CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: N/A
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 12
Average Price: Around £57,000

Land Rover Defender (2020-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Combines utility and luxury	The three-door 90 has a tiny boot
Sophisticated and comfortable on the road	Expensive to buy and run
Superb to drive if you venture off-road	Land Rover's poor reputation for reliability might make you think twice

Quick Summary

The modern Land Rover Defender (2020-present) represents a complete reimagining of the iconic utilitarian vehicle. It combines unmistakable character with a breadth of ability that few rivals can match, blending genuine day-to-day usability with levels of comfort and technology that earlier Defenders could never have offered. Available in multiple body styles—the short-wheelbase 90, long-wheelbase 110, and spacious 130—the Defender caters to diverse needs, from family transport to serious off-roading. The flagship Octa variant, powered by a 4.4-litre V8 mild-hybrid engine producing 626bhp, delivers genuinely rapid performance alongside exceptional off-road capability.

The Defender excels both on and off the tarmac, offering comfortable motorway cruising, light steering, and sophisticated handling. Engine options range from efficient six-cylinder diesels delivering around 30mpg to powerful petrols and a plug-in hybrid variant. However, ownership comes with premium running costs, including expensive servicing and maintenance due to the vehicle's elaborate electrics. Reliability should be approached with realistic expectations given Land Rover's broader track record, though the Defender itself has performed well in its class. With a wide range of configurations and engines, there's a Defender to suit most needs—provided you're comfortable with the substantial costs involved.

Best for: Buyers seeking a distinctive luxury off-roader combining comfort with genuine capability, those who value character and versatility, and those willing to invest in premium running costs.

Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers, those prioritising boot space in the three-door 90, or those concerned about Land Rover's reliability reputation.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Defender if: You seek a distinctive luxury off-roader combining comfort with genuine capability, value character and versatility, and are willing to invest in premium running costs.

Consider alternatives if: You are budget-conscious, prioritise boot space in the three-door 90, or are concerned about Land Rover's reliability reputation.

Competitive Position: The Land Rover Defender (2020-present) stands as a distinctive and desirable vehicle in the luxury off-roader segment, combining unmistakable character with exceptional breadth of ability. Whilst the Mercedes-Benz G-Class offers comparable luxury and the Toyota Land Cruiser provides superior value and reliability, the Defender's sophisticated on-road manners, superb off-road capability, and diverse range of body styles and engines make it a compelling choice for those prioritising character and versatility. The Jeep Wrangler, though more affordable, lacks the Defender's refinement and user satisfaction. With multiple configurations available, including the headline-grabbing Octa variant, the Defender appeals to buyers willing to embrace premium ownership costs for a vehicle that truly stands apart.

Read our full Land Rover Defender Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.