The 2027 Land Rover Defender facelift may look largely the same on the outside, but it brings several important updates under the skin. From major engine changes to new variants and feature additions, this update focuses on refining the SUV’s appeal while keeping its strong identity intact.
Changes On The Defender Facelift
Major Changes In Engines
One of the biggest changes in the facelift is the updated engine lineup. The 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine has been discontinued. This means the 3.0-litre inline-six engine now becomes the entry-level option.
Interestingly, this engine has been detuned in its base form. The P300 variant produces 296 horsepower, which is similar to the old four-cylinder unit. However, torque has increased to 346 lb-ft (470Nm), which is 51 lb-ft more than before. This should improve drivability, especially in off-road conditions.
The more powerful P380 version of the inline-six continues as before, offering better performance with mild-hybrid support. A major highlight is the removal of the long-running 5.0-litre supercharged V8. Buyers who still want V8 power will now have to move to the newer OCTA with the 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8.
| 2027 Defender engine | Configuration | Output |
|---|---|---|
| P300 | 3.0L inline-six petrol | 296 hp, 347 lb-ft (select markets) |
| P380 | 3.0L inline-six petrol | 375 hp / 407 lb-ft |
| P400e | 3.0L inline-six plug-in hybrid | Carried over |
| D250 / D350 | 3.0L inline-six diesel | Carried over |
| 5.0L V8 | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Octa | 4.4L twin-turbo V8 petrol | 533 hp / 553 lb-ft |
Defender Octa: More Power, With Conditions
The Defender Octa remains the most powerful version in the line-up. It uses a BMW-sourced 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine.
In markets like the United States, this engine produces 626 horsepower. However, European versions will see a reduced output of 533 horsepower. This drop is likely due to stricter emission regulations, especially with upcoming Euro 7 norms. Land Rover has also tuned the exhaust system on the European spec to deliver a deeper and more engaging sound.
New Defender 90 Vertex Variant Launched
A new variant called the Defender 90 Vertex has been introduced. It is based on the X trim and brings several cosmetic upgrades.
This version gets colour-matched front and rear bumpers, along with 22-inch alloy wheels. Yellow-painted tow hooks and brake calipers add a sporty touch. At the rear, there is a gloss black spoiler that blends with the black roofline.
Buyers can also choose optional 22-inch gloss black wheels or smaller 20-inch Satin Dark Grey wheels for better off-road ability.
New Exterior Pack And Design Tweaks
Inspired by the Vertex variant, Land Rover has introduced an Extended Exterior Pack. This package is available on X-Dynamic SE, HSE and V8 trims.
It includes extended front and rear bumpers finished in Shadow Atlas Matte. The pack also adds a rear spoiler and a body-coloured spare wheel cover. Buyers get a choice of four different wheel designs with this package.
More Seating Flexibility In Defender 110
The Defender 110 now offers a new six-seat layout. This configuration uses captain seats in the second row and a two-seat third row.
This creates a 2-2-2 seating arrangement, improving comfort for passengers, especially on long journeys.
New Colours And Pricing
The Defender facelift also introduces new exterior colours. These include Woolstone Green for the Octa and the return of Namib Orange.
In terms of pricing, the Defender range starts at $60,250 for the base Defender 90 S. The new Vertex variant is priced at $90,450.
The Defender 110 starts at $66,950, while the larger 130 begins at $75,950. At the top end, the Defender Octa starts at $160,750 and can go up to nearly $190,000 for fully loaded versions.
