Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Defender |
| Generation | Defender 110 (L663) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.0 V8 P425 (426 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | May, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 13.8-14.7 l/100 km (17 – 16 US mpg, 20.5 – 19.2 UK mpg, 7.2 – 6.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 311-332 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 191-209 km/h (118.68 – 129.87 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.5 kg/Hp, 182.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 235.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 426 Hp @ 5500-6600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 550 Nm @ 1800-5000 rpm (405.66 lb.-ft. @ 1800-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | AJ133 SC |
| Engine displacement | 5000 cm3 (305.12 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.5 mm (3.64 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.8 l (8.24 US qt | 6.86 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2336 kg (5150 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3230 kg (7120.93 lbs.) |
| Max load | 894 kg (1970.93 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 972 l (34.33 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2277 l (80.41 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%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 150 kg (330.69 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) | 218-293 mm (8.58 – 11.54 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.1 m (42.98 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 30.1-37.4° |
| Departure angle | 33.5-39.8° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 22-27.9° |
| Wading depth | 900 mm (35.43 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| 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 | 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; 275/45 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 20; 9.0J x 22 |
The Land Rover Defender 110 (L663) 5.0 V8 P425 AWD Automatic, launched in May 2024, represents the high-performance pinnacle of the latest Defender 110 generation. This variant, built on the L663 platform, marks the return of a V8 engine to the Defender lineup after a 24-year absence, offering a substantial upgrade in power and refinement compared to the Ingenium four- and six-cylinder options. Positioned as the premium offering, the P425 is designed for buyers who desire a combination of off-road prowess, luxurious comfort, and significant performance. It’s a departure from the traditionally utilitarian Defender, embracing modern technology and a more sophisticated driving experience while retaining the vehicle’s rugged character.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The core of the Defender 110 P425 is the Jaguar Land Rover AJ133 SC 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine. This engine, a long-standing performer in Jaguar and Land Rover’s performance models, produces 426 horsepower at 5500-6600 rpm and 550 Nm (405.66 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1800 and 5000 rpm. It employs direct fuel injection and a Roots-type supercharger to deliver immediate throttle response and a broad, usable torque curve. The engine boasts a 9.5:1 compression ratio and four valves per cylinder. The engine is mounted longitudinally in the front of the vehicle. A ZF 8HP75 eight-speed automatic transmission is paired with the engine, renowned for its smooth shifting and efficiency. This electronically controlled transmission features a wide gear ratio spread, optimizing both on-road cruising and off-road crawling. The powertrain incorporates a Start & Stop system for improved fuel economy and a particulate filter to reduce emissions, complying with Euro 6e standards.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.0-liter V8 fundamentally alters the Defender 110’s driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph is achieved in around 5.5 seconds, a considerable improvement over the four- and six-cylinder models. The supercharger provides instantaneous power delivery, making overtaking effortless. The eight-speed automatic transmission complements the engine’s characteristics, delivering smooth and timely gear changes. While the Defender’s inherent weight is still noticeable, the V8’s substantial torque mitigates this, providing strong pulling power at all speeds. Compared to the manual transmission options available on lower trims, the automatic prioritizes ease of use and refinement. The gear ratios are tuned to balance performance and fuel efficiency, although fuel consumption remains relatively high at 13.8-14.7 l/100 km.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The P425 trim generally comes standard with a high level of equipment, including premium leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, matrix LED headlights, an 11.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a Meridian sound system. Optional extras include adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, and various off-road packages that enhance the vehicle’s capabilities with features like an electronic active differential and Terrain Response 2. Interior trim options include a variety of wood, metal, and leather finishes, allowing for personalization. The P425 is typically offered with the higher-tier trim levels, such as the X-Dynamic HSE and Autobiography, which further enhance the luxury and features.
Chassis & Braking
The Defender 110 P425 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 suspension, offering a comfortable ride both on and off-road. The braking system features ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock braking system) is standard. The P425 typically features larger brake rotors and calipers compared to lower trims to accommodate the increased performance. Stabilizer bars are fitted front and rear to minimize body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The reintroduction of the V8 engine to the Defender lineup was widely praised. Critics lauded the engine’s performance and refinement, noting that it transformed the Defender into a genuinely luxurious and capable grand tourer. Compared to the four- and six-cylinder models, the P425 offers a significantly more engaging driving experience, albeit at the cost of increased fuel consumption and a higher price point. The P425 competes with other high-end luxury SUVs, such as the Range Rover Sport and Porsche Cayenne, offering a unique blend of off-road capability and on-road refinement.
Legacy
The Land Rover Defender 110 P425 represents a significant evolution of the Defender lineage. While its high price and fuel consumption may limit its appeal to a niche market, it has established itself as a desirable and collectible variant. The AJ133 SC V8 engine, while not the most modern powerplant, is known for its reliability and durability when properly maintained. As a modern classic, the P425 is expected to retain its value well in the used car market, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate its unique combination of performance, luxury, and iconic design.
