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Land Rover Defender D350 facelift first drive review: A family SUV for every terrain
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The Land Rover Defender continues to redefine what it means to be a capable family SUV, combining rugged off-road prowess with modern comfort and technology. The 2026 facelifted model builds on the Defender’s reputation, offering subtle design updates, upgraded features, and a hint of nostalgia with the new Trophy Edition inspired by the legendary Camel Trophy adventures.

Visually, the refreshed Defender remains unmistakably a Landie, but with carefully refined details. The facelift brings updated headlamps and taillights with new daytime running light signatures, a redesigned bonnet, revised side vent patterns, and two new exterior colors—Woolstone Green and Borasco Grey. Inside, the cabin now features a larger 13.1-inch Pivi Pro touchscreen infotainment system, offering smooth graphics and responsive controls, giving the Defender a modern luxury feel. Safety enhancements include a Driver Attention Monitor designed to track alertness, while optional adaptive off-road cruise control helps maintain stability on rough terrain.

Performance remains at the heart of the Defender’s appeal. The D350 diesel variant, with its 3.0-litre inline-six engine producing 345bhp and 700Nm of torque, demonstrates the model’s continued off-road dominance. However, in Singapore, the P300e petrol plug-in hybrid variant will be available. This version combines a 2.0-litre engine with an electric motor powered by a 19.2kWh battery, delivering 296bhp and 625Nm of torque. It accelerates from zero to 100km/h in 7.6 seconds, reaches a top speed of 191km/h, and achieves an efficient 14.5–16.7km per liter—impressive for a vehicle of its size and capability.

Where the Defender truly shines is its versatility. Whether navigating steep slopes, rugged trails, or city streets, the SUV maintains exceptional stability and comfort. During test drives in Taiwan, the Defender handled mud, uneven terrain, and tarmac with equal ease, showcasing why it remains one of the most reliable off-road vehicles for family use.

For enthusiasts, the Trophy Edition is a standout, celebrating the iconic Camel Trophy with a unique design and a limited availability, possibly with just one unit offered in Singapore. Meanwhile, the standard facelifted Defender delivers all the benefits of modern technology and refinement without compromising its legendary off-road DNA.

The 2026 Land Rover Defender facelift proves that no terrain is too challenging for a vehicle designed to handle everything from family trips to off-road adventures. With its combination of capability, comfort, and updated features, the Defender continues to be a go-to SUV for those seeking adventure without sacrificing practicality.

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