[ad_1]
For future high-performance models, JLR will use the twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 that BMW produces for its larger M cars, under a broad powertrain agreement reached between the two companies.
This alliance began with the intention of developing electrified powertrains, but sources close to the German manufacturer revealed last year that it had been extended to include supplying JLR with a range of internal combustion engines.
Although the use of the 4.4-liter V8 has yet to be officially confirmed by JLR, Autocar understands that it is simply a formality.
Plausibly the 5.0-liter engine is primarily being used to test the Defender’s dynamic responses with increases in weight and power.
However, Autocar understands that the V8 Defender is intended as a special low-volume variant rather than a series production pillar. Land Rover could well be storing the Ford-built V8 for use in the Defender, because emissions targets are far less of a priority for low-volume specials.
Interestingly, sources tell us that JLR’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division is not directly involved with the Defender V8 project; instead, it is a branch of Defender’s existing engineering operation.
It is likely, then, that the engine will not deliver as much firepower as full SVO cars, such as the 567 hp Range Rover Sport SVR. In fact, we expect it to be tuned close to or below the 500bhp mark.
Likely paired with a ZF-supplied eight-speed automatic gearbox, it would still be powerful enough to be a credible rival to the Mercedes-AMG G63, which gets 577 hp from a 4.0-liter dual-turbo V8, but it’s a good deal. Heavier than the Defender.
JLR engineers have previously hinted to Autocar that the G-Class was used as a benchmark for high-end Defender variants and, with the hot G63 accounting for a high proportion of G-Class sales, it is only natural that the British manufacturer want to take advantage of the sector.
Either way, chassis overhauls will be required to ensure the V8 Defender is capable of handling that power. The air suspension could be installed as standard, offering a range of driving modes.
