
Category: Large SUV
Section: Version review
The model
Read full reviewThe Land Rover Defender is a rugged SUV that fuses fantastic off-road ability (especially if you add the optional locking rear differential) with decent on-road manners. If that's the blend of abilities you're after, it's effectively in a class of one, but the Jeep Wrangler is even better in the rough stuff, while premium SUVs, including the Audi Q5 and Q7, are more comfortable. With its bigger boot, the Defender 110 will make the most sense for many, but the 90 is usefully more compact and better off road.
The trim
See full equipmentThis off-road biased trim is the only way to get the most powerful D300 diesel, and it's also available with the P400 petrol engine. Over HSE you get 20in dark grey wheels, orange brake calipers, a black bonnet and roof, a surround sound stereo and an active rear differential to improve traction off road. It also adds air suspension to the 90. Despite having some of the quickest engine choices, you could get a far more luxurious SUV for this money.
The engine
See full engine specsWith the D250 currently unavailable to order, the D300 is our pick of the range. This straight-six diesel has 296bhp and more than enough low-down pull for effortless in-gear acceleration (on or off-road). It'll do 0-62mph in as little as 6.7sec, depending on whether you go for the 90 or the 110. It's also pretty smooth and quiet, and comes with an excellent eight-speed automatic gearbox. The downsides are 25-30mpg in the real world and the top-rate company car tax band.
