First Drive: Defender 90

by Michael Satterfield Photos by Lucas Kepner - 09/03/2021

Few vehicles are as beloved as the original Land Rover Defender, the iconic off-roader gained a reputation globally for its rugged capability and classless appeal. You could spot almost anyone behind the wheel of a Defender from the local farmer to the Prince of Wales, they are just that ubiquitous.  Considered the British equivalent of the Willys Jeep (the original Land Rover prototype was even built on a Jeep chassis), the utilitarian design was part tractor, part passenger car. What started as a simple farm implement became an international icon and the legacy behind one of the most well-known luxury brands in the world. 

But in 2016 the original Defenders over thirty-year production run came to an end and replacing a vehicle beloved by so many would be a monumental task. The new Defender would need to harness the rugged image and styling of the classic Defender but in a modern package. Somehow the 2021 Defender 90 (two-door) manages to tick all the boxes, timeless retro style, rugged utilitarian interior, and the right amount of luxury without being pretentious. This isn’t an ultra-luxurious Range Rover; this is a proper go-anywhere off-road vehicle that is built for the country but is still civilized enough to drive to the city. Plus, it looks even better once you get it dirty. 

I have decided to take the Defender out to its natural habitat, a country estate here in Texas and put it through its paces, this model is the limited production ‘First Edition’ which gets several upgrades over the base model, including a 3.0-liter V6 that produces 395hp, a front jump seat, white contrast painted roof, 20-inch wheels, Electronic Air Suspension, and several other technology features. By far the best option is the folding fabric roof that spans almost the entire length of the passenger compartment for when you want to feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face while driving down a narrow country road. 

Inside is sparse, rubber floors, rugged door panels with exposed body-color sheet metal, simple controls, and weather-resistant materials cover the seats and dash. The First Edition does get a unique leather and woven textile seating combination that looks like it will hold up to almost anything, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob. Looking graceful while getting in and out of the backseat is quite the task, but with the front jump seat the Defender 90 does offer seating for six in a pinch, but it is perfectly comfortable for four adults. Cargo space is limited so plan on adding a roof rack if you want to haul people and luggage.

Out on the ranch the Defender’s air suspension can be set in Off-Road mode which gives the little Rover 11.5 inches of ground clearance, the base model with its standard coil suspension still offers 8.9 inches of clearance, but across the fields, streams, and through the woods, the Defender was confidence-inspiring and felt planted. When the trail gets tight or there are obstacles to overcome the standard surround-view camera system shows both front wheels, so no one has to get out to spot where the big rock is on the trail. The Terrain Response also system takes all the guesswork out of off-roading, simply select the mode Auto, Grass, Gravel, Snow, Mud Ruts, Sand, or Rock Crawl. Combined with the Hill Descent Control and All-Terrain Progress Control systems, the 90 can make almost anyone into an off-road hero. 

While I don’t think you can go wrong buying any Defender, the one that I would put my money down on is the Defender 90 base model. With its simple mechanical suspension, 296 hp turbocharged four-cylinder, and an extensive ala carte options menu, you can be driving a Defender 90 for under $50,000. That is a steal considering a fully loaded Defender 90 X can come in at just over $90,000. 

No matter which Defender model you choose, Land Rover has made it simple to add on accessories to fit nearly any lifestyle. The $1,902 Country Pack includes mudflaps, additional scuff plates, fender flares, and even a portable rinse system. The $2,817 Adventure Pack includes gear racks, an integrated air compressor, and several other off-road-focused accessories. At $4,259 the Explorer Pack is designed for the hardcore off-road enthusiast and includes the Expedition Roof Rack, a raised air intake, and other overland-focused accessories. For the urban explorers, Land Rover offers the Urban Pack, at $1,317 it includes metal pedals, rear scuff plate, front under shield, and a spare wheel cover. 

For those seeking the ultimate adventure, Land Rover has released the limited production, Trophy Edition. Starting at $90,000 just 220 of this special Defender will be sold in the United States. Owners who opt to purchase the Trophy Edition will be invited out to compete in an off-road adventure competition hosted at the world-famous Biltmore Estate in Ashville, North Carolina. The competition will consist of a series of challenges ranging from off-roading to teamwork and physical skills. The winning team from the US will earn the chance to compete in the 2022 Eastnor Trophy Experience in the United Kingdom against teams from around the world. 

The Defender is available at dealerships right now and is priced in the ballpark of the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon or a well-optioned Ford Bronco, but with the Defender, you get to become part of the legend. Even if you never take on an adventure to a distant land, driving the Defender to the grocery store, feels more adventurous, and who doesn’t need a little more adventure in their life.