Land Rover Defender 90 Hard Top (2020 - ) analysis

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【Summary】The Land Rover Defender 90 Hard Top is an upmarket commercial vehicle that offers excellent off-road ability and is great for long-distance towing. While it doesn't have as much cargo capacity as a pick-up truck, it still caters to businesses in need of a work vehicle that can double as luxury long-distance transport. The interior is comfortable and features premium equipment, and the vehicle delivers good performance and ride quality.

FutureCar Staff Aug 18, 2023 9:17 AM PT

Land Rover Defender 90 Hard Top (2020 - ) analysis

The Land Rover Defender Hard Top is an upmarket commercial vehicle that offers excellent off-road ability and is great for long-distance towing. It may not have the payload capacity of a pick-up truck, but its short wheelbase contributes to its off-road prowess. Business users in need of a versatile work vehicle that can also provide luxury transportation will find the Defender Hard Top to be unmatched in its class.

In terms of cargo and practicality, the Defender Hard Top offers a unique proposition. It is based on the SUV version of the Defender but with the back seats removed and a large, flat cargo area added. The cargo area is accessible through a side-hinged rear door, and the Defender 90 model has a cargo volume of 1.36 cubic meters. While this may be smaller than some small vans, it is larger than what can be accommodated in a pick-up truck with a roll-top load cover. The cargo area features practical touches such as a rubber floor covering, bright interior lighting, fixed lashing points, and under-floor storage. Additionally, the cargo area can be heated or cooled by the climate control system, unlike a pick-up truck.

The interior of the Defender Hard Top offers excellent comfort and features. The front passenger compartment is identical to the SUV version, with a two-seat layout that can be optionally equipped with a third jump seat. The seats are heated and have electrical adjustment, and there are controls for the Terrain Response off-road system and climate controls. The interior space is good for two occupants, and the driving position provides a commanding view. There are also storage options such as a glovebox and a deep centre armrest cubby.

The Defender Hard Top is available exclusively with diesel engines, specifically Land Rover's 3.0-litre Ingenium straight-six unit. It comes with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and permanent four-wheel drive. The engines deliver plenty of pulling power, making them ideal for towing and off-road driving. The Defender Hard Top also features Land Rover's Terrain Response system, allowing the driver to tailor the vehicle's systems to different conditions.

In terms of ride and handling, the Defender Hard Top offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. The suspension is derived from the SUV version, providing a smooth ride and good grip. The full-height bulkhead is the only indication of the vehicle's commercial status, as the interior is plush and comparable to the SUV. The Defender Hard Top also comes with a comprehensive range of safety features, including twin front airbags, stability control, emergency brake assist, and trailer stability assist. It has received a five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP.

The Defender Hard Top comes with a generous amount of standard equipment, including LED headlights, heated seats, an infotainment system with online connectivity, and parking sensors. There are also various options and equipment packs available to further personalize the vehicle. Overall, the Defender Hard Top offers a unique combination of luxury, off-road capability, and practicality, making it an excellent choice for business users in need of a versatile work vehicle.