The Land Rover Defender 110 2.0 P300e, introduced in May 2024, represents a significant step in the iconic Defender lineage, blending traditional off-road capability with modern plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the broader Defender 110 (L663) lineup, this variant aims to provide a balance between fuel efficiency, performance, and environmental responsibility. It builds upon the foundation of the L663 platform, which marked the Defender’s return after a 20-year hiatus, offering a more refined and technologically advanced experience than its predecessors while retaining the rugged character synonymous with the Defender nameplate. This model is primarily targeted towards European and North American markets, where demand for PHEV vehicles is growing.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Defender |
| Generation | Defender 110 (L663) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 P300e (300 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | May, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 2.6-3.2 l/100 km (90.5 – 73.5 US mpg, 108.6 – 88.3 UK mpg, 38.5 – 31.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 60-72 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 191 km/h (118.68 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 118.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 246.3 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 15.397 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Under the trunk |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 42.1-45.1 km (26.16 – 28.02 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 25.4-27.7 kWh/100 km (40.88 – 44.58 kWh/100 mi, 82 – 76 MPGe, 3.9 – 3.6 km/kWh, 2.4 – 2.2 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 140 km/h (86.99 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 143 Hp |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 300 Hp @ 4500-6000 rpm |
| System torque | 625 Nm @ 1750-4500 rpm (460.98 lb.-ft. @ 1750-4500 rpm) |
| Power | 225 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1750 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Ingenium / PT204 |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.3 mm (3.63 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-scroll turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 16.8 l (17.75 US qt | 14.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2538 kg (5595.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3300 kg (7275.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 762 kg (1679.92 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 853 l (30.12 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2127 l (75.11 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 168 kg (370.38 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3000 kg (6613.87 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 120 kg (264.55 lbs.) |
| Length | 5018 mm (197.56 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2008 mm (79.06 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2105 mm (82.87 in.) |
| Height | 1967 mm (77.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3022 mm (118.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1706 mm (67.17 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1702 mm (67.01 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218-292 mm (8.58 – 11.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.1 m (42.98 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 30.1-37.5° |
| Departure angle | 37.7-41.9° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 22-27.9° |
| Wading depth | 900 mm (35.43 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electric motor permanently drive the four wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/60 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The Land Rover Defender 110 2.0 P300e is a five-door, five-seat off-road vehicle that debuted in May 2024. It’s built on the L663 platform, representing the latest generation of the iconic Defender. This PHEV variant combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor and a 15.4 kWh battery pack, offering a blend of performance, efficiency, and all-terrain capability. The “P300e” designation signifies the powertrain – “P” for petrol, “300” representing the combined system horsepower, and “e” denoting the electric component. It slots into the Defender 110 range as a compelling alternative to the traditional gasoline and diesel options, appealing to buyers seeking lower running costs and reduced emissions.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 2.0 P300e lies Land Rover’s Ingenium engine family, specifically the PT204, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger to produce 225 horsepower at 4500 rpm and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine features a relatively high compression ratio of 9.5:1. Integrated with this engine is a 143 hp electric motor, positioned between the engine and the eight-speed automatic transmission. The electric motor draws power from a 15.397 kWh lithium-ion battery pack located under the trunk floor. The combined system output is 300 horsepower and a substantial 625 Nm (460.98 lb-ft) of torque, available from 1750-4500 rpm. The eight-speed automatic transmission, a ZF unit, is calibrated to work seamlessly with both the gasoline engine and the electric motor, providing smooth and efficient power delivery.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 P300e offers a unique driving experience compared to other Defender 110 variants. The instant torque from the electric motor provides brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 7.2 seconds. In electric-only mode, the vehicle offers a quiet and refined driving experience, suitable for urban environments and short commutes. The transition between electric and gasoline power is generally seamless, although some drivers may notice a slight change in engine note. The eight-speed automatic transmission provides smooth gear changes, but can sometimes feel slightly hesitant when downshifting. Compared to the higher-output gasoline engines, the P300e prioritizes efficiency over outright performance, but still delivers ample power for both on-road and off-road driving. The added weight of the battery pack does slightly impact handling, but the Defender’s sophisticated air suspension system helps to mitigate this effect.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 P300e typically comes well-equipped, reflecting its position as a mid-range offering. Standard features generally include leather upholstery, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, navigation, climate control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras include a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, upgraded interior trim materials, and various off-road packages. Trim levels may vary depending on the market, but generally offer increasing levels of luxury and technology.
Chassis & Braking
The Defender 110 2.0 P300e utilizes a robust chassis and suspension system designed to handle both on-road and off-road conditions. It features double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, both equipped with air suspension as standard. This allows for adjustable ride height and improved off-road articulation. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are standard features, enhancing safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Defender 110 2.0 P300e has been generally well-received by critics, who praise its blend of performance, efficiency, and off-road capability. Compared to the gasoline-powered Defender 110 variants, the P300e offers significantly improved fuel economy and lower emissions, particularly for drivers who frequently commute in urban areas. However, the P300e is typically more expensive than the equivalent gasoline model. Compared to the diesel-powered Defender 110, the P300e offers a more refined driving experience and lower emissions, but may not match the diesel’s long-distance cruising range. Reliability reports are still emerging, but Land Rover’s Ingenium engine family has generally proven to be reliable.
Legacy
The Land Rover Defender 110 2.0 P300e represents a crucial step in Land Rover’s commitment to electrification. While it’s still relatively early to assess its long-term reliability, the combination of the proven Ingenium engine and the electric powertrain suggests a durable and efficient powertrain. In the used car market, the P300e is likely to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile and environmentally friendly SUV with the iconic Defender pedigree. Its ability to operate in both electric and gasoline modes will likely ensure continued demand as charging infrastructure expands and environmental regulations become more stringent.
