The latest iteration of Land Rover’s classic Defender has finally been revealed in full with expansive space options for those with an extra-large family, or lots of friends.
The Defender 130 is the supersized version of the 4x4 beast, which with the capacity for eight seats is bigger than both the previously released Defender 90 Defender 110.
That additional space is created by bolting on an extension, which stretches the vehicle to lengths which might resemble a mini-bus rather than a premium SUV. With a 2+3+3 seating plan, the vehicle has a raised back row so that passengers don’t get too claustrophobic, however with an impressive 2,291 litres of space that should not really be an issue.
Speaking at the launch, Nick Collins, Executive Director of Vehicle Programmes at Land Rover said: “New Defender 130 brings a new dimension of capability to our most durable and rugged family of vehicles. Its spacious interior welcomes and transports up to eight people in supreme comfort, enabling unparalleled sophisticated adventuring opportunities for families, with unique design signatures to create a distinct New Defender experience.”
Those extra dimensions can also be put to practical use with the seats folding down for an almost echo-inducing cavernous space for loading whatever you like.
As to be expected with a vehicle of this size, there needs to be plenty of beef in the engines, which are available with the petrol P300, P400 and diesel D300, although there are currently no plans for a PHEV or V8 engine. The Defender 130 will come with AWD, an eight-speed automatic gearbox, adaptive suspension and Terrain Response.
You can order the Defender 130 brand-new now, but with Land Rover one of many affected by supply-chain issues, you should expect a long wait before seeing this large SUV on your drive.