Land Rover Unveils Its Most Striking Defender Yet
Land Rover has updated the Defender family and introduced the new Defender Vertex, positioned alongside the X trim. The new version features a more expressive appearance while retaining the model’s key advantage — serious off-road capability.
The front of the Defender Vertex looks noticeably more substantial thanks to a larger radiator grille, new fog lights and redesigned front and rear bumpers. Shadow Atlas Matte trim further emphasizes the vehicle’s rugged character.
The version also gains additional individuality from a gloss black spoiler, yellow brake calipers and contrasting yellow rear towing eyes. New 22-inch wheels are included as standard, while the body color palette and personalization options have been expanded. Another new feature is a gloss protective body film.
It helps protect the paintwork from minor scratches and chips, which is especially relevant for a vehicle designed not only for city roads but also for off-road driving. In Cyprus, the Defender Vertex is already included in the current Land Rover Cyprus lineup alongside the S, X-Dynamic SE, X-Dynamic HSE, X and V8 versions.
New interior and six seats instead of seven
The Defender interior now features new materials, including Forged Textile, as well as Windsor leather and Ultrafabrics upholstery options. An improved climate control and air purification system is designed to make journeys more comfortable for all passengers.
For the first time, the Defender 110 is available with a six-seat 2+2+2 configuration. Two individual seats are installed in the second row, increasing the space between them and making access to the third row easier. At the same time, the standard Defender 110 can still accommodate up to 7 passengers.
Land Rover has also expanded its range of genuine accessories. New options include factory roof-mounted spotlights, additional storage in the rear door, spoilers and dedicated Explorer, Adventure and Urban packs. This approach makes it possible to adapt the Defender to different uses — from city driving to expeditions and outdoor activities.
Artificial intelligence and new technologies
One of the notable updates is an artificial intelligence-powered voice control system. It allows drivers to interact with the vehicle in a more natural conversational format — for example, to obtain information or use various functions without having to search manually for the required setting.
A new Technology Pack is also available for the Defender. It includes a Head-Up Display, Meridian Surround Sound system and ClearSight interior rear-view mirror. Equipment may vary depending on the market and trim level.
At the same time, the Defender retains its core philosophy: combining premium comfort with the capabilities of a genuine off-road vehicle. In Cyprus, for example, the Defender 110 is offered with a choice of different powertrains, while the maximum stated output in the lineup reaches 425 PS.
New engines and the 540 hp Defender OCTA
Land Rover has also updated the Defender engine range. One of the main additions is the 3.0-liter P380 MHEV petrol inline-six with mild-hybrid technology. It produces 550 Nm of torque. The new powertrain incorporates technologies aimed at reducing real-world fuel consumption.
In some countries, a 3.0-liter P300 petrol engine producing 470 Nm of torque has also been introduced, replacing the previous 2.0-liter four-cylinder P300. The 5.0-liter petrol V8 will now be available only in selected markets.
The most powerful member of the family, the Defender OCTA, has received a special update. From the 2027 model year, its 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged petrol V8 produces 540 hp while retaining 750 Nm of torque. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 4.4 seconds, while a deeper and more distinctive exhaust note is intended to emphasize the character of the V8.
Overall, the updated Defender focuses on several areas at once: a bolder design, a wider choice of equipment, digital technologies, new powertrains and expanded personalization options. At the same time, the model’s core idea remains unchanged — a premium vehicle that feels equally confident in the city and beyond it.
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