Reviews - Land Rover

Overall Rating

Defender is descended from the original 1948 Land Rover, which explains why it falls short in many areas. This and Jeep invented go-anywhere motoring; as a result, enthusiasts forgive its shortcomings.

• Enduring heritage, road presence
• Go-anywhere ability
• Simple mechanics, easy to fix, cheap parts

• Basic comforts even on later models
• Hard ride on-road
• Even diesel versions are rather thirsty

Defender is the real thing. No lifestyle 4x4 this, but a big boy's toy to get down and dirty in - anywhere. It's a tough, long-lasting, reliable tool, as farmers, emergency services and explorers will testify as its simple construction and robust chassis can be converted or adapted to a variety of roles. It's also a great towing vehicle. Years of development have knocked some of the rough edges off, but the four-square body makes no concession to aerodynamic efficiency or modern styling. The hard suspension and firm, upright seats (sideways-facing for rear passengers) mean below-average ride comfort. And it's noisy at most speeds, despite its fairly refined and punchy BMW-derived 2.5 TD5 engine, five-cylinder diesel engine producing 90 kW (122 bhp) and 300 Nm (221 lb ft) of torque. With a choice of three wheelbase lengths - 90, 110 and 130 - the Defender offers customers a host of body-styles and equipment options. The 90 and 110 are available as pick-up, hardtop and station wagon versions. The 110 is also available as a double cab and the 130 as a crew cab. The later 130 version is also available with a range of factory produced conversions and specialist selection of bodywork such as a tipper, a crew cab with high-capacity pick-up body, drop-side body, or with a selection of box bodies. Despite its rather basic nature, it's not cheap, with taken-for-granted kit like ABS, air con and sunroofs all at extra cost, pushing up prices still further. Parts and servicing are competitive, but it only gives mpg in the high 20s in short-wheelbase form, and its high emissions attract the highest company car tax liability. Residual values for the Defender are excellent and year after year it doesn't seem to lose its appeal. Even at 10 years of age the Defender is usually worth more than 50% of its original list price.

Remains popular as a tough, robust 4x4. Poor economically but excellent residual value makes up for the expensive running costs.