The Land Rover Defender 110 Hard Top 3.0 D300, launched in September 2020, represents a significant evolution of the iconic Defender lineage. Part of the L663 generation, this variant caters to a market segment seeking a robust, capable, and practical off-road vehicle with a focus on commercial and utilitarian applications, while still offering a degree of refinement. Positioned as a mid-to-high range offering within the 110 lineup, the Hard Top distinguishes itself with a fixed, full-height roof and load space in the rear, foregoing the traditional passenger seating in favor of cargo capacity. It’s a vehicle designed for work, adventure, and those needing a secure, weatherproof area for equipment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Defender |
| Generation | Defender 110 (L663) |
| Type | Hard Top 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 | 2-3 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg, 29.4 UK mpg, 10.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 251 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (NEDC) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 207 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7 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 | 7.9 kg/Hp, 126.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 274.4 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 capacity | 11.6 l (12.26 US qt | 10.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2369-2392 kg (5222.75 – 5273.46 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 2059 l (72.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 89 l (23.51 US gal | 19.58 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.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218-291 mm (8.58 – 11.46 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 13.1 m (42.98 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 30.1-37.5° |
| Departure angle | 35.5-40° |
| Ramp-over angle | 22-27.8° |
| 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 | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc, 363 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 350 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 255/65 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.0J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Defender 110 Hard Top 3.0 D300 is powered by Land Rover’s Ingenium engine family, specifically the DT306, a 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder diesel engine. This engine benefits from a mild-hybrid (MHEV) system, utilizing a 48V electric motor to assist the engine during acceleration and enable smoother start-stop functionality. The Ingenium engine features a cast aluminum block, a variable geometry turbocharger, and direct injection with a common rail system operating at a high pressure of 2,500 bar. This configuration allows for both strong low-end torque and respectable peak power. The engine produces 299 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and a substantial 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque between 1,500 and 2,500 rpm. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, is a crucial component, providing close gear ratios for efficient power delivery. It’s programmed for both on-road comfort and off-road capability, with features like intelligent shift patterns and a manual override mode.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 D300 powertrain delivers a compelling driving experience. While the Defender 110 is a substantial vehicle, the engine’s torque output provides strong acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 6.6 seconds. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and responsively, adapting to driving conditions and driver input. Compared to lower-powered variants like the D200, the D300 offers significantly more effortless performance, particularly when fully loaded or towing. The MHEV system contributes to improved fuel economy and reduced emissions, although the Defender remains a relatively thirsty vehicle due to its weight and aerodynamic profile. Off-road, the combination of the engine’s torque, the intelligent all-wheel-drive system, and the transmission’s programming makes the Hard Top exceptionally capable on challenging terrain.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Hard Top trim is geared towards practicality and durability. Standard features include full LED lighting, heated and cooled front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies. The interior is typically finished with durable, hard-wearing materials, reflecting the vehicle’s utilitarian focus. Unlike passenger-focused Defenders, the Hard Top features a full-height cargo area accessible through rear doors, offering a substantial 2059 liters (72.71 cubic feet) of space. Optional extras include a variety of storage solutions, roof racks, and specialized equipment for specific commercial applications.
Chassis & Braking
The Defender 110 utilizes a robust aluminum-intensive monocoque chassis, providing a strong and lightweight foundation. The suspension system consists of a double-wishbone front setup and an independent multi-link rear arrangement, optimized for both on-road comfort and off-road articulation. The braking system features disc brakes on all four wheels, with ventilated front discs measuring 363mm and rear discs measuring 350mm. Anti-lock braking (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control are standard features, enhancing safety and control in various driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Defender 110 Hard Top has been well-received by critics and customers seeking a versatile and capable commercial vehicle. It offers a compelling alternative to traditional vans and pickup trucks, combining off-road prowess with a degree of refinement. Compared to other Defender 110 variants, the Hard Top appeals to a different audience – those prioritizing cargo space and practicality over passenger comfort. While fuel economy is not a strong point, the MHEV system helps to mitigate this to some extent. Reliability has been generally good, although, as with any complex vehicle, potential owners should be aware of the costs associated with maintaining the Ingenium engine and its associated systems.
Legacy
The Land Rover Defender 110 Hard Top 3.0 D300 represents a modern interpretation of a classic formula – a rugged, capable, and versatile vehicle designed to tackle challenging tasks. The Ingenium engine and MHEV technology bring improved efficiency and performance to the Defender lineage. On the used car market, these models are holding their value well, reflecting the enduring appeal of the Defender brand and the practicality of the Hard Top configuration. The combination of capability, durability, and a degree of luxury ensures that the Defender 110 Hard Top will remain a desirable vehicle for years to come.
