Land Rover Defender long-term test: report 3

Huge waiting lists underline how popular the Land Rover Defender is, but does it have the all-round ability and feel-good factor to justify its high price? We're living with one to find out...

Land Rover Defender in Cornwall

The car Land Rover Defender 90 D300 HSE Run by Jim Holder, editorial director

Why it’s here Can Land Rover’s reinvented icon really live up to the hype?

Needs to deliver Capability and practicality on and off-road as standard, plus enough wow factor to justify the £66,000 price tag


Mileage 3991 List price £58,875 Target Price £58,875 Price as tested £66,450 Official economy 31.1mpg Test economy 30.8mpg


3 March 2022 – high seating benefits, and higher fuel economy

In the past two weeks, my Land Rover Defender has covered more than 2000 miles, including trips to Wales and Cornwall. It’s tackled motorways, A-roads and B-roads, and even been off road – and it’s felt well suited to everything thrown at it.

Land Rover Defender parked

I must admit, I’d expected the Defender’s sheer size (2105mm wide, 4383mm long with the spare wheel) to count against it on narrow Cornish country lanes, but its height is a distinct advantage. From my lofty vantage point behind the wheel, I can see potential hazards earlier, and I have a great view of the front corners that gives me absolute confidence to place the car on the road.

The long runs also worked wonders for the Defender’s fuel economy; after hovering in the late 20s since delivery, its average is now pushing past 31mpg.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here

Read more on our long-term Land Rover Defender >>

Read about more long-term test cars >>

Also consider