There may be talk of a new Defender on its way with rumors of a concept model making its appearance as early as next month at the Frankfurt Motor Show, but for now, Land Rover is updating the current version with a new turbo diesel engine and the introduction of two new option packages for the 2012 model year.
The most important change of course is the new, EU5 compliant, 2.2-liter turbo diesel engine that replaces the EU4 2.4-litre oil-burner found in the 2011MY Defender.
Despite the smaller capacity, the new four-cylinder diesel delivers the same power and torque as the outgoing unit with 122PS at 3,500rpm and torque, 360Nm (265.5 lb-ft) at 2,000rpm.
The new engine also comes with a diesel particulate filter (DPF), while it’s more frugal and delivers lower levels of the regulated emissions, NOx, CO and HC than its predecessor.
Land Rover says CO2 emissions on the combined cycle are consistent at 266g/km for the 90 and 295g/km for the 110 and 130 models.
Performance remains similar, however, top speed has been raised to 90mph (145 km/h) compared to 82mph (132 km/h) for the previous version.
Power is transferred to all four wheels through a GFT MT 82 six-speed gearbox.
Also new for the 2012 model year Defender is the addition of two new optional packages:
- Comfort Pack – Air conditioning, CD Player with auxiliary input, electric windows and remote central locking, priced at £1650.
- Off-Road Pack – ABS, heavy duty rim and MTR tyre, tow ball and under-ride protection bar, priced at £1500.
Other changes include the plain black Pick Up hood that will now be available as an option whilst a plain beige hood is introduced for the 110 Double Cab Pick Up, plus the addition of tinted glass on all models.
UK sales of the 2012 Defender begin in November with prices starting from £20,995 on the road.
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