The Land Rover Defender 90 (L663) 3.0 D300, introduced in September 2020, represents a significant departure from its iconic predecessor while attempting to retain the spirit of off-road capability that defined the Defender nameplate for over seven decades. This variant, positioned as a mid-to-high range offering within the new Defender 90 lineup (the “90” denoting its short wheelbase configuration), combines a 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine with mild-hybrid technology and an eight-speed automatic transmission, coupled with a permanent all-wheel-drive system. It’s designed to appeal to buyers seeking a blend of rugged practicality, modern luxury, and reasonable fuel efficiency. The L663 generation marked the Defender’s transition from a body-on-frame construction to a more sophisticated monocoque chassis, aiming to improve on-road refinement and meet contemporary safety standards.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Defender |
| Generation | Defender 90 (L663) |
| Type | 3.0 D300 (299 Hp) Mild Hybrid AWD Automatic 6 Seat |
| Start of production | September, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 8.7-9.3 l/100 km (27 – 25.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 227-245 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (NEDC) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 199 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 191 km/h (118.68 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-F |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 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 | 2251 kg (4962.61 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 397 l (14.02 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1563 l (55.2 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 89 l (23.51 US gal | 19.58 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank capacity | 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 | 4583 mm (180.43 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 | 1969-1974 mm (77.52 – 77.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2587 mm (101.85 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) | 216-291 mm (8.5 – 11.46 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.41 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 30.1-37.5° |
| Departure angle | 35.5-40° |
| Ramp-over angle | 24.2-31° |
| Climb angle | 45° |
| 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, 349 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 325 mm |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Defender 90 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 with a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and intercooler to deliver a substantial 299 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a robust 650 Nm (479.42 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 2500 rpm. The “D300” designation refers to the engine’s approximate power output in metric horsepower. The mild-hybrid system, employing a 48-volt electrical architecture, adds a belt-integrated starter generator (BiSG) that assists the engine during acceleration, enabling smoother start-stop operation and contributing to improved fuel economy. Fuel is delivered via a common-rail direct injection system, optimized for efficient combustion and reduced emissions. The engine features four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 15.5:1. The eight-speed automatic transmission, also an Ingenium design, is characterized by close gear ratios designed to maximize both performance and fuel efficiency. It offers smooth and responsive shifts, and is controlled electronically.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 D300 powertrain delivers a compelling driving experience. While the Defender 90 is a substantial vehicle, the engine’s ample torque provides brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 6.3 seconds. The automatic transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing seamless gear changes and keeping the engine within its optimal power band. Compared to the base 2.0-liter Ingenium engine, the D300 offers significantly more power and torque, resulting in a more relaxed and confident driving experience, particularly when fully loaded or towing. While not as overtly sporty as some rivals, the Defender 90 D300 provides ample performance for both on-road and off-road driving. The permanent all-wheel-drive system, combined with Land Rover’s Terrain Response system, ensures excellent traction and stability in a variety of conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The D300 trim typically includes a high level of standard equipment. Interior features generally include leather upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a premium sound system. Standard safety features include autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Optional extras often include a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and various off-road enhancements such as an electronic active differential and all-terrain tires. The six-seat configuration provides versatile passenger and cargo space.
Chassis & Braking
The Defender 90 utilizes a lightweight aluminum monocoque chassis, providing a strong and rigid foundation for the vehicle. The suspension system consists of a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, optimized for both on-road comfort and off-road articulation. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, with 349mm discs at the front and 325mm discs at the rear. The braking system is assisted by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brake-force distribution. The steering system is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Defender 90 D300 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of off-road capability, on-road refinement, and modern technology. Compared to other trims in the Defender 90 lineup, the D300 offered a significant performance upgrade over the base 2.0-liter models, while remaining more fuel-efficient than the gasoline-powered six-cylinder options. Fuel economy figures of 8.7-9.3 l/100 km (27-25.3 US mpg) are respectable for a vehicle of this size and capability. Reliability has been generally good, although some owners have reported minor software glitches.
Legacy
The Land Rover Defender 90 D300 represents a modern interpretation of a legendary vehicle. The Ingenium powertrain, with its mild-hybrid technology, provides a balance of performance, efficiency, and refinement. While long-term reliability remains to be fully assessed, the Defender 90 D300 is expected to hold its value well in the used car market, appealing to buyers seeking a capable and stylish off-road vehicle with a touch of luxury.
