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 rugged capability. This variant, equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine producing 299 horsepower and incorporating mild-hybrid technology, occupies a mid-to-upper position within the 110 model range. The L663 generation marked the Defender’s transition from a body-on-frame construction to a modern monocoque chassis, aiming for a broader appeal and improved on-road refinement without sacrificing off-road prowess. The “110” designation refers to the vehicle’s wheelbase length, and this particular configuration offers seating for up to seven passengers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Defender |
| Generation | Defender 110 (L663) |
| Type | 3.0 D300 (299 Hp) Mild Hybrid AWD Automatic 5+2 Seating |
| Start of production | September, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 8.9-9.5 l/100 km (26.4 – 24.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 232-249 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (NEDC) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 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 | 8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 299 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 650 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm (479.42 lb.-ft.) |
| 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 capacity | 11.6 l (12.26 US qt | 10.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2396 kg (5282.28 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 231 l (8.16 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2233 l (78.86 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 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 | 13.1 m (42.98 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 30.1-37.5° |
| Departure angle | 37.7-40.0° |
| Ramp-over angle | 22-28° |
| Climb angle | 45° |
| Wading depth | 850-900 mm (33.46 – 35.43 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor, permanent all-wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | 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 |
| 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 D300 is Land Rover’s Ingenium engine family, specifically the DT306, a 3.0-liter inline-six diesel. This engine utilizes a sophisticated turbocharging system and a common-rail direct fuel injection system to deliver a substantial 650 Nm (479.42 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 2500 rpm. The mild-hybrid system, incorporating a 48-volt electrical architecture, assists the engine during acceleration and allows for smoother start-stop operation, contributing to improved fuel efficiency. The engine boasts a high compression ratio of 15.5:1 and features four valves per cylinder. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, is a crucial component, providing smooth and efficient gear changes. This transmission is known for its responsiveness and ability to handle the engine’s torque output effectively.
Driving Characteristics
The D300 Automatic offers a compelling blend of performance and refinement. While not as overtly sporty as some competitors, the engine’s ample torque provides strong acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 6.6 seconds. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering seamless shifts and contributing to a relaxed driving experience. Compared to lower-powered Defender variants, the D300 feels significantly more capable when fully loaded or tackling challenging terrain. The gear ratios are optimized for both on-road cruising and off-road crawling, providing a wide range of usability. However, the added weight of the mild-hybrid system and the larger engine does slightly impact fuel economy compared to the base diesel models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The D300 typically comes well-equipped, positioning itself as a mid-to-high-range Defender trim. Standard features often include leather upholstery, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, climate control, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Optional extras could include upgraded sound systems, panoramic sunroofs, and various off-road packages with features like electronic active differential and all-terrain tires. The seven-seat configuration is a key feature of this variant, making it suitable for families or those requiring additional passenger capacity.
Chassis & Braking
The L663 Defender utilizes a robust monocoque chassis, providing a significant improvement in stiffness compared to the previous generation. The suspension system consists of a double-wishbone setup at the front and an independent multi-link arrangement at the rear, offering a comfortable ride both on and off-road. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes all around, with larger diameter rotors available on higher trim levels. The electronic stability control system is finely tuned to manage the vehicle’s weight and maintain control in various conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Defender 110 D300 received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its blend of capability, comfort, and technology. Compared to the lower-powered diesel variants, the D300 was lauded for its superior performance and effortless towing capacity. However, some reviewers noted the higher price point and the slightly compromised fuel economy. Against competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee and BMW X5, the Defender offered a unique combination of off-road prowess and modern luxury.
Legacy
The Ingenium diesel engine, particularly the 3.0-liter variant, has proven to be relatively reliable, although preventative maintenance is crucial. The eight-speed ZF automatic transmission is also known for its durability. As the L663 Defender ages, the D300 variant is expected to hold its value well due to its desirable combination of performance, practicality, and off-road capability. The mild-hybrid technology, while not a full hybrid system, represents a step towards electrification and may appeal to buyers seeking improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
