Land Rover's latest Defender model - the Defender 90 - gains a new diesel engine and an improved interior as part of its new model upgrades.
Pleasingly, exterior changes are minor - only a revised bonnet profile - keeping this genuine automotive icon true to its roots which date back to 1948.
Defender 90 now shares its engine with the Land Rover 110 - a 2.4-litre, four-cylinder, 16-valve common rail turbo-diesel.
Maximum power is 90kW, more than 90 per cent of which is available from less than 2,200rpm to 4,350rpm. And peak torque of 360Nm is delivered at only 2,000 rpm with over 315Nm available from 1,500rpm - 2,700 rpm.
That broad engine range naturally reflects Land Rover's understanding of how these vehicles will be used by the majority of customers. The engine tune has been developed to tolerate the variable quality and high-sulphur fuels found in some of the global markets where the Defender is sold.
Similarly the engine's lubrication and sealing systems were developed to cope with the tough working conditions and steep angles often encountered by Defender customers.
Compared to the previous model Defender, the new engine's cast iron block, 16-valve cylinder head and Denso common rail fuel injection with solenoid-driven injectors all combine to provide significantly reduced combustion noise. And the Garrett variable geometry turbocharger has been tuned to deliver enhanced throttle response.
Land Rover's tough and reliable six-speed manual transmission has been improved with a wider ratio spread. Taking advantage of the engine's improved torque characteristics, first gear is lower with a reduced crawl speed and improved anti-stall characteristics - perfect for heavy-duty off-road and towing work. Sixth gear is 20 per cent higher than the previous model for more relaxed highway cruising and enhanced fuel economy.
Externally, Defender 90 remains its timeless self - a Land Rover is a Land Rover after all - but the interior has received major improvements with changes to the seats, instruments, audio system and heating/ventilation.
While the dashboard fascia retains its traditionally simple appearance, it's more robust and offers improved functionality such as all-LED instrument illumination.
The heating and ventilations systems are all-new for improved performance - even the side windows now get a demist vent.
Occupants will appreciate the new, taller front seats while second row passengers get two individual units - all trimmed in new, more durable vinyl and cloth trims.
Land Rover Australia has priced the new Defender 90 at $44,990 and orders can be placed immediately to take advantage of the Federal Government's Small Business 50 per cent tax concession. Deliveries will commence in the first quarter of next year.
