2025 Land Rover Defender 110 D250 S Review: One Of The Most Iconic Off-Road Vehicles

Published June 2026
2025 Land Rover Defender 110 D250 S Review: One Of The Most Iconic Off-Road Vehicles
2025 Land Rover Defender 110 D250 S Review: One Of The Most Iconic Off-Road Vehicles Close
Overall Rating
8.6/10
Powertrain & Performance
8.5/10
Towing Capacity
9.5/10
Fuel Efficiency
7.5/10
Interior Comfort & Technology
9/10
Exterior Design
9/10
Safety & Driver Assistance
8.5/10
Pricing & Value
8/10

A Prestigious SUV With Serious Capability

The modern Land Rover Defender has successfully reinvented one of the world's most iconic off-road vehicles without losing the character that made it famous. While previous generations focused almost exclusively on rugged capability, the latest L663 Defender combines genuine off-road credentials with premium comfort, advanced technology and everyday usability. For many buyers, the 2025 Land Rover Defender 110 D250 S represents the sweet spot in the range. Its smooth six-cylinder diesel engine delivers effortless torque for towing and touring, while the S specification includes the luxury appointments most owners actually want. Whether you're planning long-distance adventures, towing a caravan, or simply looking for a prestigious family SUV with serious capability, the Defender 110 D250 S deserves a close look.
2025 Land Rover Defender 110 D250 S Review: One Of The Most Iconic Off-Road Vehicles
2025 Land Rover Defender 110 D250 S Review: One Of The Most Iconic Off-Road Vehicles Close

Driving Experience

Powertrain & Performance

8.5/10

At the heart of the Defender 110 D250 S is Land Rover's 3.0-litre Ingenium inline six-cylinder turbo-diesel, supported by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. Producing 183kW and 570Nm, it's paired with the outstanding ZF eight-speed automatic transmission and Land Rover's permanent all-wheel-drive system complete with a two-speed transfer case.

Unlike many luxury SUVs that chase outright acceleration figures, the Defender is engineered around effortless torque. Peak pulling power arrives from just 1,250rpm, making the vehicle feel relaxed and confident whether climbing steep inclines, overtaking on the highway or towing heavy loads.

The mild-hybrid system smooths engine start-stop operation and provides subtle assistance during acceleration, while the eight-speed transmission shifts almost imperceptibly. On-road refinement is impressive considering the Defender's size, and electronic air suspension helps isolate occupants from rough surfaces without compromising its legendary off-road ability.

Although its claimed 0-100km/h time of 8.3 seconds won't trouble performance SUVs, it feels considerably quicker in everyday driving thanks to the diesel engine's broad torque delivery.

2025 Land Rover Defender 110 D250 S Review: One Of The Most Iconic Off-Road Vehicles
2025 Land Rover Defender 110 D250 S Review: One Of The Most Iconic Off-Road Vehicles Close

Towing Ability

Towing Capability

9.5/10

Few luxury SUVs combine genuine off-road ability with serious towing performance as convincingly as the Defender.

The 3,500kg braked towing capacity matches Australia's benchmark tow vehicles, while the generous 570Nm of torque ensures the Defender never feels strained under load.

Beyond the numbers, Land Rover has engineered the Defender specifically for heavy towing. Features such as Terrain Response 2, a low-range transfer case, Advanced Tow Assist, trailer stability control and available electronic air suspension make manoeuvring caravans and trailers remarkably easy.

Its 900mm wading depth, exceptional approach and departure angles and permanent four-wheel drive also allow owners to confidently launch boats, access remote campsites or tow across challenging terrain that would defeat many rivals.

Fuel Economy

Fuel Efficiency

7.5/10

Considering its size, permanent four-wheel-drive system and impressive towing capability, the Defender performs well at the fuel pump.

Land Rover claims a combined consumption figure of 7.9L/100km, with the 90-litre fuel tank providing an excellent touring range between fills.

Real-world fuel use typically sits closer to 9–10L/100km in mixed driving, increasing further when carrying heavy loads or towing. The diesel engine also requires AdBlue, now common across many modern European diesels.

Servicing intervals of 26,000km or 12 months reduce workshop visits compared with many competitors, although premium servicing costs remain part of the ownership experience.

