Five Things to Know About the 2020 Land Rover Defender
The next-generation 2020 Land Rover Defender made its official debut on September 10 at the Frankfurt Auto Show. It’s a completely different interpretation of the iconic off-roader, yet it somehow stays true to Land Rover tradition.
Here are five things you need to know…
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Two Configurations
The long-wheelbase Land Rover Defender 110 is available with four distinct accessory packs (Explorer, Adventure, Country and Urban) and as many as 170 individual accessories. The spacious interior can sit up to seven and looks both rugged and sophisticated at the same time.
Meanwhile, the smaller Land Rover Defender 90 is a five-passenger model offering a full-length folding fabric roof option. More agile, it will arguably be the ideal choice for off-road excursions.
Two Powertrains
The entry-level P300 gets a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 296 horsepower and accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 8.1 seconds.
You’ll be able to save two seconds with the 395-horsepower P400 featuring an inline six-cylinder engine and mild hybrid technology. The latter uses a 48-volt battery and an electric compressor called “eSupercharger” that delivers more fresh air to the engine.
A plug-in hybrid variant will join the lineup next year.
Multiple Options
Land Rover pioneers a satin protective film that can be installed during assembly to preserve the body paint. On or off the road, visibility can be enhanced with a 3D surround view system, including the brand’s ClearSight Ground View technology that lets drivers essentially see through the hood and engine.
The centre console houses USB ports at every row of seating, plus a 110-volt outlet that can power several devices simultaneously. A 700-watt Meridian surround sound system is also available and it features 15 speakers for a completely immersive audio experience.
Familiar Styling with a Modern Twist
Physically, the 2020 Land Rover Defender is defined by a commanding stance and a sleek, concept-like exterior. Of course, designers gave the vehicle a boxy shape in true Land Rover fashion.
The unique looks convey a sense of ruggedness both inside and out. The panoramic sunroof on the Defender 90 makes the cabin feel roomier and connected with the exterior environment. It can either be body-coloured or finished in contrasting Narvik Black paint.
What About Pricing?
Built in Slovakia, the new Land Rover Defender 110 will go on sale next spring, while the Defender 90 will be available later in 2020. Pricing starts at $65,300 in base S trim and reaches $93,600 for the Defender X.