new land rover defender makes its long-awaited debut at IAA 2019

as the choice of car for adventurers for more than 40 years, the new 2020 land rover defender finally debuts at IAA 2019 in frankurt, germany. the all-conquering, iconic 4×4 has been reimagined for the 21st century with an all-new design and equally advanced technologies. however, although detailed with design differences, the model retains its instantly recognizable silhouette.

all images courtesy of jaguar land rover

‘the new defender is respectful of its past but is not harnessed by it,‘ says gerry mcgovern, chief design officer, land rover. ‘this is a new defender for a new age. its unique personality is accentuated by its distinctive silhouette and optimum proportions, which make it both highly desirable and seriously capable – a visually compelling 4×4 that wears its design and engineering integrity with uncompromised commitment.‘

as expected, the proportions of the 2020 land rover defender greatly resemble that of its iconic predecessor: an upright stance and functional, modular architecture. the exterior design also retains a resemblance with signature elements like the short front and rear overhangs, squared-off wheel arches, and side-hinged rear tailgate. this results again in a utilitarian, rugged aesthetic but one that offers an impression of sophistication and is approachable. these details include a characterful front-end emphasized by the geometric forms of its headlamps, alpine light windows set into the roof, and continuous waist and collar lines.

the balance of functionality and personality continues on the interior as well. a practical layout with optional 5+2 seating and an abundance of storage space is paired with a reductive design where fixtures and fittings remain honest and visible. a powder-coated magnesium cross car beam is left exposed to highlight body strength while a magnesium frame is enhanced in the cockpit to cluster all the main controls. this feature then supports the use of an optional front row center jump seat, if needed. a 10-inch touchscreen hosts the new ‘PIVI pro’ infotainment system that offers an intuitive interface with over-the-air software updates.

in line with its overall tough design, the defender is built from a new D7x architecture that has been engineered to set an even higher standard for durability. furthermore its new configurable terrain response, twin-speed transfer box, locking center differential, active rear and locking differential allow drivers to optimize its capabilities for various terrains. the model offers a maximum payload of up to 1,984-lbs (900 kg), towing capacity of 8,201-lbs (3,720 kg) and a wading depth of up to 35.4-inch (900 mm) to aid every adventure.

the 2020 land rover defender unveiled four distinct accessory packs to cater for specific ventures at IAA 2019. the explorer pack is equipped with a lightweight 57-lbs (25.85 kg) roof rack, exterior side-mounted gear carrier, wheel arch protection and a spare wheel cover. adventure features a portable rinse system with a 1.7 gallon (6.5-liter) pressurized water reservoir, trunk-mounted integrated air compressor and exterior side-mounted gear carrier. the country pack is fitted with rugged wheel arch protection, a bright rear scuff plate, portable rinse system and a full-height loadspace partition. lastly, urban adds a bright rear scuff plate, spare wheel cover and front undersheild.