Land Rover Defender 90 V8
The 2022 Land Rover Defender V8 was one of the most audacious factory-built vehicles of the modern era. By installing the 5.0-liter supercharged V8 from the Range Rover Sport SVR into the new-generation Defender 90, Land Rover created a vehicle that could accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 5.0 seconds while still being capable of serious off-road work.
The AJ-V8 5.0-liter supercharged engine produced 525 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 625 Nm of torque at 2,500-5,500 rpm. The engine breathed through a twin-vortex Eaton supercharger with liquid-to-air intercooling, delivering instantaneous throttle response and a deep, characterful exhaust note. Power was transmitted through a ZF 8HP eight-speed automatic gearbox to all four wheels via Land Rover's full-time AWD system with active center differential.
The V8 Defender received extensive chassis modifications to handle the additional power. Unique spring and damper rates, larger anti-roll bars, revised steering calibration, and a wider track all contributed to more composed handling. Brembo brakes with larger discs provided stopping power appropriate for the vehicle's performance. 22-inch alloy wheels with high-performance tires gave the V8 distinctive visual presence.
Land Rover's engineers also fitted the Terrain Response 2 system, maintaining the Defender's off-road capability. Despite its performance focus, the V8 could still wade through 900mm of water, climb extreme gradients, and navigate challenging off-road terrain. The electronic air suspension provided adjustable ride height for both on-road performance and off-road articulation.
The interior featured unique V8 badging, Windsor leather upholstery, an Ebony headlining, and distinctive trim elements. The 11.4-inch Pivi Pro infotainment system and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster provided modern connectivity and information display.
The Defender V8 was produced in limited numbers and was the most expensive and powerful Defender ever offered. It appealed to buyers who wanted the Defender's iconic design and capability with performance that could embarrass many dedicated sports cars. The combination of supercharged V8 power with genuine off-road capability made it one of the most versatile high-performance vehicles on the market.
Check supercharger for whine or bearing noise. Verify service history through authorized Land Rover dealers. Air suspension system should function across all ride heights. Terrain Response 2 system must operate correctly. Check for any off-road damage to underbody components. Software updates should be current. Brake pad and rotor condition given the vehicle's weight.
Produced at Land Rover's Nitra, Slovakia factory from 2022. The Defender V8 was a limited-production model. Exact production numbers have not been publicly disclosed. Note: the slug indicates 2018 but the V8 variant launched in 2022.