If you are looking for a spacious, capable, and stylish SUV that can take you and your friends to the most remote places on the planet, you might be interested in the Land Rover Defender 130. This is the largest and most luxurious version of the iconic off-roader, offering a third row of seats and generous cargo space. But is it worth the extra money and size compared to the smaller Defender 90 and 110? We took it for a test drive to find out.
The Land Rover Defender 130 is based on the same platform and mechanicals as the other Defender models but with a longer wheelbase and body. It measures 201 inches in length, 13.4 inches more than the 110 and 30.6 inches more than the Rover Defender 90. It also has a longer rear overhang, which reduces the departure angle from 37.5 degrees to 28.5 degrees. However, it retains the same impressive approach angle of 37.5 degrees and a ramp angle of 25.7 degrees, making it very capable of tackling steep and rocky terrain.
The Land Rover Defender 130 can seat up to eight people in three rows of seats, although the third row is best suited for children or short trips. The second row can slide forward and back to adjust legroom, and both rear rows can fold flat to create a massive cargo area of up to 79 cubic feet. The Defender 130 also has a side-hinged tailgate with a spare wheel mounted on it, which adds to the rugged charm but can make loading and unloading a bit tricky.
The Land Rover Defender 130 has two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 296 hp and 295 pound-feet of torque or a mild-hybrid 3.0-liter inline-six with 395 hp and 406 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, a full-time four-wheel-drive system, a two-speed transfer case, and an electronic locking rear differential. The Defender 130 also has an air suspension that can raise or lower the ride height by up to three inches, depending on the driving mode and conditions.
The Land Rover Defender 130 is not a cheap SUV, starting at $80,500 for the four-cylinder model and $87,900 for the six-cylinder model. That's about $10,000 more than the equivalent Defender 110 models and about $20,000 more than the Defender 90 models. However, you get many features and technology for your money, including LED headlights, leather seats, a 10-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster, a surround-view camera system, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist and more.
The Land Rover Defender 130 is a great SUV for those who want to combine luxury, space, and off-road capability in one package. It can take you and your friends to places few other vehicles can reach while keeping you comfortable and entertained. It also has a distinctive and attractive design that stands out from the crowd. However, it has its drawbacks, such as its hefty price tag, its reduced departure angle, its cumbersome tailgate, and its hefty fuel consumption.
If you are looking for a smaller, cheaper alternative that still offers the same benefits, consider the Land Rover Defender 90, 110, or the Land Rover Defender P400e plug-in hybrid. They are more agile and efficient than the Defender 130 while still being spacious and capable enough for most adventures. However, if you need the extra room and luxury that the Defender 130 provides, you will be satisfied with this ultimate adventure SUV.
