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Thanks: Global Motorsports Website: 2022 Land Rover Defender Starting at $ Highs Ultra-capable off-road, surprisingly refined on-road, well-equipped interior. Lows Disappointing fuel economy, desirable features carry high price tags, six-cylinder isn't as quick as we'd hoped. Verdict This modern interpretation of the iconic Defender is as impressive and as cool as its forebear. Overview The 2022 Land Rover Defender might look reminiscent of the 1950s original, but in reality it is a completely modern, high-tech off-roader with unique curb appeal. A trio of engines is offered—a turbocharged four-cylinder, a turbo-and-supercharged six-cylinder, and a supercharged V-8—and all come standard with four-wheel drive. The Defender can be had in two-door 90 and four-door 110 body styles, and advanced-duty off-roading equipment is available on all models, including an adjustable air suspension and locking differentials. There aren't many SUVs that are as capable as the Defender, and they mostly come from Land Rover's lineup. Some may consider the Jeep Wrangler a cheaper alternative, but the Defender has it beat when it comes to on-road refinement and available luxury appointments. What's New for 2022? Land Rover is introducing a V-8 engine into the Defender lineup for 2022: the 518-hp Supercharged V-8 that's found in the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models. The V-8 will be available on both the two-door 90 and four-door 110 models; a high-end Carpathian Edition model will also sport the V-8 engine. The package enhances the Defender with Carpathian Gray exterior paint with a black-painted roof and tailgate, black-painted tow hooks, Xenon Blue brake calipers, and special Carpathian Edition badging. A new XS trim is available on 110 models and bundles a host of luxury and convenience features together including heated-and-cooled front seats, leather-and-cloth upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control, an adjustable air suspension, and adaptive cruise control. Land Rover is also introducing a new, optional infotainment display this year and will offer even more accessory exterior packages for customization. An even larger, three-row Defender 130 model is on the horizon, but we aren't sure when that SUV may debut. The Trophy Edition model also joins the lineup this year, but only 220 examples will be available and they all come with a complimentary entry to a Land Rover off-road competition in North Carolina that will take place in fall 2021. Pricing and Which One to Buy Base: $50,050 S: $53,450 X-Dynamic S: $62,050 SE: $67,750 X-Dynamic SE: $67,750 X-Dynamic HSE: $72,350 XS Edition: $74,650 X: $86,550 V8: $106,260 V8 Carpathian: $112,550 As much as we like the look of the two-door 90 model, the four-door 110 is more practical for most buyers. The base P300 powertrain—a 296-hp turbocharged four-cylinder—seems peppy enough for day-to-day driving, so we'd stick with that; those who plan to tackle serious off-road trails may find the optional six-cylinder or V-8 engines to be better choices. We'd suggest the SE trim level as it adds a number of desirable features to the Defender's spec sheet, including 19-inch aluminum wheels, automatic high-beam headlamps, 12-way power-adjustable front seats, and a digital gauge display. Land Rover offers several accessory packages, each of which outfit the Defender with specifically themed features. There's also a bevy of personalization options available, but we'll leave the customization to you. Engine, Transmission, and Performance The 2022 Defender is powered by a standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Of course, every model features four-wheel drive and locking differentials for navigating treacherous terrain. The Defender is also available with a inline-six which utilizes an electric supercharger and 48-volt hybrid system. Buyers looking for additional performance can opt for the 518-hp supercharged V-8, which we hustled the Defender 90 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds in our testing. Unlike its predecessor, the Defender has a unibody construction versus a body-on-frame setup, and it replaces the old solid axles with a fully independent suspension. The base suspension utilizes coil springs, but it can be upgraded with an air springs that enable adjustable ride height. The Defender has 11.5 inches of ground clearance and the ability to ford through 35 inches of water, which exceeds both the Jeep Wrangler's maximum clearance and its wading ability. Read More 📌 Instagram ▶ 📌 Tiktok ▶ @cartvpress
