2026 Land Rover Defender 90 Model Review with Prices, Photos, & Specs
Key Features
- Starting at $114,400 MSRP*
- Standard 5.0L P525 Supercharged V8 with 518 horsepower and 461 lb-ft of torque
- Configurable Terrain Response, Twin-Speed Transfer Box, Locking Center Differential, Active Rear and Locking Differential
- Functional, durable, and flexible interior with exposed structural elements
- Intuitive 13.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility
- Three available Accessory Packs – Explorer Pack, Adventure Pack, and Urban Pack
- Pivi Pro infotainment system featuring an intuitive interface with Software-Over-The-Air updates
- 3D Surround Camera with ClearSight Ground View and 360° Parking Aid
About the Defender 90
The Defender is an icon in the world of off-road vehicles. It forms the basis of the solid reputation enjoyed by the whole brand and pioneers how new technology is used to improve capability. With its compact wheelbase, the Defender 90 is the lightest and most nimble version of the Defender, the essence of the whole Defender line distilled into a two-door package. The same equipment and accessory packs are available on the 90 as there are on the larger Defender models and that means you can dial in exactly the configuration you want. The cabin is spacious and comfortable, with all sorts of luxury options available. Innovative tech features and cutting-edge driver-assist advancements help showcase the strengths and smarts offered by the premium Defender 90 model range.
What The Critics Say
“If you deem additional speed necessary, the available 518-hp supercharged V-8 is your ticket; we tested a Defender 90 with the V-8 and it hit 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.”
— Car & Driver
“With its stout unit-body chassis, the Defender we sampled, equipped with air suspension, felt soft and comfortable when it needed to, yet firm and controlled on curvy roads. This new Defender is worlds more refined than the appealingly archaic old one.”
— Kelley Blue Book
What’s New for 2026
2026 brings significant changes and updates to the Defender 90. In addition to a notable price increase, the Defender 90 is now offered exclusively in one trim level that’s powered by the high-octane 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine. Along with this streamlined model range, the Defender 90 also benefits from several exterior updates including new bumpers and revised lighting elements. Lastly, every model receives an upgraded 13.1-inch touchscreen display with improved software and a new gear shift lever for the 2026 model year.
Defender 90 Features
Serious Performance
True to its heritage, the formidable Defender 90 continues to place performance and capability at the very top of its priority list. Every Defender 90 is powered by a purpose-built 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine that delivers a remarkable 518 horsepower and 461 lb-ft of torque. When you step on the accelerator and unleash its fury, you’ll experience its unmistakable exhaust note that emanates from standard quad outboard-mounted exhaust tips. A responsive eight-speed ZF® automatic transmission and twin-speed transfer box add even more capability to this bespoke powertrain. Thanks to its short wheelbase, the Defender 90 retains a compact footprint that allows you to excel across even the trickiest terrain. Other notable features of the Defender 90 include its fully independent suspension and permanent four-wheel drive system. Last but not least, the Defender 90 is also ready to tow thanks to an available Advanced Tow Assist feature and a max tow rating of up to 8,201 pounds.
Configured Your Way
Designed to make a statement both on and off the pavement, the Defender 90 features a bold exterior look that’s equal parts stylish and functional. No obstacle will stand in your way thanks to short front and rear departure angles, allowing this rugged SUV to reach areas the competition cannot. It also features an expressive personality that’s equally as unique as yours. As such, you can opt for bold exterior colors like Borasco Silver, Santorini Black, Eiger Grey, and Fuji White along with heritage color options like Godwana Stone, Woolstone Green, and Tasman Blue when outfitting your Defender 90 exactly to your personal tastes. You can also enhance the stance of the Defender 90 by choosing from a wide range of alloy wheels, ranging from 18 to 22 inches in size. Last but not least, three distinct Accessory Packs allow you to equip your Defender 90 to match your lifestyle.
Luxurious Interior
It might seem that something built to be as uncompromising as an off-roader wouldn’t be comfortable, or that the short-wheelbase version of the Defender would have a cramped interior. But neither of these is the case. While there is no third row of seats in the Defender 90, the interior is otherwise the same in terms of both equipment and space. That means comfortable seating for five, in seats upholstered with a choice of three different materials: Resolve, Grained Leather, or Robust Woven Textile, which features Decitex. The 13.1-inch Pivi Pro infotainment touchscreen is standard across the whole lineup, making it easy to see and operate, no matter the conditions.
Trims & Specs
Defender 90 V8
- Starting at $114,400 MSRP*
- 5.0L P525 V8 Gas Engine (518 HP)
- Quad Outboard Mounted Exhaust Pipes
- V8 Badge
- 22-inch Style 7030 Diamond Turned, Dark Grey wheels
- Ebony Windsor leather and Kvadrat™ upholstery
*Starting at price shown is the current Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price and subject to change. Excludes destination & delivery charge ($1,275 for Range Rover Evoque and Discovery Sport, $1,375 for Range Rover Velar, $2,150 for Range Rover, $1,850 for Range Rover Sport, Discovery and Defender). Tax, title, license, and retailer fees, all due at signing, and optional equipment. Base Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes destination & delivery charge and may include optional equipment but excludes tax, title, license, and retailer fees, all due at signing. Total Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price includes destination & delivery charge and may include optional equipment but excludes tax, title, license, and retailer fees, all due at signing. Retailer price, terms and vehicle availability may vary. See your local authorized Land Rover Retailer for details.