Fun For The Whole Family: Land Rover Defender 130

Ever since the all-new Land Rover Defender made its debut in the Philippines, the go-anywhere 4x4 has been available in two distinct body styles.

For bachelors and 4x4 enthusiasts who prefer something small and capable no matter the terrain, there’s the Defender 90. Then there’s the Defender 110 which comes with a longer wheelbase, two extra doors and loads more practicality without compromising its ability to cover any terrain.

But for the customer who wants to bring their entire family to the great outdoors including the proverbial kitchen sink, there’s but one Land Rover that can do that. Enter the Land Rover Defender 130, the longest, biggest, and perhaps the most spacious version of the brand’s popular SUV.

Measuring 5358mm long, 2008mm wide, 1970mm tall, along with a generous 3022mm wheelbase, the Defender 130 is huge in every sense. Compared to the Defender 110, the 130 is significantly longer by 340mm. While it may have received a growth spurt, the Defender 130 can still tackle the terrain thanks to its 290mm of ground clearance. It also has an approach angle of 37.5 degrees, a departure angle of 28.5 degrees, and a breakover angle of 27.8 degrees. River crossings are also a cinch for the Defender 130 as its wading depth is rated at a stellar 900mm.

Design-wise, the Defender 130 looks no different from its stablemates despite being marginally bigger. From the signature round headlights and front grille to the easily recognizable boxy exterior, the Defender 130 is all about the business while still looking good from every angle. Did we forget to mention it comes with massive 22-inch alloy wheels along with an equally huge spare tire carrier?

Open the doors and you’ll find a familiar-looking interior that’s similar to the Defender 90 and 110 Series body styles. From a fully digital dashboard to the generous use of leather upholstery throughout the cabin, the Defender 130 is both plush and cutting-edge. Speaking of cutting-edge, the Defender 130 is equipped with an 11.4-inch Pivi Pro touchscreen infotainment system.

Aside from the fact that it’s high-tech and high-definition, the Pivi Pro supports wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, meaning you no longer have to fumble with cables when connecting your phone to the system. There’s even a wireless charging pad on the center console so your device remains charged while on the go. Like most infotainment systems, the Pivi Pro also comes with Bluetooth connectivity. But unlike most systems which can only pair with one device, the one on the Defender 130 can simultaneously connect two devices at once.

Land Rovers are known for having plenty of amenities available and the Defender 130 is no different. From a panoramic glass sunroof to the Robustec seats as well as the semi-powered front seats, the Defender 130 is your home away from home on the road.

Since the 130 is the biggest Defender yet, Land Rover made sure it can seat a total of 8 individuals. You read right, this 4x4 SUV comes with three rows of seats and has a 2+3+3 seating layout. That means more fun for the entire family whether going on a long road trip or experiencing the great outdoors. You can even play with the seat configurations as the third-row can be split-folded 40:20:40 while the second-row comes with 60:40 split-folding seats.

Underneath the hood of the Defender 130 is no mere engine. It’s a 3.0L straight-six turbo-diesel powerhouse. It generates an impressive 300 PS along with a beefy 650 Nm of torque. Power is then sent to all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. Believe it or not, Land Rover claims the Defender 130 can sprint from 0 - 100 km/h in just 7 seconds - not bad for a full-size SUV that weighs over 2600 kg.

Did we mention the Defender 130 has a towing capacity of up to 3,000 kg? In case that’s not enough, the 4x4 also has a maximum roof load of 300 kg when static. If it’s on the move, the Defender 130 is capable of carrying cargo on its roof by up to 168 kg. As far as the maximum payload is concerned, it can easily lug up cargo between 750 kg to 800 kg. Fold both the second and third-row seats and the Defender 130 has a massive 2,291 liters of cargo capacity. Should all rows of seats be deployed, cargo space is only rated at 398 liters.

Despite growing in size and length, the Defender 130 still carries the brand’s proud tradition of being able to go anywhere no matter what Mother Nature throws at it. It comes with the brand’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (iAWD) technology that efficiently and effectively manages power distribution between the front & rear axles. Moreover, it optimizes on-road efficiency and all-terrain capabilities when necessary. Combined with the onboard Terrain Response system and twin-speed transfer box, the Land Rover Defender 130 will be able to climb any mountain, wade through any streams, and conquer any type of terrain.

Need to see obstacles around the vehicle but you don’t have a spotter? Worry not as the Defender is fitted with a 3D surround camera system that provides extra visibility all around. Should you also need to see what’s underneath the vehicle, the Defender 130 comes with the ClearSight Ground system which will allow drivers to check for any debris or obstacle that’s hidden from view.

The Defender has a fully-independent suspension which allows the SUV to be quite agile despite its dimensions and weight. Just like most Land Rovers, the Defender 130 is also fitted with the Electronic Air Suspension system which delivers better riding comfort in both on-road and off-road conditions. It even allows articulation for up to 430mm and additional lift of over 70mm which is useful especially when taking on uneven terrain. The air suspension can also be set to different heights to help passengers ingress or egress easily from the Defender.

What's it like on the open road and off the beaten path? Despite its huge size, the Defender 130 is quick thanks to the generous amount of torque available on hand. There's no delay from the moment you put your foot on the accelerator pedal and feel the acceleration when you're on the move. Take it off-road and the Defender 130 is immediately in its element. The Electronic Air Suspension makes sure the SUV remains stable and provides a comfy ride over any terrain while the intelligent Terrain Response System will ensure the Defender 130 remains mobile no matter the weather or the road conditions thrown at it.

For those looking to get the most out of their Land Rover without having to compromise on style, space, 4x4 capability, and power, look no further than the Defender 130. With seating for 8 and loaded to the brim with technologies and amenities, it’s the entire package and then some.

The Land Rover Defender 130 is yours at a cool PHP 12,340,000 which already includes the Custom Pack. Opt for the base version of the Defender 130 and the price goes down to PHP 11,990,000.