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The Land Rover Defender 90 V8 video review
The all-new Land Rover Defender 90 V8 mixes personality, power and a supercharged engine, so why does Rory Reid worry it makes no sense?
Words by: Auto Trader
Published on 25 January 2022 | 0 min read
Speed
Land Rover Defenders are known for their rugged off-road ability, tough exteriors and iconic looks. The 2022 Defender 90 V8 has all this, with the added appeal of a five-litre supercharged V8 engine, boasting 525 horsepower and 625Nm of torque. While still holding its own on muddy tracks on the road it can hit 0-62mph in 4.9 seconds and has a top speed of 149 mph.
The Defender 90 V8 builds on decades of Land Rover heritage as the V8 joins the latest range of more real-world Ingenium engines. These provide drivers with cleaner-running vehicles, whilst still enhancing the performance attributes expected in a Land Rover. The V8 goes all-in on the latter and, it’s fair to say, fuelling an SUV like a Defender with an engine this large was always going to divide opinion. Some find a brick-like 4x4 with a monster engine appealing, whilst others stand confused about its purpose. After all, SUVs are typically bought for their spaciousness and easy living. Though this car perhaps has neither, with little boot space, three-door design and a hefty £100,000 price tag. Pair all that with an engine more typically found in sports cars like the Jaguar F-Type and it runs the risk of looking a little off-message.
The Defender 90 V8 builds on decades of Land Rover heritage as the V8 joins the latest range of more real-world Ingenium engines. These provide drivers with cleaner-running vehicles, whilst still enhancing the performance attributes expected in a Land Rover. The V8 goes all-in on the latter and, it’s fair to say, fuelling an SUV like a Defender with an engine this large was always going to divide opinion. Some find a brick-like 4x4 with a monster engine appealing, whilst others stand confused about its purpose. After all, SUVs are typically bought for their spaciousness and easy living. Though this car perhaps has neither, with little boot space, three-door design and a hefty £100,000 price tag. Pair all that with an engine more typically found in sports cars like the Jaguar F-Type and it runs the risk of looking a little off-message.
Off-road capability
The exceptional off-road capability of this vehicle is second to no other Defender, specifically built to deliver both responsive on-road performance and fine control off-road – all without compromising it’s all-terrain and wading ability. Confusing perhaps, when paired with a boot space smaller than that of a Ford Fiesta.
Interior
Underlining its appeal for keen drivers the 90 V8 is the first Defender with paddle shifters behind the steering wheel, giving you more control of the engine and gearbox. Paddle shifters allow drivers to manually shift the gears, whilst not having to take their hands off the wheel.
The infotainment system is displayed on a 11.4-inch screen while the interior also includes an air quality sensor and cabin air ionisation system, removing moisture and bacteria from the air – handy! Feast your eyes on different Land Rover Defender models by clicking here.
The infotainment system is displayed on a 11.4-inch screen while the interior also includes an air quality sensor and cabin air ionisation system, removing moisture and bacteria from the air – handy! Feast your eyes on different Land Rover Defender models by clicking here.