2024 Land Rover Defender Review

The Land Rover Defender’s trajectory since its inception decades ago has been more evolutionary than revolutionary. Still, it continues to impress maintaining its heritage of a formidable off-roader while simultaneously turning heads when driven in the streets. A blend of ruggedness with modern aesthetics lends it a standout look. Comfort and luxury are not overlooked providing a heightened driving experience. Individuals looking for a balance between rugged capability and luxury have a good choice in the Defender. Despite its strengths, it faces stiff competition from the Toyota Land Cruiser, Jeep Wrangler, Mercedes Benz G Class, and Subaru Outback.

WHAT’S NEW

  • The 2024 model features an updated infotainment system with a larger touchscreen & updated software.
  • The driver-assist systems have been updated
  • New engine options that offer a harmonious blend of performance and fuel efficiency.

GRADES OF THE 2024 LANDROVER DEFENDER

  1. Land Rover Defender S- This entry grade boasts cloth upholstery, steel wheels, electronic stability control, power mirrors, roof rails, adaptive cruise control, LED headlights, a terrain response system, and a Pivi Pro infotainment system with Apple Car Play & Android Auto.
  2. Land Rover Defender S Hard Top- This grade comes with Apple Car Play, Android Auto, power windows, Bluetooth connectivity, power windows, privacy glass, rain-sensing wipers, lane departure warning, parking sensors, USB ports, and privacy glass.
  3. Land Rover Defender D250S- This grade features roof rails, LED headlights, power-adjustable seats, climate control, adaptive cruise control, a blind spot monitor, a panoramic sunroof, keyless entry & start, ambient lighting, AM/FM Radio, and a terrain response system.
  4. Land Rover Defender X Dynamic SE- This grade has a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Meridian sound system, leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, power mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, a 360-degree camera, parking sensors, a Pivi Pro infotainment system embedded with Apple Car Play, and Android Auto.
  5. Land Rover Defender X Dynamic HSE- This grade features a head-up display, Matrix LED headlights, configurable terrain response system, dynamic stability control, wade sensing, electronic stability control, stylish wheels, High-end Windsor leather upholstery, and an electronic air suspension.

Access a wide range of premium car articles & documents such as Owner’s Manuals, Service Manuals, and Expert Guides. 

 INTERIOR

The 2024 Land Rover Defender exudes a harmonious blend of utility and modernity for enhanced comfort and functionality. Its versatility makes it a good choice for city driving and off-roading. It is available as either a 5-seater or 8-seater. The first row offers ample legroom and headroom. These seats are heated and can be further adjusted to accommodate a desired position. The second row is very impressive as well boasting sufficient knee room and headroom. These seats are not only comfortable but also very supportive. Due to its limited legroom, the third-row seats are only ideal for kids. Adults will find it unpleasant to sit in.

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The 2024 Land Rover Defender proves to be as convenient as its competitors. Besides its large windows, it comes standard with a twin sunroof on higher grades allowing natural light to create a tranquil atmosphere in the cabin. For a heightened driving experience, the cabin is properly insulated to prevent outside noise from causing discomfort to the passengers. A tri-zone climate control ensures room temperature is maintained in the cabin. The Defender incorporates multiple storage compartments throughout the cabin. A center console, two cupholders, a glove box, and door panel storage are fitted in the first row. The second row has jacket pockets, two cupholders, and door pockets. Cupholders are available for third-row occupants.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender comes standard with a Pivi Pro infotainment system embedded with Apple Car Play and Android Auto for seamless integration between the passenger’s devices and the vehicle. High-quality audio system is delivered through the Meridian sound system soothing the ears for a luxury feel.

EXTERIOR

The 2024 Land Rover Defender has not departed from its iconic boxy silhouette. With a strong injection of modern aesthetics, the blend exuded is nothing short of elegance and sophistication. Available as either a 3-door (90) or 5-door (110 &130) SUV, this car is highly revered wherever it roams. Sculpted surfaces and expertly crafted contours enhance its dynamism. The legendary Land Rover badge asserts the authority of this car as Matrix LED headlights lend it a contemporary look. Air intake and fog lights on the lower fascia add more flair completing the front look of the Defender.

Muscularity is showcased through its bold fenders housing the 20-inch alloy wheels which contribute to the overall appearance of the vehicle. Side steps aid passengers to effortlessly embark or disembark from the vehicle. The 130 Defender has a longer wheelbase compared to the 90 Defender which is available as a 3-door. Roof rails come in handy when the need to haul more freight arises. Short overhangs contribute to its excellent approach and departure angles. Some models of the Defender come standard with a snorkel which allows this vehicle to cross deep waters without damaging its engine.

