Land Rover Defender PHEV: A Hybrid Take on a Timeless Classic
Murali Naidu
The iconic Land Rover Defender, a symbol of off-road prowess and adventure, embarks on a journey into the future with its Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) model. The Land Rover Defender PHEV marries tradition with innovation, offering an eco-friendly alternative without compromising its legendary capabilities.
The L663-series Land Rover Defender is a global success story for Jaguar Land Rover, overshadowing its siblings in sales. Striking a balance between a family-friendly urban SUV and an extreme off-roader, the Defender is versatile. With three body styles - the 2-door 90, the 4-door 110, and the 8-seater 130 - and an array of engines, including turbo petrol, diesel, and now a plug-in hybrid, there's a Defender for every preference.
The Land Rover Defender PHEV, particularly the 110 P400e X-Dynamic HSE model, impresses with a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine paired with an electric motor and battery. This combination churns out 297 kW of power and 640 Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in approximately 5.1 seconds, which is very rapid for this tanker.
Notably, the Defender PHEV shines in fuel efficiency, boasting a claimed 2.8 L/100 km. While figures may vary, its capacity for short all-electric trips significantly curtails emissions, making it an eco-conscious choice. Powered by a 19.2 kWh hybrid battery, the Defender PHEV easily tackles rough terrains and can operate silently on electric power. It can traverse up to 43km on electric power, even off-road, leveraging the electric motor's instant torque to conquer challenging terrains.
The cabin of the Defender PHEV offers comfort, excellent visibility, and a blend of utility and luxury. It's well-equipped with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay compatibility, climate control, heated seats, and advanced safety features.
All Defender P400e models come with 20-inch alloy wheels, an electronic air suspension, and a charging port. The standard Mode 3 charging cable can recharge 80% of the battery in two hours, while the optional Mode 2 cable is perfect for overnight charging. For rapid charging, a compatible charger can top up 80% of the battery in 30 minutes, ensuring the Defender is always ready for adventure.
Riding the Land Rover Defender PHEV feels akin to its internal combustion counterparts. It boasts precise steering, balanced ride quality, and formidable off-road capabilities. The air suspension, terrain response modes, low range, and differentials contribute to its off-road prowess.
The Defender PHEV has a hefty price tag of R2 198 900 compared to its ICE counterparts.
The Land Rover Defender PHEV is a forward-looking iteration of a classic, offering a greener alternative without sacrificing performance or versatility. It's a compelling choice for city dwellers who want efficiency and the capacity for adventure.
