Land Rover gives new meaning to the term: if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it. This is especially true with their new Land Rover Defender. The basic shape it had when it first came on the market in 1948 hasn’t changed much. This provides both pros and cons, but anything would after 65 years. While Land Rover is a brand that is still as popular as ever, it isn’t as modern or up-to-date as other SUVs and off-roaders today.
Land Rover gives new meaning to the term: if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it. This is especially true with their new Land Rover Defender. The basic shape it had when it first came on the market in 1948 hasn’t changed much. This provides both pros and cons, but anything would after 65 years. While Land Rover is a brand that is still as popular as ever, it isn’t as modern or up-to-date as other SUVs and off-roaders today.
What else should you be aware when purchasing this large off-roader? Let’s take a look.
Advantage of the Defender
- Practicality- One of the biggest selling point of the Land Rover Defender is its massive size. Its interior almost feels like a van, but it appears to be so durable and strong, even on the interior, that you feel like you can throw anything inside and it won’t damage the vehicle in any way. You have the option of choosing between two to seven seats, with the most boot space offered with the model that comes with a hose-down floor. A number of bodies are available as well to suit any need you have, from a pick-up to a convertible.
- Reliability- While the standard satisfaction survey might leave you believing you’ll constantly be replacing car parts, the reality is that with this simple design, there’s very little that can go wrong. While you’ll still have to perform regular maintenance on Land Rover parts, you will most likely find that this maintenance will ensure the Defender remains ready for off-road fun.
Disadvantages of Owning a Defender
- Safety- Because the Defender’s attributes haven’t changed much since its inception, safety is a big concern. Back when it was first offered on the market, car buyers weren’t worried about safety like they are today. Buyers today, though, have to deal with no seatbelt pre-tensioners, no brake assist, no airbags, no electronic stability control, and no crumple zones.
- Comfort- Because this rugged 4x4 was made to be rough and ragged, your comfort level won’t be very high when you climb inside. It has a very noisy engine and the noise from the road and wind, along with a symphony of mechanical sounds and squeaks from a variety of Land Rover parts beneath the bonnet, can be a little unsettling. Comfort has improved slightly for back seat passengers, however, as the seats are front-facing now rather than the side-facing benches older models sported.
- Performance- Getting behind the wheel of this Land Rover is a tiring experience. It’s hard to manipulate the controls, the driver’s seat is right against the door, and the overall dimensions of the vehicle will take a bit of getting used to. You may also find it hard to move the gearstick, the clutch, and the brake pedals. All in all, it feels as if you went through a major workout by the time you’ve reach your destination.
The Land Rover defender isn’t the type of car for everyone. If you want a car that is capable of handling rugged terrain, but has car parts that are reliable and easy to maintain, the Defender is for you. If you’re looking for a large vehicle with off-road capabilities, but still want to experience a comfortable and smooth ride while on the road, choose a different 4x4 or an SUV.
