The Land Rover Defender 90 (L663) 3.0 P400 represents a significant evolution in the iconic Defender lineage, launched in February 2020 and continuing through May 2024. This variant, positioned as a mid-to-high range offering within the new Defender 90 (short wheelbase) lineup, combines a potent 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine with mild hybrid technology and an eight-speed automatic transmission, coupled with a full-time all-wheel-drive system. It aimed to deliver a blend of off-road capability, on-road refinement, and modern technology, appealing to buyers seeking a premium and versatile SUV. The L663 generation marked a departure from the traditional body-on-frame construction of its predecessors, adopting a more sophisticated monocoque chassis for improved rigidity and comfort.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Land Rover |
| Model | Defender |
| Generation | Defender 90 (L663) |
| Type | 3.0 P400 (400 Hp) Mild Hybrid AWD Automatic 6 Seat |
| Start of production | February, 2020 |
| End of production | May, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 14.7-15.5 l/100 km (16 – 15.2 US mpg, 19.2 – 18.2 UK mpg, 6.8 – 6.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 10.5-11.2 l/100 km (22.4 – 21 US mpg, 26.9 – 25.2 UK mpg, 9.5 – 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 9.3-10.1 l/100 km (25.3 – 23.3 US mpg, 30.4 – 28 UK mpg, 10.8 – 9.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 11.6-12.7 l/100 km (20.3 – 18.5 US mpg, 24.4 – 22.2 UK mpg, 8.6 – 7.9 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 11.1-12.0 l/100 km (21.2 – 19.6 US mpg, 25.4 – 23.5 UK mpg, 9 – 8.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 252-272 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 12.1-12.4 l/100 km (19.4 – 19 US mpg, 23.3 – 22.8 UK mpg, 8.3 – 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 8.1-8.4 l/100 km (29 – 28 US mpg, 34.9 – 33.6 UK mpg, 12.3 – 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 9.6-9.9 l/100 km (24.5 – 23.8 US mpg, 29.4 – 28.5 UK mpg, 10.4 – 10.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 219-226 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 191 km/h (118.68 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.5 kg/Hp, 182.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 250.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 400 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 133.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 550 Nm @ 2000-5000 rpm (405.66 lb.-ft. @ 2000-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Ingenium / PT306 |
| Engine displacement | 2996 cm3 (182.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.29 mm (3.63 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.8 l (9.3 US qt | 7.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.4 l (13.1 US qt | 10.91 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2193 kg (4834.74 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3000 kg (6613.87 lbs.) |
| Max load | 807 kg (1779.13 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 397 l (14.02 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1563 l (55.2 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 88.5 l (23.38 US gal | 19.47 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100-118 kg (220.46 – 260.15 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 | 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 | 1704-1706 mm (67.09 – 67.17 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1702 mm (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) | 0.4 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.0 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 30.1-38.0° |
| Departure angle | 37.6-40.0° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 24.2-31.0° |
| 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 and type of gearbox | 8 gears, 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 Steering |
| Tires size | 255/70 R18; 255/65 R19; 255/60 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 8J x 19; 8.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Defender 90 P400 lies the Ingenium engine family’s 2.996-liter inline-six cylinder engine, designated as the PT306. This engine utilizes a single twin-scroll turbocharger and direct fuel injection to produce 400 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 550 Nm (405.66 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2000 and 5000 rpm. The mild hybrid system, incorporating a 48-volt electrical architecture, adds a belt-integrated starter generator (BiSG) that assists the engine during acceleration and enables smoother start-stop functionality. This system contributes to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine’s aluminum block and head, combined with variable valve timing, contribute to its responsiveness and efficiency. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, is calibrated to provide smooth and efficient gear changes, optimized for both on-road comfort and off-road control.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 P400 variant delivers a noticeably more spirited driving experience compared to lower-powered Defender 90 models. The readily available torque from the inline-six engine provides strong acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 5.7 seconds. The automatic transmission effectively manages the power delivery, offering quick downshifts for overtaking and maintaining momentum on challenging terrain. While not as fuel-efficient as the four-cylinder options, the P400 offers a compelling balance of performance and capability. The eight-speed transmission’s gear ratios are well-suited to both highway cruising and low-speed off-road maneuvering. Compared to a hypothetical manual transmission version (not offered in this configuration), the automatic prioritizes ease of use and refinement, making it ideal for everyday driving and towing.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Defender 90 P400 typically came well-equipped, often including features such as leather upholstery, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a premium sound system, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, heated and cooled seats, a head-up display, and various off-road packages with features like electronic active differential and all-terrain tires. Interior trim options varied, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin with different color schemes and material choices. The six-seat configuration was standard, offering flexible seating arrangements for passengers and cargo.
Chassis & Braking
The Defender 90 P400 utilizes a lightweight aluminum monocoque chassis, providing a strong and rigid foundation for the vehicle. The suspension system consists of independent double-wishbone suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, offering a comfortable ride and excellent handling characteristics. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with larger front discs (363mm) compared to some lower-spec models. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are standard features, enhancing safety and control in various driving conditions. The P400 variant often featured upgraded stabilizer bars for reduced body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Defender 90 P400 received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, refined ride quality, and impressive off-road capability. However, some reviewers noted the relatively high price tag and the fuel consumption, which was higher than that of the four-cylinder models. Compared to the 2.0-liter Ingenium engine variants, the P400 offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher cost. Against competitors like the Jeep Wrangler and Mercedes-Benz G-Class, the Defender 90 P400 stood out for its blend of luxury, technology, and off-road prowess.
Legacy
The Land Rover Defender 90 P400 represents a modern interpretation of a legendary vehicle. While still relatively new, the Ingenium engine and ZF transmission have proven to be reliable units in other Land Rover and Jaguar applications. Early reports suggest good long-term reliability, although the complexity of the mild hybrid system may require specialized maintenance. On the used car market, the P400 variant commands a premium price due to its performance and desirable features, appealing to buyers seeking a capable and luxurious SUV with a strong brand reputation.
