The 2025 Land Rover Defender is back, and it’s still the king of blending rugged off-road chops with premium luxury. Whether you’re crawling over boulders or cruising through the city, this SUV does it all with effortless British cool. But is it worth the hefty price tag? Let’s break it down.

What’s New for 2025?

Land Rover didn’t mess with success too much, but the 2025 Defender gets a few key upgrades:

• Mild-hybrid powertrains now standard across the lineup for better fuel efficiency.
• New tech features, including an updated Pivi Pro infotainment system with faster response times.
• More customization options—because your Defender should look as unique as your Instagram feed.

The styling remains boxy, bold, and instantly recognizable, with round LED headlights, a floating roof, and that iconic side-hinged rear tailgate (on the 90 and 110 models).

Interior: Rugged Meets Refined

Step inside, and the Defender proves it’s not just a mud-plugger—it’s a proper luxury SUV. The cabin mixes durable materials (like rubberized flooring and wipe-clean surfaces) with high-end touches (such as Windsor leather, aluminum trim, and available massaging seats).

Tech highlights include:

• 11.4-inch curved touchscreen (Pivi Pro system) with wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.
• Meridian 3D sound system (up to 17 speakers) for concert-quality audio.
• ClearSight rearview mirror (turns into a camera feed if your cargo blocks the view).

The Defender is also surprisingly spacious, especially in the 110 (long-wheelbase) version, which offers a usable third row. The 90 (two-door model) is cooler but tighter inside.

How Does It Drive?

On-road, the Defender is way smoother than it looks. The air suspension (standard on higher trims) soaks up bumps, while the adaptive dynamics keep body roll in check. It’s no sports SUV, but it’s comfy for long trips.

Off-road? This thing is a beast. With standard all-wheel drive, terrain response system, and up to 11.5 inches of ground clearance, it’ll go places most luxury SUVs wouldn’t dare. Optional features like locking differentials, wade sensing (for deep water crossings), and configurable Terrain Response 2 make it nearly unstoppable.

Engine Options & Performance

• P300 – 2.0L turbo-four (296 hp) – Good for city driving, but feels underpowered.
• P400 – 3.0L turbo-six + mild hybrid (395 hp) – The sweet spot for power and efficiency.
• V8 (if returning for 2025) – 5.0L supercharged (518 hp) – For those who want a muscle-bound Defender.

Fuel economy? Let’s just say you didn’t buy a Defender to save gas. The P400 averages around 18 mpg combined, while the V8 (if available) will be much thirstier.

Pricing & Trims: Which One to Pick?

The 2025 Defender starts at around $55,000 for the base P300 two-door (90 model), but a well-equipped P400 110 will easily push $70,000+. The top-tier Defender X or V8 (if available) can hit $100,000+ with options.

Key Competitors:

• Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe – More affordable, less luxurious.
• Mercedes-Benz G-Class – More premium, way more expensive.
• Lexus GX 550 – More reliable, less stylish. Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?

If you want a luxury SUV that can actually go off-road, the Defender is one of the best choices out there. It’s more refined than a Jeep, more capable than a Lexus GX, and cooler than just about anything else.

The downsides? Land Rover reliability is still a question mark, and options get expensive fast. But if you’re after adventure with a side of sophistication, the Defender delivers.

Rating: 9/10 – A near-perfect mix of ruggedness and luxury.