Pretoria, South Africa – 22 January 2025
Land Rover’s iconic Defender has cemented its reputation for rugged capability, and now it raises the bar even further with the introduction of the powerful D350 diesel engine. This new addition to the diesel line-up replaces the D300, delivering a host of enhancements that elevate performance, efficiency, and refinement.
At the heart of this upgrade is the 3.0-litre six-cylinder twin-turbocharged diesel engine, which produces an impressive 257kW—a substantial increase of 36kW over the outgoing D300. Torque also receives a boost, climbing from 650Nm to a commanding 700Nm, ensuring effortless performance across a variety of driving conditions.
A New Era of Diesel Performance
“The new D350 diesel joins our series of diesel engines known for their impressive power and torque output, especially considering their size and weight,” explains Janico Dannhauser, Brand Manager for JLR South Africa and Sub-Sahara Africa. “The additional power and torque make Defender more engaging than ever, ensuring that everything from overtaking and towing to tackling the most extreme off-road trails is more effortless than ever.”
This powerful yet efficient engine aligns with Land Rover’s commitment to reducing environmental impact. The D350 meets stringent emissions standards, making it a more sustainable choice for discerning drivers. Its lightweight construction not only contributes to improved fuel economy but also enhances overall performance, enabling the Defender to excel both on-road and off.
Enhanced Refinement for Every Journey
Land Rover has incorporated advanced engineering to ensure the D350 engine is as refined as it is powerful. A suite of innovative technologies reduces internal friction, vibration, and noise intrusion, offering a smoother, quieter drive. These enhancements elevate the driving experience for both driver and passengers, whether navigating city streets or exploring remote trails.
Dannhauser adds: “The introduction of the new D350 diesel engine follows a slew of updates announced recently for Defender.”
Elevated Luxury with New Features
The Defender’s appeal extends beyond its powertrain upgrades, with a range of luxurious additions enhancing its versatility and comfort.
Defender 130: Captain Chairs Pack
Defender 130 now offers an optional Captain Chairs pack, delivering unparalleled second-row comfort. These individual heated and cooled seats provide a luxurious experience, complete with an aisle for easy access to the third row. This thoughtful design ensures that passengers in every seat enjoy the ultimate in comfort and spaciousness.
Signature Interior Pack
A standout feature across all Defender body styles is the new Signature Interior Pack, offering premium upgrades that elevate the cabin’s ambiance. Standard on Defender X and V8 specifications, and available as an option for Defender Dynamic HSE, this pack includes:
- 14-way electrically adjustable front seats with heating, cooling, and memory functions.
- Supportive winged headrests for front and second-row seats.
- Climate seats for the second row in Defender 110 and 130 models.
- Heated third-row seats, ensuring comfort for all passengers, regardless of the weather.
Interior material upgrades include Windsor Leather and Kvadrat™ seats, offered in Ebony or Caraway/Ebony finishes, alongside the modern Ultrafabrics™ option in Light Cloud/Lunar. These premium materials enhance the cabin’s tactility and aesthetic appeal, reflecting Land Rover’s dedication to craftsmanship.
Ready for Adventure
The updated Defender line-up, featuring the new D350 engine and enhanced interior options, is now available. Discover the perfect blend of power, refinement, and luxury by visiting www.landrover.co.za/defender.
With its commanding presence and unrivaled capability, the Defender continues to set the benchmark for adventurous luxury. The introduction of the D350 engine ensures this legacy is stronger than ever.
