Land Rover has refreshed its iconic Defender for the 2027 model year, introducing the new Vertex edition as a city-slicking yet rugged variant that expands the model's appeal beyond pure off-roading. Positioned alongside the high-spec X trim and available across 90, 110, and 130 bodystyles, the Vertex delivers a bolder, more urban-oriented aesthetic while preserving the Defender's legendary capability. The Vertex stands out with an Extended Exterior Pack-inspired design: extended front and rear bumpers in Shadow Atlas Matte, a larger profiled front grille, revised fog lamps, body-coloured lower cladding and sills for a lower visual stance, plus a subtle gloss black tailgate spoiler.
Yellow brake calipers and recovery eyes add flair. It rides on standard 22-inch diamond-turned satin dark grey wheels (with 20- or 22-inch black options), and is offered in colours like Fuji White, Santorini Black, Woolstone Green, Borasco Grey, Carpathian Grey, and the Patagonia White matte wrap. Inside, premium Windsor leather (Ebony or Caraway) or Ultrafabrics options pair with new Ebony Forged textile accents for a tactile, durable feel.
Standard features include three- or four-zone climate control, air purification, and advanced connectivity with AI-driven voice assistance. For the 110, a new six-seat 2+2+2 layout with captain's chairs in the second row improves rear access, legroom, and luggage space between seats. Pricing starts at around £92,635 for the 90 Vertex, rising to £104,440 for the 130—reflecting its premium positioning. An optional Extended Exterior Pack brings similar styling to other trims like X-Dynamic. Powertrain changes accompany the update.
The supercharged 5.0-litre 'AJ' V8 is retired. A new P380 mild-hybrid 3.0-litre straight-six (375bhp) joins the range for better efficiency. The flagship Octa’s 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 drops from 626bhp to 533bhp (a 93bhp reduction) to meet stricter Euro 6e-bis emissions, though torque stays at 553lb ft and 0-60mph is now 4.2 seconds (was 3.8). A reworked exhaust promises a deeper, more authentic V8 soundtrack. Other updates include new colours like Namib Orange, gloss protective film, fresh accessories (roof light pod, tailgate gear carrier), and a Trophy Edition in Santorini Black. The Defender evolves as a versatile “tough luxury” machine, equally at home navigating city streets or remote trails.