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2022 Land Rover Defender 90 V-8 Review Gallery

Up close with the spectacularly fun and attractive SUV.

May 16, 2022

The 2022 Land Rover Defender 90 V-8.Ross Ballot

Land Rover shocked the world when it brought out the reinvented Defender a few years ago. As groundbreaking and exciting as the styling was, the engine options were underwhelming compared to how great the SUV was off-road and all-around. And then the brand launched the D90 V-8, which had, and still has, us fawning over how remarkable the vehicle is despite its astronomical price. With stop-and-stare good looks, 516 hp, and nearly 8,000 pounds of towing capacity, it’s no surprise that we love it. Let’s take a closer look at a truly special rig.

Good-looking from every angle, the Defender 90 V-8 appears barely bigger than some UTVs.Ross Ballot

Trailer connection points are reasonably easy to get to, but the exhaust outlets point straight into your face.Ross Ballot

Rear-door-mounted spare tire, the way SUVs were meant to be.Ross Ballot

The Defender’s hood has “tread plates” that pay homage to the vehicle’s predecessor. Except here, they are purely for show.Ross Ballot

Some of the finer details may turn off some, but we like the sharp edges and unique lighting treatments.Ross Ballot

Plenty of glass makes even the rear seat of the cabin feel open and airy.Ross Ballot

The controls take some getting used to but work seamlessly once you’re acclimated.Ross Ballot

The digital gauge cluster is easy to read and pleasantly configurable.Ross Ballot

Big wheels and big style. Big ground clearance too.Ross Ballot

As good as it gets.Ross Ballot