by Malusi Msomi

Land Rover has taken one of their most capable SUVs and has built it to carry up to 8 occupants on adventures. We guess its true when they say, “The more the merrier.”

The looks

The Defender 130 is the longest Defender in history. Land Rover has extended it by 13.38-inches and by doing so the extension is visible by its extended rear overhang. It’s available in S, SE, X-Dynamic SE, and X trim levels. Exclusively on the three-row Defender, new color choices and trim finishes are available.

Inside

It has a 2+3+3 configuration inside with Land Rover claiming that the third row of seats can accommodate up to 3 adults and is easy to access. The extended dimensions also means more cargo space. With the third and second row of seats folded cargo space offers up to 2,291 litres. With the just the third row of seats folded, its offers up to 1,232 litres of cargo space.

The new Defender 130 comes standard with a larger 11.4-inch Pivi Pro touchscreen and advanced Cabin Air Purification Plus.

Powertrains

All models Mild-Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) technology for better engine response and fuel economy. Every Defender 130 is fitted with Land Rover’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (iAWD) system, an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission and air suspension as standard.

Petrol:
P300 – 3.0-litre six-cylinder, MHEV, 218kW, 470Nm
P400 – 3.0-litre six-cylinder, MHEV, 290kW, 550Nm
Diesel:
D250 – 3.0-litre six-cylinder, MHEV, 185kW, 600Nm
D300 – 3.0-litre six-cylinder, MHEV,218kW, 650Nm.

We are yet to hear from Land Rover South Africa regarding models and pricing for the South African market.