The latest Land Rover cars being tested by the CompleteCar.ie team.
Video player loading.
Video unavailable. Watch on YouTube
This is a proper, hard-working, 4x4 tool - a machine for getting into and out of some of the most rugged and inaccessible places on the planet. It is as close to unstoppable as a vehicle can be. If you don't need that kind of capability, perhaps don't buy one. If you do, though, there's little else like it. Irish pricing: Defender starts at circa €101,050; as tested, €128,910.
Video player loading.
Video unavailable. Watch on YouTube
Open the huge side-hinged tailgate (it's hinged on the right, and the parking sensors can tell you if you're getting too close to an obstacle behind to be able to open it) and you'll notice the distinct hump in the floor, under which lies the hybrid battery and the 90-litre fuel tank. It's a bit of a shame, but Land Rover still quotes an impressive 835 litres of boot volume. Now, it's worth remembering that Land Rover always quotes its boot volume as loaded to the roof...
Video player loading.
Video unavailable. Watch on YouTube
Space in the back of the Defender is excellent, with plenty of legroom and masses of headroom. In the 110 model, there are also 'Alpine Light' windows in the roof which let in a bit of extra light, while rear-seat passengers get seat-back storage nets, a small storage shelf, door bins, USB-C sockets and some air vents too. Better still, the middle rear seat is actually useable - not as comfortable as the outer two, obviously, but sufficiently wide for even an adult to fit.
Video player loading.
Video unavailable. Watch on YouTube
The Trophy model pays tribute to the Defender's legendary off-road heritage, but underneath the extra paint and decals, is the same mixture of rugged luxury and all-round capability. Irish pricing: Defender starts at circa €101,050; as tested, €128,910.
Video player loading.
Video unavailable. Watch on YouTube
The Defender is designed to be rugged and hardworking, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy a touch or two of luxury inside. Irish pricing: Defender starts at circa €101,050; as tested, €128,910.
Neil is driving the Defender Trophy this week. It really is a vehicle of astonishing all-round capability. While most people will refer to this as an SUV, it is a hard-working 4x4, albeit one with the luxury and comfort of an expensive saloon. The 300hp plug-in-hybrid set up gives a decent 40km or thereabouts on electric only power too. Cooler than a Range Rover? Certainly up for debate.