The rear encompasses LED taillights and turn signals which echo the front headlights for a uniform look. Its tailgate which hosts the spare wheel opens to the side as functional design elements like gear carriers provide extra storage for more cargo. The Defender is fitted with underbody protection which cushions vital components from damage when off-roading.

ON-ROAD PERFORMANCE

The 2024 Land Rover Defender is available in five engine options, a 2.0 L Turbocharged Petrol (P300) producing 296 horsepower and 400NM of torque. This powertrain delivers a perfect balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The 2.0 L Hybrid (P400e) generates 296 horsepower and 400NM of torque. Long-distance drivers and eco-conscious individuals will find it ideal.

READ ALSO: 2021 TOYOTA LANDCRUISER 300 SERIES

The 3.0 L Turbocharged Diesel (D250 & D300) churns out 245 horsepower and 570NM of torque. Besides its thrilling driving experience, it boasts enough torque that can be used to tow caravans or even trailers. The 3.0 L Turbocharged Petrol delivers 394 horsepower and 430NM of torque. It makes a good daily driver owing to its striking balance between fuel efficiency and performance. And lastly, the powerhouse in the Defender the 5.0 L Supercharged Petrol V8 (P525) produces significant figures of 517 horsepower and 626NM of torque. This engine is ideal for off-roading especially on extreme terrains that require more power. As powerful as it is, its fuel economy is not very welcoming. Individuals who prioritize fuel efficiency will not find it in this powertrain.

The 2024 Land Rover Defender delivers a smooth and comfortable drive. The steering wheel is very responsive and adapts to road curvature making the driver to be in full control of the vehicle. Some models of the Defender feature an air suspension which can be used to adjust the ride height of the vehicle to either improve aerodynamics or clear inclined and reclined surfaces without damaging its body components and also it absorbs road imperfections for an elevated driving experience. The braking system is robust with a high stopping power to mitigate potential risks. Due to its high ground clearance resulting in a high center of gravity, it is advisable to slow down when approaching tight road curves to avoid experiencing body rolls.

OFF-ROAD PERFORMANCE

The Land Rover Defender is renowned for its off-road escapades. The 2024 model is no different showcasing its beastly nature when driving on diverse landscapes and extreme terrains proving to be the best if not among the best formidable off-roaders. Owing to its high ground clearance resulting in elevated angles of approach and departure, this SUV can effortlessly clear inclined and reclined surfaces without damaging its body components.

The terrain response system plays a pivotal role in the Defender when off-roading as it allows the driver to adjust the vehicle’s settings to match the terrain being cruised on. Its wide range of engine options generates impressive figures of torque giving you enough power to beat extreme terrains. Some models of the Defender feature an air suspension system that is used to adjust the vehicle’s ride height. The wheels are all-terrain tires with a good grip on the road enhancing maximum traction.

The All-Wheel-Drive system distributes power equally to all four wheels thus improving traction especially when driving on slippery surfaces like mud, sand, or even gravel. Its locking differential also plays a pivotal role in ensuring momentum is maintained when driving on loose surfaces. A snorkel is available allowing the adventurous enthusiasts to cross rivers or even flooded areas without knocking the engine.

SAFETY FEATURES

As much as capability, comfort, and luxury are largely emphasized, safety remains paramount in the 2024 Land Rover Defender. It encompasses a range of driver-assist systems which work in harmony ensuring its occupants enjoy a safe and secure ride.

These features include an emergency brake system, a blind spot monitor, a lane-keep assist, lane departure warning, parking sensors, a rearview camera, 360-degree parking aid, traffic sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, Perimetric alarm, wade sensing, electronic stability control, and dynamic stability control.

READ ALSO: 2020 TOYOTA RAV4

CONCLUSION

There are cars that can take you from point A to B. There are cars that can take you from point A to B with some bit of comfort and minimal upscale. And then there is the 2024 Land Rover Defender that will take you from point A to B with full access to luxurious furnishings, advanced safety features, comfort, and your entertainment needs fully catered for. What more will you be looking for in a car that has not been encompassed in the 2024 Defender? This SUV conquers urban streets and off-road terrains with equal prowess making it a one-of-a-kind vehicle hence its exorbitant pricing which is worth every penny.

To import this car, you can send your request to EMAIL info@topcar.co.ke OR you can CONTACT +254 722 469 360. Click here to choose the best variety of the 2024 Land Rover Defender 110.

We have developed a network of trusted dealers in Japan, South Africa, the UK, and Dubai who supply us with exceptionally high-quality vehicles. Eliminate middlemen and showroom costs by importing the car with us and saving up to KES 500,000. The import process takes 45-60 days from Japan & one week from South Africa and the car is delivered to your doorstep.