The Land Rover Defender 110 (L663) 3.0 D300, introduced in September 2020, represents a significant departure from its iconic predecessor while attempting to retain the spirit of off-road capability that defined the Defender name. This variant, powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine producing 299 horsepower and incorporating mild-hybrid technology, occupies a mid-to-upper position within the L663 Defender 110 lineup. It’s designed to appeal to buyers seeking a blend of performance, refinement, and all-terrain prowess. The L663 generation marked the Defender’s transition from a rugged, utilitarian vehicle to a more modern, luxurious SUV, broadening its appeal to a wider audience while still maintaining a strong presence in the off-road community.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Defender |
| Generation | Defender 110 (L663) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 D300 (299 Hp) Mild Hybrid AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 8.8-9.5 l/100 km (26.7 – 24.8 US mpg, 32.1 – 29.7 UK mpg, 11.4 – 10.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 230-248 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 200 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.0 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.0 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 191 km/h (118.68 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-F |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 127.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 277.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 299 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 99.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 650 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm (479.42 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2500 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | Ingenium / DT306 |
| Engine displacement | 2996 cm3 (182.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83.01 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.3 mm (3.63 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.8 l (9.3 US qt | 7.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.6 l (12.26 US qt | 10.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2340 kg (5158.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 972 l (34.33 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2277 l (80.41 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 89 l (23.51 US gal | 19.58 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 20.7 l (5.47 US gal | 4.55 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 5018 mm (197.56 in.) |
| Width | 1996 mm (78.58 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2008 mm (79.06 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2105 mm (82.87 in.) |
| Height | 1967-1972 mm (77.44 – 77.64 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3022 mm (118.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1701-1706 mm (66.97 – 67.17 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1697-1702 mm (66.81 – 67.01 in.) |
| Front overhang | 845 mm (33.27 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1151 mm (45.31 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218-291 mm (8.58 – 11.46 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.41 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.1 m (42.98 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 30.1-37.5° |
| Departure angle | 37.7-40.0° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 22-28° |
| Climb angle | 45° |
| Wading depth | 850-900 mm (33.46 – 35.43 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor permanently drive all four wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc, 349-380 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 325-365 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/70 R18; 255/65 R19; 255/60 R20; 275/45 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.0J x 18; 8.0J x 19; 8.5J x 20; 9.0J x 22 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Defender 110 D300 is Land Rover’s Ingenium 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine, designated DT306. This engine utilizes a sophisticated diesel commonrail fuel injection system and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver a robust 299 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 650 Nm (479.42 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 2500 rpm. The engine features a high compression ratio of 15.5:1 and 4 valves per cylinder. The ‘D300’ designation signifies the approximate power output in metric horsepower. Crucially, this engine incorporates mild-hybrid technology, employing a 48-volt electrical system and a belt-integrated starter generator (BiSG). The BiSG assists the engine during acceleration, allowing for smoother starts and stops, and enables the engine to shut off during coasting and braking, improving fuel efficiency. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifts and wide gear ratio spread. This transmission is calibrated to provide a balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 D300 automatic configuration delivers a compelling driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some competitors, the engine provides ample torque for effortless acceleration and confident overtaking. The eight-speed automatic transmission contributes to relaxed cruising, and the mild-hybrid system helps to mitigate turbo lag. Compared to lower-powered versions of the Defender 110, such as the D200, the D300 offers a noticeable performance upgrade, particularly when fully loaded or tackling challenging terrain. The gear ratios are optimized for both on-road efficiency and low-speed off-road control. While a manual transmission isn’t offered with this engine, the automatic provides responsive shifts and allows the driver to focus on navigating difficult conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Defender 110 D300 typically comes well-equipped, reflecting its position in the lineup. Standard features often include LED headlights, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Higher trim levels offer additional luxuries like premium audio systems, configurable ambient lighting, and more sophisticated leather options. Optional extras include an electronic active differential, adaptive cruise control, and a panoramic sunroof.
Chassis & Braking
The Defender 110 utilizes a robust aluminum-intensive monocoque chassis, providing a strong and lightweight foundation. The suspension consists of a double-wishbone front setup and an independent multi-link rear arrangement. The D300 variant typically features larger brakes than lower-spec models, with front discs ranging from 349-380mm and rear discs from 325-365mm, ensuring ample stopping power. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride on paved roads while maintaining excellent off-road articulation and capability. Electronic air suspension is often available as an option, allowing for adjustable ride height and further enhancing off-road performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Defender 110 D300 received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, refinement, and off-road capability. Fuel economy, while respectable for a vehicle of its size and weight (8.8-9.5 l/100 km), wasn’t a standout feature. Compared to the D200 and D250 variants, the D300 offered a significant power boost, justifying its higher price point for buyers prioritizing performance. Reliability reports have been mixed, with some owners reporting minor electronic glitches, but overall, the Ingenium engine has proven to be relatively durable.
Legacy
The Land Rover Defender 110 D300 represents a pivotal moment in the Defender lineage. It successfully modernized the iconic vehicle while retaining its core off-road DNA. The Ingenium engine, with its mild-hybrid technology, demonstrates Land Rover’s commitment to improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. On the used car market, the D300 variant holds its value well, appealing to buyers seeking a capable and well-equipped luxury SUV with genuine off-road credentials. Its long-term reliability appears promising, although regular maintenance and adherence to Land Rover’s service schedule are crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
