The Defender 90: Exclusivity at a Premium Price

Entry-Level Defender 90 Disappears, Price Almost Doubles

The Land Rover Defender, a popular model in JLR's lineup, is undergoing a notable adjustment in its configurations. Reports indicate that the more economical 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder P300 S trim, previously available for the Defender 90, has been removed from the U.S. market. Consequently, the only remaining option for the Defender 90 is now the formidable supercharged V8, which has significantly increased its starting price to $114,400. This change represents an almost twofold increase from its previous entry point of $56,900. For those seeking a more affordable Defender, the medium-wheelbase Defender 110, starting at $63,500, now holds the distinction of being the most economical choice, despite a slight price increase of $2,700 for the 2025 model year. All prices are exclusive of a $1,850 destination fee.

Restructured Pricing Reflects Premium Focus for the Defender Series

The updated pricing structure for the Defender lineup underscores a refined market strategy. While the Defender 90 now comes exclusively with the powerful 518-hp 5.0-liter supercharged V8, the 110 and 130 variants retain broader engine choices. The 110 still offers the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 296 horsepower, and the 130's base engine is a 3.0-liter six-cylinder also producing 296 horsepower. With numerous trims still available for the 110 and 130 models, and the recent introduction of the high-performance OCTA variant, streamlining the shorter-wheelbase Defender 90's offerings seems logical. Although the four-cylinder Defender 90 was capable off-road, its compact nature often made it less practical for general use, with many buyers drawn primarily to its distinctive aesthetic. For this demographic, a two-door V8 model aligns perfectly with a focus on presence and styling.

Future Outlook: Electrification and Model Evolution

While specific sales data for the V8 Defender 90 remain undisclosed, it is generally believed that this variant constituted a smaller portion of the overall Defender 90 sales, particularly given its high cost. As JLR prepares to launch several new electric vehicles in the latter half of the decade, questions arise about the long-term future of the Defender 90. An all-electric 'baby' Defender was confirmed in 2023, anticipated to be named the Defender 'Sport,' potentially succeeding the Discovery Sport. This upcoming electric model, expected by 2027, will compete with emerging electric off-roaders like the 'baby' G-Class. However, recent reports from The Guardian suggest that JLR's electric vehicle rollout may face delays, as the company monitors market demand for electric models.