Land Rover is set to launch its most potent Defender models ever in South Africa later this year, and we now know how much these V8-powered brutes will cost, thanks to Duoporta. Just take a deep breath …
According to Duoporta, four Defender V8 models are on the menu, with the Defender 90 V8 starting at R2 270 310 and the Carpathian Edition retailing at R2 365 710. The Land Rover Defender 110 V8 is yours for R2 343 910 in standard guise, or R2 439 310 if you want the Carpathian. This is a significant premium over the 294 kW P400 six-cylinder Defender models, which start at R1 264 430.
The Defender V8 is powered by Land Rover’s renowned 5,0-litre supercharged engine, and in this guise it’s tuned to produce 386 kW between 6 000 and 6 500 r/min and 625 N.m of torque from 2 500 r/min. Land Rover claims a 0-100 km/h time of 5,2 seconds for the Defender V8 as well as a top speed of 240 km/h. The V8 is paired with the familiar eight-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive system, and buyers can look forward to a more engaging on-road experience thanks to a new Dynamic driving mode that’s exclusive to the Defender V8.
The eight-cylinder model can be told apart by its quad tailpipes, V8 badging and Satin Dark Grey 22-inch alloy wheels. Buyers can opt for 20” rims, in which case the top speed is limited to 191 km/h.
The Carpathian Edition adds even more distinction in the form of a two tone exterior paint scheme that combines a Carpathian Grey body with contrasting black paint for the roof, bonnet and tailgate. The vehicle’s exterior is finished with Land Rover’s Satin Protective Film that gives it a semi-matte finish and protects it from scrapes and scratches. Other distinguishing features include Xenon Blue brake calipers, V8 Carpathian Edition badging, illuminated treadplates and Miko Suedecloth interior trim.
On that note Defender V8 customers can look forward to ample cabin luxuries. According to the Land Rover website, key features include three-zone climate control, Head-Up Display, a 700 W Meridian Surround Sound system, 10-inch Pivi Pro infotainment system and Land Rover’s Driver Assist Pack.
Like all Land Rover models, the Defender V8 is sold with a five-year or 100 000 km maintenance plan.
Land Rover Defender V8 prices
Defender 90 V8 – R2 270 310
Defender 90 V8 Carpathian Edition – R2 365 710
Defender 110 V8 – R2 343 910
Defender 110 V8 Carpathian Edition – R2 439 310
