Land Rover updates Defender line-up

Land Rover is updating its iconic Defender line-up with new colours, an upgraded stereo and the option of four new contrast roof colours. The 2013 model year Defender goes on sale from September 2012 with prices starting at £22,350.

The Defender was revised last year when the 2.2-litre diesel from the Freelander was introduced but these changes are more cosmetic with two new colours - Barolo Black and Havana. There are also contrast roof colours available so along with the standard Fuji White there's nowSantorini Black, Indus Silver, Orkney Grey or Firenze Red. The Firenze Red paint for example, can be chosen with the Santorini Black roof and the Baltic Blue with Indus Silver.

There are improvements inside too with an upgraded optional stereo. The Alpine Hi Line 150W system has a subwoofer with improved speakers replacing the standard units. The basic stereo remains the single CD unit with an auxiliary input.

Other new options include premium part leather front seats which have been designed to give better support and comfort over the toughest of terrain. The Land Rover Defender continues to offer a range of option packs including the cold climate pack, comfort pack, off-road pack and exterior pack. The latter gets front mudflaps, sidesteps and a rear folding step.

There is just one engine option in the range, the 2,2-litre diesel with 122PS and 360Nm of torque. It gives the Defender a 0-60mph time of 14.7 seconds and a top speed of 90mph while CO2 emissions are 266g/km for the Defender 90 and 295g/km for the Defender 110 and 130.

The vehicle architecture remains unchanged with the chassis frame available in three different wheelbases and in both standard and heavy-duty guise (for even greater load-bearing capabilities). A total of 14 separate body styles – from pick-ups to crew cabs and station wagons – are produced on the mainstream production line.