Luxury Interior

Interior Comfort & Technology

9/10

The Defender's cabin is where the biggest transformation from previous generations becomes obvious.

The utilitarian interior of old has been replaced with a premium, thoughtfully designed space that feels every bit as luxurious as many German rivals while still maintaining the Defender's rugged identity.

The 11.4-inch curved Pivi Pro touchscreen is quick, intuitive and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while a 12.3-inch digital driver display presents clear navigation and vehicle information.

The S model also includes:

  • 14-way electrically adjustable front seats
  • Grained leather upholstery
  • Meridian premium sound system
  • Dual-zone climate control
  • Wireless smartphone charging
  • Premium cabin materials throughout

Passenger space is generous in both rows, while the 786-litre boot comfortably handles luggage for extended family holidays. Folding the rear seats expands cargo capacity to an impressive 1,946 litres, and buyers can also option the versatile 5+2 seating configuration.

The elevated driving position, superb outward visibility and commanding road presence make long-distance journeys genuinely relaxing.

Luxury That Fits Daily Life

Exterior Design

9/10

Few vehicles command attention quite like the modern Defender.

Rather than attempting to recreate the original, Land Rover has evolved the classic shape into something unmistakably contemporary while retaining its unmistakable silhouette.

The upright stance, short overhangs, exposed alpine windows and side-hinged rear tailgate all reference earlier Defenders, while flush lighting, clean body surfacing and minimalist detailing give it an unmistakably premium appearance.

The Defender 110 measures just over 5 metres long, yet its proportions remain balanced and purposeful. Standard 19-inch alloy wheels complement the rugged styling, while available air suspension allows the ride height to adjust depending on driving conditions.

Years after its release, the Defender still looks fresh and distinctive.

Road Presence

Safety & Driver Assistance

8.5/10

The Defender delivers an extensive suite of active safety technologies, helping it achieve a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.

Standard equipment includes:

  • Autonomous Emergency Braking
  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Blind Spot Assist
  • Lane Keep Assist
  • Driver Condition Monitor
  • Front and Rear Parking Sensors
  • 3D Surround Camera
  • ClearSight Digital Rear View Mirror
  • Traffic Sign Recognition

Combined with its exceptionally rigid body structure and advanced driver assistance systems, the Defender feels reassuring whether navigating city traffic or travelling remote highways.

Ownership Value

Pricing & Value

8/10

As a used purchase, the Defender 110 D250 S offers significantly better value than buying new.

Most 2025 examples currently sit between the high-$80,000s and low-$100,000s, depending on mileage, factory options and condition.

When inspecting a used Defender, buyers should pay particular attention to:

  • Complete Land Rover service history
  • Current Pivi Pro software updates
  • Air suspension operation through every ride-height setting
  • Electronic systems functioning correctly
  • Evidence of quality maintenance rather than deferred servicing

Although ownership costs remain higher than Japanese rivals, depreciation has already absorbed much of the initial purchase premium, making lightly used examples particularly attractive.

Our Verdict

Overall Rating 8.6/10

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the 2025 Land Rover Defender 110 D250 S?

The 2025 Land Rover Defender 110 D250 S strikes one of the best balances in the Defender range. It delivers exceptional touring comfort, class-leading towing ability and genuine off-road performance while maintaining the premium cabin expected from a modern luxury SUV.

It won't be the cheapest vehicle to own, and buyers should ensure software updates, servicing and suspension systems have all been properly maintained. However, for those wanting a luxury 4WD capable of handling school drop-offs during the week and crossing the Simpson Desert on holidays, few vehicles match its breadth of ability.

If you're comparing premium adventure SUVs, the Defender deserves to sit alongside the BMW X5 xDrive40d, Mercedes-Benz GLE 300d, Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series, and Lexus GX. For many buyers, however, its blend of heritage, capability and modern luxury makes it the standout choice.

Explore Used Land Rover Defenders at MCT Motorsport

At MCT Motorsport, every Land Rover Defender is carefully inspected and presented to the highest standard. We verify service history, confirm software is up to date, inspect air suspension functionality and ensure every example meets our quality expectations.

If you're looking for a premium Defender with proven provenance, browse our current stock or speak with our team today.

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