The arrival of a fresh Land Rover Defender model in the United States has been eagerly anticipated. However, one crucial element has been absent – a robust V8 engine. For those who have been awaiting the introduction of a V8 Defender, the latest news from Motor Trend indicates that a V8 engine is on its way to the compact two-door Land Rover Defender 90.
As per Motor Trend, the V8 engine destined for the Defender 90 will be available in two different configurations: one as the flagship model in the regular range of Defender 90s, and a more potent version under the SVR designation for the Defender 90 lineup.
Speculation suggests that Land Rover may turn to BMW to supply this V8 powerplant. While Jaguar Land Rover has its 5.0-liter V8 that graces vehicles like the 592-horsepower Jaguar XE SV Project 8 and various Range Rover variants, evolving emission standards might lead to the discontinuation of this V8. The financial constraints at Jaguar Land Rover could drive them to seek a V8 collaboration with another manufacturer instead of developing a new one in-house, as noted by Motor Trend.
(Hey, Ford: Consider adding a V8 to the Bronco lineup, following the lead of this and the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392.)
Motor Trend has also brought forward some intriguing insights into potential future additions to the Defender family. A larger Defender 130 is anticipated to share the wheelbase of the current four-door Defender 110, providing a third row accommodating eight passengers and increased cargo capacity. With shared underpinnings with the 110, the 130 can leverage existing components like the wiring system and driveshaft layout. Resourceful indeed!
In another testament to innovative thinking at a smaller enterprise, Motor Trend discloses that a diesel iteration of the inline-six Ingenium engine is in the works, though it might not reach American shores. In its place, reports suggest that the powerful 398-horsepower plug-in hybrid Defender P400e is slated for a U.S. debut in 2022. Optimism abounds!
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