2024 Land Rover Defender 110 Review: A Modern Classic for the Wild at Heart

The name “Defender” doesn’t just suggest capability, it shouts it from the top of a mountain. This latest iteration promises to be as versatile as your favorite pair of boots and just as reliable, but with a sleekness that’s hard to ignore. The 2024 Land Rover Defender 110 is so capable that its effectively a passport to adventure.  This British charmer conjures up images of exotic safari treks in the remote wilderness, and has come a long way since its Spartan beginnings. Let’s see if this latest iteration lives up to its legendary status or if it’s just an overpriced mall-crawler.

Balancing the Old and the New

The 2024 Land Rover Defender 110 is a masterclass in balancing old-school charisma with modern flair. It’s boxy, it’s bold, and it’s unapologetically itself. The round headlights pay homage to the original Defender while the sleek lines and LED accents scream 21st century. This thing looks just as comfortable parked outside a chic coffee shop as it does tackling a steep muddy trail.

Key Specs & Features:

• Engine Options:
  • 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 with 296 horsepower.
  • 3.0L inline-6 mild hybrid with 395 horsepower.
  • 5.0L V8 with a thundering 518 horsepower.
• Transmission: 8-speed auto.
• Drivetrain: Permanent all-wheel drive with locking differentials.
• Towing Capacity: Up to 8,200 pounds.
• Ground Clearance: Adjustable air suspension allows up to 11.5 inches.
• Water Fording Depth: An impressive 35.4 inches.
• Tech Features: Pivi Pro infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and over-the-air updates.

Defender 110 Trims & Options

The Defender 110 offers a little something for everyone, from purists who want the essentials to luxury lovers who crave all the bells and whistles.

Trim Levels:

1. Base: The no-frills option, but still packed with Land Rover quality. Great for those who value function over form.
2. S: Adds a touch of sophistication with upgraded interior materials and additional tech.
3. SE: A sweet spot for luxury and off-road capability, including a more powerful engine option.
4. X-Dynamic SE: Extra style points with unique exterior accents and interior upgrades.
5. X: Top-tier luxury and off-road tech, including Terrain Response 2.
6. Carpathian Edition: The ultimate Defender, boasting the 5.0L V8, special Carpathian Grey paint, and more exclusivity than a VIP lounge.

A Few Interesting Options:

• Explorer Pack: Roof rack, snorkel, and side-mounted gear carrier for serious adventurers.
• Adventure Pack: Includes a portable rinse system and integrated air compressor.
• Urban Pack: Sleek exterior upgrades for those who spend more time on pavement than dirt.
• Interior Choices: Leather, cloth, or a mix of both. Plus, the option for a three-across front bench seat.

The Defender Fam

The Defender lineup offers something for everyone, whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-on off-road junkie. Here are the trims:

1. Defender 90 (2-door)

• • Compact but mighty.
  • Great for those who want agility on tight trails.

2. Defender 110 (4-door)

• • The sweet spot for families and adventurers alike.

3. Defender 130 (4-door)

• • Bigger, roomier, and perfect for hauling more people or gear.

How Does it Drive?

Behind the wheel, the Defender 110 is an absolute treat. On-road, it’s surprisingly composed for something that looks like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. The air suspension smooths out most bumps, and the steering is quite precise without being too light. But let’s be real here, you don’t buy a Defender to drive to Target.  No, you buy this thing to conquer mountains (or at least gravel driveways).

Off-Road Performance

This is where the Defender earns its stripes. The Terrain Response 2 system lets you customize settings for mud, sand, rock crawling, and more. The adjustable air suspension means you can tackle gnarly obstacles without breaking a sweat. And that water fording capability? Perfect for those unexpected flash floods…or impressing your friends at the lake.

• Hill Descent Control: Keeps you steady on steep declines.
• ClearSight Ground View: A nifty camera system that lets you “see through” the hood to navigate tricky terrain.
• Locking Differentials: Essential for keeping traction in slippery conditions.

The Competition…

The Defender 110 doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Here’s how it stacks up against some notable rivals:

1. Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe

   • Strengths: Legendary off-road chops, plug-in hybrid efficiency.
   • Why it’s a threat: The Wrangler is an icon in its own right, and the hybrid adds a modern twist.

2. Ford Bronco

   • Strengths: Retro cool looks, impressive off-road tech, and competitive pricing.
   • Why it’s a threat: The Bronco has the style and substance to rival the Defender at a lower price point.

3. Toyota Land Cruiser (New Gen)

   • Strengths: Bulletproof reliability, strong off-road pedigree.
   • Why it’s a threat: The Land Cruiser’s global reputation for durability is hard to beat.

4. Mercedes-Benz G-Class

   • Strengths: Iconic design, luxurious interior, V8 power.
   • Why it’s a threat: The G-Wagen is the go-to choice for those who want luxury and off-road capability—if money’s no object.

5. Chevy Tahoe Z71

   • Strengths: Spacious interior, off-road upgrades, strong V8.
   • Why it’s a threat: It’s a more practical option for families who still want off-road capability.

Pros & Cons of the Defender 110

Defender 110 Pros:

• Timeless design that blends tradition with modernity.
• Incredible off-road capability with customizable packs.
• Luxurious interior with plenty of tech.
• Impressive towing and water-fording abilities.

Defender 110 Cons:

• Pricey compared to some competitors.
• Not the most fuel-efficient choice.
• Limited cargo space for its size.

Some Final Thoughts

The 2024 Land Rover Defender 110 is more than a vehicle; it’s a lifestyle choice. It’s for the adventurers, the explorers, and yes, even the suburbanites who like the idea of adventure. While it’s not the cheapest or most practical SUV out there, it’s a head-turner with serious off-road cred and enough luxury to keep you comfortable no matter where you roam.

So, what do you think? Is the Defender 110 calling your name, or would you go for one of it’s the other off-road oriented SUVs? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!