Land Rover Defender finally comes with a supercharged V8 engine

KUALA LUMPUR: Since its launch in 2020, the new Land Rover Defender is available in two powertrain options, including a turbocharged inline-four and a turbocharged inline-six mild-hybrid. But now the customers can get one more trim of the off-roading SUV as the British automaker has finally introduced the long-time rumored Defender V8. 

Available in both long-wheelbase 110 and short-wheelbase 90 body styles, the supercharged 5.0-litre V8 petrol mill kicks out a whopping power of 524 PS and a peak torque of 625 Nm. The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission driving all four wheels. All that extra grunt helps the Defender V8 to hit the 100 kmph mark in just 5.2 seconds (in short-wheelbase versions), before attaining a top speed of 240 kmph.

Talking about the fuel consumption, as expected the mighty V8 is not economical on this part. Land Rover stated mileage of 14,5 litres per 100 km (6.9 kmpl) and a CO2 emissions figure of 327 grams per km.

The automaker has also made many changes on the mechanical front to control the additional power. The Defender V8 features larger-diameter anti-roll bars, which reduces the body roll. A yaw controller is added to the electronic active rear differential for better performance at corners. Also, there is a dynamic driving setting available for the Terrain Response system resulting in better suspension and throttle response.

To mark a difference between standard Defender and Defender V8, Land Rover brings on board a few visual enhancements. These include Xenon Blue front brake calipers, 22-inch wheels, and quad exhaust pipes. For exterior shade, the customers can choose among the three choices - Carpathian Grey, Yulong White, and Santorini Black. 

Inside, the most powerful Defender boasts an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel and Ebony Windsor leather upholstery with Robustec and Miko Suedecloth trimmings.

Land Rover also revealed a limited Carpathian Edition of the Defender V8 that has a number of exterior and interior tweaks.

Apart from the Defender V8, the company also introduces some changes for the standard Defender. These include Bright and Extended Bright exterior packages, standard wireless device charging, and an optional 11.4-inch touchscreen for the Pivi Pro infotainment system.

The new Land Rover Defender V8 is now available to order in the UK market, with prices starting from £98,505 (RM 562,914) for the Defender 90 and £101,150 (RM577,948) for the Defender 110.

Also read: Land Rover may bring the pickup version of the new Defender