Defender gets new Jag diesel unit 15 | 08 | 2011

THE UBIQUITOUS 4x4 so enjoyed by Scotland's farmers and land owners, the Land Rover Defender, is to get a new 2.2-litre Euro V compliant diesel engine lifted straight from the Jaguar X-Type … and the Ford Transit.

Now, ok, while it's nice to say your Landie is powered by the same powerplant as the Jag, we're not sure if you should mention the Transit link. That said, Ford's 'White Van Man' favourite is renowned for running almost forever and being ultra-reliable!

The Defender's new engine replaces the 2.4-litre Euro IV diesel, but the smaller capacity engine still delivers the same power (120bhp), torque (360nm) and economy (25.7-28.8mpg) as its outgoing unit. What's more, it's the cleanest Land Rover Defender yet producing 266g/km for the 90 and 295g/km for the 110 and 130 versions.

Read our road test of the Range Rover Evoque

The new 2012 Defender goes on-sale in Scotland from November, priced from £20,995, and to coincide with the launch two new option packs will also be available.

First — for softies — there's a comfort pack for £1650, which includes air conditioning, CD player with auxiliary input, electric windows and remote central locking. Seasoned mudpluggers will be attracted by the the new off-road pack; costing £1500, it includes ABS, heavy duty rim and MTR off-road tyre, tow ball and under-ride protection bar.

In response to customer feedback, a plain black pick-up hood will now be available as an option, while a plain beige hood will be introduced for the 110 Double Cab Pick Up. Both options are in addition to existing styles. A further enhancement for 2012 includes the addition of tinted glass on all models.

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Jim McGill