The Land Rover Defender 110 (L663) 5.0 V8 P525 AWD Automatic represents the pinnacle of performance within the latest Defender generation, launched in February 2021. This variant, built on the D7x aluminum-intensive monocoque platform, signifies a substantial departure from the traditional body-on-frame Defenders of the past, prioritizing on-road refinement and modern technology while retaining impressive off-road capability. Positioned as the flagship trim, the P525 offers a luxurious and powerful experience, appealing to buyers seeking a premium SUV with genuine all-terrain prowess. It’s a significant offering in the full-size luxury SUV segment, competing with vehicles like the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Defender |
| Generation | Defender 110 (L663) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.0 V8 P525 (525 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | February, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 14.7-15.1 l/100 km (16 – 15.6 US mpg, 19.2 – 18.7 UK mpg, 6.8 – 6.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 332-340 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 12.8 l/100 km (18.4 US mpg, 22.1 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 290 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 191-240 km/h (118.68 – 149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-F |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5 kg/Hp, 201.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 240.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 525 Hp @ 6000-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 105 Hp/l |
| Torque | 625 Nm @ 2500-5500 rpm (460.98 lb.-ft. @ 2500-5500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | AJ133 |
| Engine displacement | 5000 cm3 (305.12 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.5 mm (3.64 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2603 kg (5738.63 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) |
| 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 | 37.5-40° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 22-27.8° |
| Climb angle | 45° |
| Wading depth | 850-900 mm (33.46 – 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, 380 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 365 mm |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Defender 110 P525 is Land Rover’s 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine, designated as the AJ133. This engine, sourced from Jaguar Land Rover’s in-house design, features a cast aluminum block and cylinder heads, direct fuel injection, and a twin-vortex Roots-type supercharger. The engine produces 525 horsepower at 6,000-6,500 rpm and 625 Nm (460.98 lb-ft) of torque between 2,500 and 5,500 rpm. The engine utilizes variable valve timing and a sophisticated engine management system to optimize performance and efficiency. Paired with the engine is an eight-speed automatic transmission (ZF 8HP75), known for its smooth shifts and wide gear ratio spread. This transmission is programmed for both on-road comfort and off-road control, offering features like a manual shift mode and adaptive shift logic.
Driving Characteristics
The P525 delivers exhilarating performance for a vehicle of its size and weight. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes just 5.1 seconds, and the engine provides ample power for effortless overtaking and towing. The eight-speed automatic transmission contributes to a refined driving experience, with smooth and quick gear changes. Compared to the four-cylinder and six-cylinder Defender variants, the V8 offers a significantly more responsive and powerful driving experience. While the lower-powered models prioritize fuel economy, the P525 focuses on delivering a premium and engaging driving experience. The gear ratios are tuned to provide strong acceleration in lower gears while maintaining comfortable cruising speeds on the highway. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various conditions, making it a capable performer both on and off-road.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Defender 110 P525 typically comes standard with a high level of equipment, including premium leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a Meridian sound system, matrix LED headlights, and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. Optional extras include configurable dynamics, electronic active differential with rear bias, and various interior trim options. The interior features a minimalist design with a focus on functionality and durability. The P525 trim often includes unique exterior styling cues, such as distinctive badging and alloy wheel designs.
Chassis & Braking
The Defender 110 utilizes a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Air suspension is standard on the P525, allowing for adjustable ride height and improved off-road capability. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, with larger 380mm front discs and 365mm rear discs. The braking system is assisted by ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution, and emergency brake assist. The chassis is designed to provide a balance between on-road comfort and off-road durability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Defender 110 P525 has been well-received by automotive critics, who praise its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and impressive off-road capability. However, its fuel economy is a common criticism, with combined fuel consumption ranging from 14.7 to 15.1 l/100 km. Compared to the six-cylinder Ingenium engines, the V8 offers significantly more performance but at the cost of increased fuel consumption and emissions. The P525 is positioned as a premium offering within the Defender lineup, appealing to buyers who prioritize performance and luxury over fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The Land Rover Defender 110 P525 represents a significant evolution of the iconic Defender nameplate. While the long-term reliability of the AJ133 engine is generally good, preventative maintenance is crucial, particularly regarding the supercharger and cooling systems. On the used car market, the P525 commands a premium price due to its performance and exclusivity. It is expected to become a sought-after model among Defender enthusiasts, representing a blend of modern technology and classic Land Rover character.
