2024 Land Rover Defender Review For The New Zealand Buyer

The Land Rover Defender’s trajectory since its inception decades ago has been more evolutionary than revolutionary still it continues to impress maintaining its heritage of a formidable off-roader while simultaneously turning heads when driven in the streets. A blend of ruggedness with modern aesthetics lends it a standout look. Comfort and luxury are not overlooked providing a heightened driving experience. Available with a range of engines, the Defender meets the needs of its wide fanbase. As much as it boasts the perks of an excellent car, it faces stiff competition from the Toyota Land Cruiser, Jeep Wrangler, Mercedes Benz G Class, and Subaru Outback.

Engine Options

The 2024 Land Rover Defender comes with four three options.

1. 2.0 L Turbocharged Petrol (P300)
2. 3.0 L Turbocharged Diesel (D250 & D300)
3. 3.0 L Turbocharged Petrol Mild-Hybrid (P400)

Transmission Options

The 2024 Land Rover Defender engine is linked to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

2024 Land Rover Defender Grades

• Land Rover Defender S
• Land Rover Defender S Hard Top
• Land Rover Defender D250 S
• Land Rover Defender X-Dynamic SE
• Land Rover Defender X-Dynamic HSE

For a detailed review of these grades and the best pick while buying this car, kindly refer to the 2024 Land Rover Defender Buyer’s Guide.

2024 Land Rover Defender Interior

The 2024 Land Rover Defender exudes a harmonious blend of utility and modernity for enhanced comfort and functionality. Its versatility makes it a good choice for city driving and off-roading. It is available as either a 5-seater or 8-seater. The first row offers ample legroom and headroom. These seats are heated and can be further adjusted to accommodate a desired position. The second row is very impressive as well boasting sufficient knee room and headroom. These seats are not only comfortable but also very supportive. Due to its limited legroom, the third-row seats are only ideal for kids. Adults will find it unpleasant to sit in.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender proves to be as convenient as its competitors. Besides its large windows, it comes standard with a twin sunroof on higher grades allowing natural light to create a tranquil atmosphere in the cabin. For a heightened driving experience, the cabin is properly insulated to prevent outside noise from causing discomfort to the passengers. A tri-zone climate control ensures room temperature is maintained in the cabin. The Defender incorporates multiple storage compartments throughout the cabin. A center console, two cupholders, a glove box, and door panel storage are fitted in the first row. The second row has jacket pockets, two cupholders, and door pockets. Cupholders are available for third-row occupants.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender comes standard with a Pivi Pro infotainment system embedded with Apple Car Play and Android Auto for seamless integration between the passenger’s devices and the vehicle. High-quality audio system is delivered through the Meridian sound system soothing the ears for a luxury feel.

2024 Land Rover Defender Exterior

The 2024 Land Rover Defender has not departed from its iconic boxy silhouette. With a strong injection of modern aesthetics, the blend exuded is nothing short of elegance and sophistication. Available as either a 3-door (90) or 5-door (110 &130) SUV, this car is highly revered wherever it roams. Sculpted surfaces and expertly crafted contours enhance its dynamism. The legendary Land Rover badge asserts the authority of this car as Matrix LED headlights lend it a contemporary look. Air intake and fog lights on the lower fascia add more flair completing the front look of the Defender.

Muscularity is showcased through its bold fenders housing the 20-inch alloys wheels which contribute to the overall appearance of the vehicle. Side steps aid passengers to effortlessly embark or disembark from the vehicle. The 130 Defender has a longer wheelbase compared to the 90 Defender which is available as a 3-door. Roof rails come in handy when the need to haul more freight arises. Short overhangs contribute to its excellent approach and departure angles. Some models of the Defender come standard with a snorkel which allows this vehicle to cross deep waters without damaging its engine.

The rear encompasses LED taillights and turn signals which echo the front headlights for a uniform look. Its tailgate which hosts the spare wheel opens to the side as functional design elements like gear carriers provide extra storage for more cargo. The Defender is fitted with underbody protection which cushions vital components from damage when off-roading.

2024 Land Rover Defender Carrying Capacity/Cargo Capacity

The 2024 Land Rover Defender 90 (3-door) offers 397 liters of boot space when all the seats are in place and 1,563 liters of space when the rear seats have been retracted. The Land Rover Defender 110 (5-door) has 972 liters of space when all seats are upright and 2,227 liters when the second-row seats have been folded. The Land Rover Defender 130 (Long wheelbase) boasts 388 liters of space when all the seats are in use, 1,232 liters of space when the third-row seats have been retracted, and 2,516 liters of space when both the second and third rows seats have been folded.

