Off-road ready:  Land Rover brings back its Defender in a new and improved form

The Land Rover Defender is a vehicle that has a legendary status. When the brand pulled the plug on this model a few years ago, there was a lot of hue and cry about what to expect next.

Soon, the news about a new Defender was announced. The iconic SUV that has been reimagined for the 21st century made its global debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show that was recently held in Germany.

Updated design
The new variant has an immediately recognisable silhouette. It looks tough and ready to tackle any terrain while keeping up with premium-class standards.

There are minimal front and rear overhang for excellent approach and departure angles, and this helps maintain its pedigree as the ultimate off-roader.

Built on the new D7x architecture, this version, like its predecessor will be offered in both 110 and 90 model configurations. 

In the hood
In this latest edition, you get a permanent all-wheel drive with a twin-speed automatic gearbox.

Centre differential and optional active locking rear differential are offered to improve off-roading ability on extreme terrains.

The model also gets a configurable surface response system and a class-leading 291mm ground clearance. 

Land Rover has kitted the vehicle out with an advanced Clearsight Ground View technology that allows the driver to see the area that is normally hidden behind the bonnet.

There is a choice of petrol and diesel engines while a plug-in hybrid version is also in the pipeline and will be on floors next year. The petrol line-up includes a 4-cylinder unit and a 6-cylinder engine.

The diesel variant comes with a D200 4-cylinder unit and powerful D240 unit that also happens to be a 4-cylinder engine.

Smart tech
The British manufacturer has also designed the recent release to be a great daily vehicle for a family as well.

It is touted to be rather comfortable and comes with a host of convenience features that includes classy upmarket interiors, a high-end infotainment system, and durable mats.

You also get a neat new kit containing a remote control electric winch, a rooftop tent and inflatable waterproof awnings.

The final word
Apart from the slew of variants that include the Defender, First Edition and Defender X, you can also opt for the S, SE and HSE specification packs.

Like the original, there is a host of accessories on offer to allow you to customize your Defender.

Expected to launch in India in 2020, the Defender is said to be priced anywhere between INR 70 lakh - INR 1 crore.

— Vikram Gour