Starting next summer, Land Rover is bringing on new versions of the Defender V8 for the 2022 model year as part of an enhanced Defender 90 and 110 line-up.
Earlier this month, Jaguar Land Rover Chief Executive Thierry Bollore said the company’s new “Reimagine” strategy calls for the Land Rover brand to introduce six BEVs by mid-decade. The first all-electric model is scheduled to reach the market by 2024. The all-electric models are expected to generate 60% of Land Rover’s volume by 2030, according to the company’s planning projections.
“It’s time to re-imagine the next chapter for both brands,” Bollore said in a statement revealing the company’s BEV strategy.
Nonetheless, Land Rover is not about to turn away from wealthy buyers looking for power from a bit engine.
Gas power lives on a bit longer
The 5.0-liter, supercharged V-8 in the 2022 Defender 90 and Defender 110, which will be available next summer, will produce 518 horsepower, JLR said.
In addition, the new Defender V8 and flagship Defender V8 Carpathian Edition will offer performance and capability, with bespoke chassis settings capable of delivering new levels of driver engagement and agility both on and off-road, JLR executives said.
The new V8 models also are engineered specifically to be the fastest and most engaging production Defenders with unrivalled agility and driver appeal, they added.
The exclusive Carpathian Edition based on the Defender V8 is described as representing the ultimate expression of Defender design, performance, and capability, while a new XS Edition replaces the successful First Edition and combines bespoke exterior and interior design elements, according to JLR officials.
New vehicle performance
“The introduction of our V-8 powertrain adds a new dimension of driving engagement and off-road capability to Defender. Fast and fun to drive, it represents the pinnacle of the Defender family and is as rewarding on the road as it is capable off it,” said David Hemming, chief product engineer, Jaguar Land Rover.
“We’ve also broadened the appeal of the entire Defender lineup with new derivatives, option packs and enhanced connectivity, so there really is a Defender for everyone,” he added.
The Defender 90 V8 accelerates from 0-60 miles per hour in 4.9 with a top speed of 149 mph, according to specification released by the company.
The Defender V8s also come with an additional layer of driver appeal, through the introduction of a new Dynamic program within the Terrain Response system, which is available only on V-8-powered Defender vehicles. It allows drivers to exploit the more dynamic character and handling balance of the V8 model on tarmac and loose surfaces, according to Land Rover engineers.
Larger-diameter solid anti-roll bars are designed to help reduce body roll in cornering, while the unique Electronic Active Rear Differential introduces a Yaw Controller that allows fine control of the cornering attitude of the Defender V8, they said.
The Defender V8 also features several exterior enhancements such as unique exterior badging, distinctive quad exhaust tailpipes and unique 22-inch alloy wheels combine to set the most powerful model in the line-up apart.
Design and technology
The Defender V8 also is set apart by its Xenon Blue front brake calipers and 15-inch from brake discs.
Land Rover also is expanding the personalization potential with the introduction of new optional exterior design packs. The Bright Pack, Extended Bright Pack and Extended Black Pack boast unique exterior features that will enhance the silhouette of the Defender, Land Rover’s announcement said.
Heightened connectivity is also part of the updates for 2022 with the Pivi Pro infotainment system making available new features, including an 11.4-inch touchscreen. Wireless device charging with integrated signal booster is now as standard for improved convenience and call quality also is included for 2022.
The new models go on sale this summer starting at $47,700 for the Defender 90. The Defender 90 V8 begins at $97,200 and works its way up to $107,200 for the Defender 110 V8 Carpathian Edition.