2024 Land Rover Defender Fuel Consumption

• 2.0 L Turbocharged Petrol fuel consumption- 9.9 km/l
• 3.0 L Turbocharged Diesel fuel consumption- 12.6 km/l
• 3.0 L Turbocharged Petrol Mild-Hybrid fuel consumption- 10.1 km/l

2024 Land Rover Defender Fuel Tank Capacity

The 2024 Land Rover Defender has a fuel tank capacity of 90 liters.

2024 Land Rover Defender Ground Clearance

The 2024 Land Rover Defender has a ground clearance of 8.0-8.3 inches.

2024 Land Rover Defender Performance

The 2024 Land Rover Defender is available in four engine options, a 2.0 L Turbocharged Petrol (P300) producing 296 horsepower and 400NM of torque. This powertrain delivers a perfect balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The 3.0 L Turbocharged Diesel (D250 & D300) churns out 245 horsepower and 570NM of torque. Besides its thrilling driving experience, it boasts enough torque that can be used to tow caravans or even trailers. The 3.0 L Turbocharged Petrol delivers 394 horsepower and 430NM of torque. It makes a good daily driver owing to its striking balance between fuel efficiency and performance.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender delivers a smooth and comfortable drive. The steering wheel which is very responsive and adapts to road curvature making the driver to be in full control of the vehicle. Some models of the Defender feature an air suspension which can be used to adjust the ride height of the vehicle to either improve aerodynamics or clear inclined and reclined surfaces without damaging its body components and also it absorbs road imperfections for an elevated driving experience. The braking system is very robust with a high stopping power to mitigate potential risks. Due to its high ground clearance resulting in a high center of gravity, it is advisable to slow down when approaching tight road curves to avoid experiencing body rolls.

Safety remains paramount in the 2024 Land Rover Defender as it encompasses a range of safety features ensuring the passengers enjoy a safe and serene ride devoid of any mishaps. Such features include a blind spot monitor, parking sensors, lane departure warning, an autonomous emergency brake system, rearview camera, among others.

2024 Land Rover Defender Off-Road Performance

The Land Rover Defender is renowned for its off-road escapades. The 2024 model is no different showcasing its beastly nature when driving on diverse landscapes and extreme terrains proving to be the best if not among the best formidable off-roaders. Owing to its high ground clearance resulting to an elevated angles of approach and departure, this SUV can effortlessly clear inclined and reclined surfaces without damaging its body components.

The terrain response system plays a pivotal role in the Defender when off-roading as it allows the driver to adjust the vehicle’s settings to match the terrain being cruised on. Its wide range of engine options generates impressive figures of torque giving you enough power to beat extreme terrains. Some models of the Defender feature an air suspension system that is used to adjust the vehicle’s ride height. The wheels are all-terrain tires with a good grip on the road enhancing maximum traction.

The All-Wheel-Drive system distributes power equally to all four wheels thus improving traction especially when driving on slippery surfaces like mud, sand, or even gravel. Its locking differential also plays a pivotal role in ensuring momentum is maintained when driving on loose surfaces. A snorkel is available allowing the adventurous enthusiasts to cross rivers or even flooded areas without knocking the engine.

2024 Land Rover Defender Reliability

Land Rover Defender is a renowned global brand that has built a track record for expertly crafting luxurious vehicles perfectly complemented by durability, functionality, and reliability. The Defender being one of its long-running models has undergone numerous tweaks, modifications, and improvements over the years to be among the most sought-after SUV around the world. The powertrains driving this vehicle have been used in the past iterations apart from the fully hybrid P400e hence it is premature to issue a comprehensive reliability report in regards to its performance. Regular service and maintenance are required to keep this car in optimal condition.

2024 Land Rover Defender Maintenance Schedule

At 5,000 km the 2024 Land Rover Defender requires a change of the air filter, engine oil, and oil filter. At 10,000 km, this vehicle requires an air cleaner, oil filter, fuel filter, ATF filter, cabin filters, plugs, front brake pads, rear brake pads, ATF oil, brake fluid flushes, coolant flushes, and engine oil. For a comprehensive maintenance schedule, click here to download the 2024 Land Rover Defender Owner’s Manual.

2024 Land Rover Defender Competitors

• Toyota Land Cruiser
• Jeep Wrangler
• Mercedes Benz G Class
• Subaru Outback