Defender gets a D350 engine
The automotive industry is undergoing two significant shifts. Firstly, manufacturers worldwide are downsizing their engines for better efficiency. Secondly, tighter emission regulations are forcing carmakers to introduce ‘eco-friendly’ engines in a bid to reduce their carbon footprint and meet these stricter environmental regulations.
In response, Land Rover has announced the introduction of the 3.0-litre 6-cylinder twin-turbodiesel D350 engine to its Defender range. Designed to meet rigorous emission requirements, this engine also aims to deliver enhanced fuel economy, reflecting the brand’s commitment to sustainability and performanceâ”even if it’s diesel, a topic that’s hotly debated in boardrooms as to its environmental sustainability.
The new D350 unit replaces the D300 engine and makes 257kW and 700Nmâ”36 kW and 50Nm more than what’s produced by the D300. This engine has already proven its capabilities in the current Range Rover Sport, where it demonstrated a perfect balance of efficiency and power, seamlessly complementing the SUV’s character. Its introduction to the range is a widely welcomed enhancement.
The engine joins a list of updates introduced to the Defender range in 2024. For instance, the Defender 130 variant introduced the optional captain’s chairs package, which adds individual chairs for the second-row passengers separated by an aisle. These are fitted with heating and cooling technology. Another feature is the Signature Interior package, which comes standard on the X and V8 models and is optional for the Dynamic HSE trim levels.
Priced at R1,870,700 for the 90, R1,904,600 for the 110, and R2,029,100 for the versatile 130, the D350 is a highly anticipated addition to the range and should be a popular option across the lineup.
