Born in the aftermath of World War II, the Defender (originally the Land Rover Series I) established Land Rover's brand DNA: practicality and all-terrain mastery. For decades, the Defender has been associated with the world's most challenging terrains, transcontinental aid missions, and even starring roles in shows like "Born Free" and "Africa Adventure."

Land Rover Defender owners on an adventure. Photo: Land Rover Vietnam

For almost 80 years, the Defender has served diverse groups, from farmers and artists to royalty and the British Royal Family. The new generation retains the Defender's off-road prowess, now featuring a unibody chassis instead of the traditional SUV body-on-frame construction.

The current lineup includes three versions: the Defender 90, 110, and 130. The 130 shares the 110's wheelbase but has a longer rear, providing ample third-row space for three adults. According to the Vietnamese distributor, the Defender boasts impressive off-road specifications: an approach angle of 38 degrees, a departure angle of 40 degrees, and a breakover angle of 31 degrees (90) and 28 degrees (110). A ground clearance of 291 mm and a wading depth of 900 mm further enhance its all-terrain capabilities. Land Rover Vietnam also offers high-performance versions like the Defender OCTA with a V8 engine for those seeking superior speed and power.

The Defender's off-road features include permanent all-wheel drive, air suspension with 145 mm of lift and 500 mm of travel, active center and rear locking differentials, and Terrain Response technology, which automatically adjusts to suit different terrains. A 3.0-liter mild hybrid (MHEV) engine option delivers 400 horsepower and 550 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version uses a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 400 horsepower.

The new generation Defender retains the brand's signature design elements. Photo: Land Rover Vietnam

The new Defender's design retains the brand's signature boxy style, featuring classic round headlights, a rearward-sloping roof, and Alpine windows. The interior is practical, offering a range of amenities for individuals and families. A key differentiator is the Defender's customizability, with numerous options and accessories allowing owners to tailor the vehicle to their specific needs.

For off-road enthusiasts, the Defender can be equipped with a snorkel, air compressor, roof rack with side storage box, fixed side steps, and mud flaps. For camping trips, it transforms into a "mobile home" with a roof-mounted tent, convenient ladder, fixed side steps, and a rubber cargo mat. For urban use, options include automatic running boards, interior rubber mats, front and rear mud flaps, side storage boxes, and a color-matched spare wheel cover.

The Defender 75th Limited Edition on a cross-border adventure. Photo: Ky Phong

Ngo Ky Phong (Ho Chi Minh City), owner of a Defender 75th Limited Edition, says the Defender embodies the spirit of freedom and durability.

"The Defender isn't flashy, but its strength lies in its resilience, much like my own style: simple yet limitless. Its design is rugged yet retains a touch of British 'gentleman'," Phong said. "I'm impressed by its durability and comfort – smooth on city streets and solid off-road. On long cross-border trips, I doubt I could have easily managed journeys spanning three countries in a day, or my longest non-stop drive of 2,100 km, without the Defender."

Ky Phong with his Defender 75th Limited Edition in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Photo: Ky Phong

The Vietnamese distributor says the Defender's appeal is sustained by its large and engaged global community of owners. In Vietnam, the company organizes events like the 2024 Defender Experience from Ho Chi Minh City to Bao Loc and Phan Rang, and the 2025 Defender Experience in Sa Pa (Lao Cai).

"These events allow customers to experience the Defender's off-road capabilities firsthand while connecting with fellow enthusiasts, contributing to a growing Defender community," the distributor said.

Quang Anh