Land Rover Defender Review and What’s New for 2026

Popularity and Market Presence

In the UK alone, more than 17,000 Defenders were sold last year, outpacing many other popular models in the region. On busy London streets and southeast parts of England, Defenders are a common sight, highlighting the model’s strong urban as well as off-road appeal.

Model Range and Sizes
The Defender is available in three main sizes:

• Defender 90: The shortest version, about 4.3 meters long, available as a five- or six-seater (with a jump seat in the front row). It has limited boot space and is less practical for families.

• Defender 110: The mid-sized model, approximately 45 cm longer than the 90, offering five-, six-, or seven-seat configurations (though seven seats are not available for the PHEV). It offers more practicality and is the reviewer’s preferred choice for most buyers.

• Defender 130: The largest version measuring about 5.2 meters long, offering five, seven, or even eight-seat options depending on the trim. Ideal for those needing significant passenger or cargo space.

Design Features and Practicality
The iconic spare wheel mounted on the tailgate makes loading easier off-road, but it presents challenges in tight parking situations because the tailgate swings open to the side, requiring more space behind the vehicle. The tailgate unlocks electronically but must be opened manually.

The boot opening is tall and wide with no lip, making loading easier, though the actual cargo space is not as generous as some competitors like the Audi Q7 or Land Rover Discovery. Optional extras such as an external storage box add 24 liters of capacity for items like muddy boots or awkward groceries.

Powertrain Options and Economy
The Defender is best suited to diesel engines, particularly the D250 (around 250 bhp) and the more powerful D350 (around 350 bhp) variants, both featuring mild hybrid technology. Despite the efficiency technology, real-world fuel economy averages just over 28 mpg in testing, with official figures in the low 30s.

A petrol plug-in hybrid is available, offering about 30 miles of pure electric driving—suitable for those needing company car tax benefits but limited as a full EV. Petrol V8 versions, such as the P425 and the performance-focused Defender Octa with 626 hp and upgraded suspension, are fast but generally less sensible due to high running costs and poor fuel economy.

Interior and Comfort
The Defender’s interior favors practicality over luxury, with some exposed metal and visible screw heads. It’s not as premium as rivals like the BMW X7, but the materials are durable and appropriate for a capable SUV. The seating is comfortable, especially on longer trips, though bolstering is light since the vehicle is not aimed at aggressive driving.

Rear seating in the five-seater offers plenty of head- and knee-room, with the optional seven-seat pack providing extra seats but tighter third-row space. Air suspension, also required for the seven-seat option, greatly improves ride comfort and handling versus standard steel springs.

Technology and Infotainment
From 2026 model year, the Defender gets a larger 13.1-inch touchscreen system (up from 11.4 inches) borrowed from the Range Rover Sport, which is quick and intuitive with smartphone mirroring standard. Physical dials are retained for climate control, offering ease of use even with gloves on.

Numerous clever storage solutions exist including a refrigerated compartment, wireless charging pad, multiple cubbies, and large door pockets. These reinforce the Defender’s family-friendly credentials.

Driving Experience and Off-Road Capability
The driving position is high and comfortable, with excellent visibility all around. Steering feels light and well-weighted, although the Defender does not offer rear-wheel steering like some rivals. Handling is confident but not as agile as premium SUVs such as the Audi Q7 or BMW X5.

The ride quality with air suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and control. The large, boxy shape causes noticeable wind noise, but road and engine noise are well managed on highways.

Off-road, the Defender remains extremely capable with high ground clearance, water wading depth up to 90 cm, and a range of modern assistance systems. New off-road cruise control helps users maintain steady speed over difficult terrain, following lead vehicles in convoy.

Reliability and Ownership
Land Rover’s overall reliability ranking is low among manufacturers, but the Defender stands out as one of the brand’s more dependable models, according to recent surveys. It is considered a solid purchase, combining character with everyday usability.

Summary and Recommendation
The Land Rover Defender endures as a compelling SUV offering a unique blend of ruggedness, practicality, and modern tech. The mid-sized Defender 110 with a diesel engine and air suspension represents the best balance for most buyers, delivering capable off-road performance alongside comfortable road manners.

Although due for a facelift sooner or later, the Defender’s timeless design and robust character keep it competitive in a crowded premium SUV market. Buyers seeking a highly practical, family-friendly, and iconic 4x4 will find much to like here, especially when sensibly specced and avoiding the highest-end expensive trims.

For full detailed reviews and ongoing updates on this test vehicle over longer-term ownership, watch for further reports. The Defender remains a formidable contender in 2026 and beyond.