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• Land Rover’s Defender D240 S is powered by a 2.0-liter diesel engine.
• The Defender comes standard with air suspension.
• Defender D240 S sells from R1.1 million.
• For more motorsports stories, visit www.Wheels24.co.za
One thing the Land Rover Defender is especially known for is its off-road capability. Until the cessation of production in 2016, the SUV was the vehicle of first choice for many adventurers and off-roaders. It was an especially bitter pill to swallow, knowing that a legend would no longer exist.
But almost as soon as production was halted, rumors of a new Defender began to circulate, followed by sketches and concept vehicles, test mules, and ultimately the SUV that we have here today.
The new Defender, available in 110 and 90 versions, is one of the most technologically advanced vehicles to ever come from Land Rover. Still, the SUV doesn’t give up any of the off-road traits that made it a success during its first incarnation.
READ: Here’s what you need to know about the off-road capabilities of the new Land Rover Defender
Going back for nothing
Our test unit, the Land Rover Defender D240 S, is well-equipped when it comes to its off-road package. The various driving modes are tailored to the conditions one may face when leaving the beaten track. We took the Defender to one of our favorite tracks for a shakedown where most of its off-road setups could be tested.
The course offers a variety of obstacles, including sand, rocks, slopes, and water.
Drivers can switch between the various modes on the SUV’s dash, and the electronics will adjust the engine and throttle mapping for the chosen mode. The Defender comes standard with Land Rover’s Terrain Response system, as well as electronic air suspension with adaptive dynamics.
Since the Defender is a renowned off-roader, potential users will appreciate these SUV features.
Land Rover Defender 2020 (Cayne Philander / Eighty photograph)
2.0 liter power
The Defender D240 S is the second most affordable diesel model in the 110 range. It is retailed for R1 111 142 and is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 177 kW and 430 Nm. In off-road conditions, the engine has enough bypass to maintain forward momentum, and the eight-speed automatic gearbox works well to funnel the right amount of power to the 18-inch tires.
With air suspension, users can increase the Defender’s ride height from 218mm to 291mm, and it has a maximum wading depth of 900mm.
The Defender does a little work with the slopes too, with approach and departure angles of 30.1 and 37.7 degrees, respectively. Its ramp angle is 22 degrees.
The new Defender is a good off-road vehicle and will continue to impress in the most challenging conditions.
Have you taken the new Defender off-road? Email us your experience.
2020 Land Rover Defender (Cayne Philander / Eighty Photography)
