The Land Rover Defender 130 (L663) 5.0 V8 P425 AWD Automatic represents the pinnacle of performance and luxury within the latest Defender 130 generation, launched in May 2024. Positioned as the flagship engine option, this variant combines a potent supercharged V8 engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Land Rover’s sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. The L663 series, built upon the aluminum-intensive monocoque chassis, marks a significant departure from the traditional body-on-frame Defenders of the past, prioritizing on-road refinement and modern technology while retaining the brand’s legendary off-road capability. The 130 designation signifies the extended wheelbase, offering seating for up to eight passengers and a substantial cargo area.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Defender |
| Generation | Defender 130 (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 | 5-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 14-14.8 l/100 km (16.8 – 15.9 US mpg, 20.2 – 19.1 UK mpg, 7.1 – 6.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 316-335 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 191-209 km/h (118.68 – 129.87 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6 kg/Hp, 165.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 213.6 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 | 2575 kg (5676.9 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3380 kg (7451.62 lbs.) |
| Max load | 805 kg (1774.72 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 389 l (13.74 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2516 l (88.85 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 | 5358 mm (210.94 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2008 mm (79.06 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2105 mm (82.87 in.) |
| Height | 1970 mm (77.56 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3022 mm (118.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1707 mm (67.2 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 | 30.1-37.6° |
| Departure angle | 24.5-25.8° |
| 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 113H; 275/45 ZR22 112W |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 20 ET41.5; 9J x 22 ET43 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Defender 130 P425 is Land Rover’s 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine, designated AJ133 SC. This engine, a long-running design within the Jaguar Land Rover stable, features a cast aluminum block and cylinder heads, direct fuel injection, and variable valve timing. The supercharger, a twin-vortex type, provides instant throttle response and a broad torque curve. The engine produces 426 horsepower at 5500-6600 rpm and 405.66 lb-ft of torque between 1800 and 5000 rpm. This power is channeled through a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifts and wide gear ratios. The transmission is electronically controlled and features Sport mode for more aggressive shifting. The powertrain is longitudinally mounted, driving all four wheels via Land Rover’s intelligent all-wheel-drive system.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.0 V8 powertrain transforms the Defender 130’s driving experience. Acceleration to 60 mph takes approximately 5.9 seconds, a remarkable figure for a vehicle of this size and weight. The supercharger delivers immediate power, making overtaking effortless. The eight-speed automatic transmission is well-matched to the engine, providing smooth and timely gear changes. While not as fuel-efficient as the four-cylinder or six-cylinder options, the V8 offers a level of refinement and performance unmatched by other Defender 130 variants. The air suspension, standard on this trim, contributes to a comfortable ride, even on rough terrain. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various conditions, making the Defender 130 a capable off-roader despite its size.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Defender 130 P425 typically comes standard with a high level of equipment. This includes premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a Meridian sound system, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional extras include a rear seat entertainment system, upgraded interior trim materials, and various off-road packages. The interior design emphasizes luxury and practicality, with durable materials and ample storage space.
Chassis & Braking
The Defender 130 utilizes a lightweight aluminum monocoque chassis, providing a strong and rigid foundation. The suspension system consists of double wishbones at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, with air suspension standard on the P425 model. This allows for adjustable ride height and improved off-road capability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control system and anti-lock braking system (ABS) work in conjunction to enhance safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Defender 130 P425 has been well-received by automotive critics, who praise its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and impressive off-road capability. However, its high price tag and relatively poor fuel economy are often cited as drawbacks. Compared to the Defender 130’s other engine options – the P360 and P400 inline-six engines – the P425 offers significantly more performance but at a higher cost and with increased fuel consumption. The V8 is aimed at buyers who prioritize performance and luxury over fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The Land Rover Defender 130 P425 represents a modern interpretation of the iconic Defender brand. While the long-term reliability of the AJ133 SC engine is generally good, it is a complex unit that may require more expensive maintenance than simpler engines. As a relatively new model, its long-term reliability is still being assessed. However, the Defender 130 P425 is expected to hold its value well, appealing to enthusiasts and buyers seeking a luxurious and capable SUV with a strong brand heritage.
