Land Rover Defender 12MY. Click to enlarge.

A new, full acoustic engine cover replaces the previous splash cover, reducing radiated engine noise and improving driving refinement. Meeting EU5 regulations, the engine delivers lower levels of the regulated emissions NO_x, CO and HC thanks to an improved combustion system and advanced engine management system. In EU5 markets, particulate matter has been reduced to EU5 levels with a diesel particulate filter (DPF).

Despite the smaller capacity and reduced emissions, the new engine produces the same power, 122PS @3,500 rpm and torque of 360N·m @2,000 rpm, as the outgoing 2.4-liter engine. Performance remains similar too, with a 0-60 mph time of 14.7 seconds as before, though the top speed has been raised to 90 mph compared to 82 mph for the previous version.

The GFT MT 82 six-speed gearbox has been retained for 2012 with its ratio spread, high top gear for cruising and enhanced low-speed crawl capability. The lower first gear offers low crawl speed making towing on-road and off-road much easier. The low-down engine torque also helps in-gear acceleration and the tall sixth gear ensures excellent real-world cruising, refinement and fuel economy. Ground gears in both the gearbox and transfer box help contribute to the refinement of the transmission.

The Defender can trace its roots back to 1948. Since 2002, the Defender has consistently sold an average of 25,000 units a year worldwide to retail and utility customers, armed forces and NGOs in more than 100 countries.