By ALISTAIR KENNEDY, Marque Motoring
After a gap of nearly six years, Land Rover has returned the long-wheelbase 130 version to the Defender range alongside the shorter 110 and 90 models.
As has been the long-standing tradition the numbers refer to the vehicles’ approximate wheelbase lengths in inches.
At just under 5.4 metres in length the 130 is an eight-seater in 2-3-3 format with the second and third rows raised slightly above each other.
This together with large windows and twin sunroofs contribute to an airy interior and excellent visibility.
There are a number of exterior and interior design enhancements as well as a new colour palette specific to the 130.
These, together with the standard Bright Pack and optional Extended Bright Pack provide a variety of styling enhancements
Two powertrains are available, both 3.0-litre six-cylinder Ingenium mild-hybrids.
The P400 petrol generates 294 kW and 550 Nm while the D300 diesel has outputs of 221 kW and 650 Nm.
Power is transferred through an eight-speed ZF transmission with Land Rover’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (iAWD) system.
Off-road it uses Rover’s Terrain Response system, which allows the driver to adjust to any terrain via an 11.4-inch the Pivi Pro infotainment touchscreen.
An Electronic Air Suspension system, controlled via a switch panel inside the tailgate, allows for up to 430 mm of articulation, with 71.5 mm of additional lift at the front (73.5 mm at the rear) and a maximum fording depth of 900 mm. Ground clearance is 290 mm.
Towing capacity is 3000 kg.
Storage space ranges from 389 litres with all seatbacks in place, expanding to 1232 litres with the third-row folded and 2291 when both rear seat rows are down.
Family buyers will be assured of maximum safety for the kids with five Isofix child-seat anchors including one in the front passenger seat.
New Defender 130 will come in SE trim only with the D300 priced at $124,150 and the P400 at $131,650, both plus on-road costs.
Delivery is expected from August 1, 2022.
Standard warranty is five years, unlimited kilometres with five-year roadside assistance.
