The new Defender V8 does not disappoint and responds to everything expected of an updated version of the technology of the times we live in, but without forgetting the DNA that has made it the Olympus of the 4×4
The new Defender V8 remains the king of 4x4s in the imagination of off-road enthusiasts, thanks to a legacy cultivated by the eight-cylinder Land Rovers of the 1970s. The new and powerful 110 supercharged V8 engine (also the 90’s short version ) does not disappoint and responds to everything expected from an updated version of the technology of the times we live in, but without forgetting the DNA that makes it part of the Olympus of the 4×4.
Aside from its adventurous heart, the Defender is a great travel companion, as it demonstrated on the trip from Madrid to Santa Pola, where highways are the protagonists and comfort is desired. It devours miles without the occupants suffering. To that end, it has made changes to the suspension and transmission, including special-rate springs and dampers and a new electronically active rear differential, which translates into a more agile and engaging ride coupled with greater control.
The beating heart under the hood is Land Rover’s 5.0-litre supercharged V8 petrol engine, which produces 525 PS and 625 Nm of torque, and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. A powerful engine that can go from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 240 km/h. This waste of power has its toll, which comes with a consumption of 14.5 liters of fuel per 100 km (in the test it gave us 16.2 liters). Another improvement is the greater connectivity. It includes the Pivi Pro touchscreen infotainment system with a larger 11.4-inch touchscreen.
Once in Santa Pola, the Defender shows its 4×4 capabilities on short journeys, especially when looking for coves where access is not easy. It doesn’t matter if you get on muddy or sandy roads, the Defender is a life insurance policy that guarantees you’ll never get stuck. We were able to verify it in the coastal route between Santa Pola and Nou Alacant, a protected area where caravanning enthusiasts have found an ideal place to camp by the sea.
The coves in the area have fine sand, with dunes to protect themselves from the wind and where nudists have found their little paradise. The place is perfect for enjoying the beach, but you have to bring everything you need – especially drinks – because there are no beach bars nearby to go to if you want to cool off. The beauty of this area is that you are only a few kilometers from Alicante, so if the peace and sound of the waves tire you, you can head to the capital of Alicante to eat, walk and discover the Santa Cruz district .
The Defender helps you with everything thanks to its driving modes. It includes Dynamic and Terrain Response modes (available on V8-powered Defenders only). This mode assists drivers on both asphalt and less firm surfaces. Sturdy, larger diameter anti-roll bars help reduce body tilt in extreme cornering, and the electronic active rear differential allows the Defender V8’s position to be controlled through corners as it reaches and exceeds the limit of grip.
Dynamic mode in Terrain Response 2 delivers more precise throttle response and specially tuned continuously variable damping with stiffer suspension bushings for instant steering response. It works in harmony with the clutch-sharing braking technology. Externally, the special emblem on the exterior, the quad exhaust system and the exclusive 22-inch alloy wheels stand out.
engine: 525 hp petrol
Dimensions (length/width/height, in meters): 4.76 / 1.996 / 1.967
Trunk: 786 liters
Maximum speed: 240 km/h
Gear: 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds
Consumption: from 14.5 liters
Price: from 139,150 euros
Source: La Verdad
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
