Land Rover has been producing the rugged Defender since 1948, and recently announced a new, clean diesel engine as the highlight of a set of improvements intended to bring the workhorse up-to-date.

The new 2.2-litre engine replaces the existing 2.4-litre unit, allowing emissions to fall while retaining identical power, torque and fuel-consumption figures. Output remains at 120bhp and 266lb ft at 2000rpm, although top speed has risen from 82 to 90mph. While CO2 emissions also stay the same - 266g/km for the ‘90’ derivative and 295g/km for the ‘110’ and ‘130’ – other EU5-regulated emissions have fallen, making the new Defender the cleanest ever produced. This is made possible by a new engine management system and improved combustion system, as well as a diesel particulate filter for EU5 market models. A new engine cover also reduces engine noise, thus improving refinement levels.

In addition to the engine performance changes, Land Rover is now offering two new option bundles; the ‘Comfort Pack’ includes air-conditioning and an auxiliary music input, while the ‘Off-Road Pack’ adds ABS, heavy-duty wheels and tyres, a tow-ball and under-ride protection bar. Plus tinted windows are now standard on all models.

Prices for the updated Defender start at £20,995, with deliveries commencing in November in the UK.

Text: Joe Breeze
Photo: Land Rover