If you’ve got money burning a hole in your pocket, the 2023 Land Rover Defender 110 sport utility vehicle would be a recommended vehicle to put your fire out.
The Defender V8 builds on the rugged 4×4’s outstanding capability, delivering new levels of performance and driver engagement by combining a powerful 5.0-liter, V8 supercharged engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and expertly developed suspension to create the fastest, and most dynamically rewarding, Defender yet.
Defender’s throaty exhaust notes upon startup were enough to draw the attention of my neighbor, a Mercedes-Benz SUV aficionado. He immediately wanted a ride, and later pictures, aptly demonstrating the power of Land Rover.
The engine generates 518 horsepower and 461 lb-ft of torque, accelerating from 0-to-60 miles per hour in 4.9 seconds with a top speed of 149 miles per hour. Not bad for an SUV. Defender 110 delivers unrivaled agility, speed, and driver appeal with versatility and function to take a beating across various off-road terrain.
Featuring two rows of seats, Defender 110 accommodates up to five adults in posh comfort, with plenty of room in the cargo area to transport a wealth of big boy and small boy toys. Defender is rated at 16 miles per gallon fuel economy in combined city/highway driving by the EPA.
Exceptional off-road capability is a Defender hallmark, and the V8 adds a new layer of driver appeal with the introduction of a new dynamic program within the “Terrain Response” system to exploit its dynamic character and handling balance whether on pavement or loose surfaces.
Instantly recognizable, the Defender 110 features a number of unique exterior enhancements; unique exterior badging, distinctive quad exhaust tailpipes and unique 22-inch alloy wheels combine to set the most powerful model in the lineup apart. The Defender V8 is further identified by its Xenon Blue front brake calipers, 15-inch front brake discs, and my tester’s luxurious “Santorini Black” coat of paint.
Inside, the Defender V8 features seats trimmed in unique “Ebony Windsor Leather.” They were both ventilated and heated, with full massage function and the ability to dial them in to perfection.The four-spoke steering wheel is enhanced by an Alcantara rim and tactile satin chrome gearshift paddles, which are unique to V8 models. Leather covers the airbag housing and gear selector, while illuminated treadplates are completed with a V8 script.
Creature comforts were too numerous to adequately mention. My favorites were the opening panoramic roof, Meridian surround sound system with crystal clear, 700-watt sound, navigation pro with 11.4-inch screen, premium cabin lighting, and front center console refrigerator, which came in handy when transporting a quart of ice cream to my in-laws 69th anniversary party.
Completing the Defender 110 V8 package is extraordinary safety and security package. Highlights include a perimetric alarm, stolen vehicle locator, electronic traction control, dynamic stability control, emergency brake assist with adaptive cruise control and stop and go, 3D surround camera, 360-degree parking aid, blind spot assist, lane keep assist, driver condition monitor, traffic sign recognition, adaptive speed limiter, rear traffic monitor and clear exit monitor.
Base Price: $112,775
Price As Driven: $113,695
Destination charge is included in base price. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List
price may vary at local dealerships.
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