Flash essay | Land Rover Defender, guardian of tradition

Land Rover relaunched its legendary Defender with great fanfare five years ago. Heir to the Series 1, who, neither plus nor minus, created the illustrious English brand in 1948, this VUS pur jus pursues its magnificent epic in a niche where competition is rare.

Qu’à cela ne tienne, cette contemporary cuvée de l’explorateur d’outre-mer demeure just as irresistible as inimitable. The cubic presentation, which takes its roots in reference to a savant neo-retro mélange, plays a big role here. The already an obvious balance, especially in the 110 version – the standard wheelbase – which makes sure to smooth its extremities to better negotiate with obstacles.

Refinement digne du status

Malgré cette poigne evidente loin des sentiers balisés, c’est surtout cette hand de velours qui impressne. The Defender navigates with ease on fast lanes with an astonishing level of head despite its atypical shape. True, wind noise is unavoidable, but the soundproofing of the rolling stock allows you to have a conversation without having to raise your voice.

The optional pneumatic springs also absorb roughness well while avoiding excessive slack. That said, the temperament of the Defender is defined by an obvious impression of weight and a high center of gravity. It is necessary to lift the foot when turning, but the VUS presents very homogeneous body movements for its stature.

The 3 L turbocharged inline six-cylinder is undoubtedly the most balanced engine of the lot. With a power of 395 hp, it assists the Defender with a good tone, especially in my regime. Its sonorité et sa douceur cannot compete with German motorcyclists. As for consumption, the test week ended with an average of 12 L/100 km.

An exceptional interior

The great attention to detail in the interior is palpable. Based on a very high roof pavilion and an abundant glass surface, it is composed of multiple materials that are pleasant to the touch and robust. The infotainment system is well designed and very stable during testing. The storage spaces are also numerous and cleverly located. In addition, where you are surprised to sit comfortably everywhere, qu importe la taille des passengeres avant.

A very nice exercise that this Defender, if you accept the somewhat high invoice associated with the most decorated liverys and its reliability that remains to be proven.