Land Rover Defender 90 Hard Top (2020 - ) analysis

author: FutureCar Staff    

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 same payload capacity as a pick-up truck, but its relatively short wheelbase enhances its off-road capabilities. For business users in need of a versatile work vehicle that also provides luxury long-distance transport, the Defender Hard Top is unmatched in the commercial vehicle market.

In terms of cargo and practicality, the Defender Hard Top offers a unique proposition. It is based on the Land Rover Defender SUV 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 is smaller than the cargo space in small vans, it is larger than what can fit in the back of 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 an under-floor storage area. Towing is a breeze with a maximum towing capability of 3.5 tonnes.

The interior of the Defender Hard Top offers excellent comfort and features. The front cabin is identical to the Defender SUV, with a two-seat layout that can be upgraded to include a third jump seat. The seats are heated and have electrical adjustment, and the interior features Land Rover's latest Pivi Pro touchscreen infotainment system. The interior space is good for two occupants, and the driving position provides a commanding view. Practical storage options include a glovebox and a deep center armrest cubby that can be refrigerated.

In terms of running costs, the Defender Hard Top is only available with diesel engines. It features Land Rover's 3.0-liter Ingenium straight-six engine with mild-hybrid technology. Fuel economy is similar to some pick-up trucks, but the 89-liter fuel tank provides a range of over 600 miles. Road tax and Benefit in Kind tax are calculated at a flat rate, making it a cost-effective option for business users.

Reliability has been a concern for Land Rover in the past, but the Defender Hard Top benefits from sharing running gear and technology with other Land Rover models, which should improve its reliability. The Defender 90 Hard Top comes with coil spring suspension as standard, reducing the complexity of the air-suspension system found in other Defender models.

The six-cylinder diesel engines in the Defender 90 Hard Top offer plenty of power for towing and off-road driving. The engines deliver strong torque and are paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox. Permanent four-wheel drive and Land Rover's Terrain Response system ensure excellent off-road capability.

The ride and handling of the Defender 90 Hard Top are impressive for a commercial vehicle. The SUV-derived suspension provides a comfortable and smooth ride, and the interior is plush and refined. Motorway cruising is effortless, and the suspension handles bumps well in urban areas.

The safety features of the Defender 90 Hard Top are extensive, with a range of systems carried over from the Defender SUV. These include twin front airbags, electronic stability control, hill start and descent assist, emergency brake assist, and trailer stability assist. The Defender Hard Top has been awarded a five-star safety rating by Euro NCAP.

The Defender 90 Hard Top comes with a generous amount of standard equipment. Features such as LED headlights, heated seats, an infotainment system with online connectivity, and parking sensors are included. Additional options and equipment packs are available to further enhance the vehicle's features and appearance.

FutureCar Staff