The return of the Defender a few years ago in the new form, after announcing the end of its production, was like the return of the Jedi. Everyone loves the Defender, its history and capabilities that do not need any testimonial.
Since its launch, it was already set to have multiple versions, which are: the 90, 110 and 130, and even several 6-cylinder engines, and eight cylinders., and the latest was the global drive experience of the Defender 130 in Dubai, and this is where we start our drive experience.
What is distinguished about this event is: first, this is the first time that a global drive in the desert of Dubai is conducted for the Defender, and it may even be for the first for Land Rover, and what does that mean? It means inviting all journalists in the world to the UAE to experience the Defender and live the true Arab experience while highlighting the region's pioneering role in the world. Secondly, my colleague in the Motor 283 Jowana took part in the test drive, and this was her first time driving in the desert, and I believe that she got lucky to have the most suitable car for off-roading as a beginner and I will talk about this topic later and also for me an opportunity to experience first-hand what 130 means on the Defender.
The Land Rover numbering system used to signify the length between the two wheels or what we call wheelbase, but today they are used only to indicate the size of the car, what does that mean?
Let's start with the number 90, it means the two-door Defender and the wheelbase is the shortest, while the 110 is a four-door, and of course, the wheelbase is longer than the 90, however, the 130 doesn’t mean a longer wheelbase, but rather the same as the 110 with a rear extension by 34 centimeters for more space in the back.
Some may think that the Defender 130 is a reaction to the market demand for more space in the 110, but this is not true, first because the 110 has enough space for a 7-seater, while the 130 was created for that extra friend, which you always leave behind since most cars do not fit 8 people. So, Land Rover with the 130 Defender intervened in the interest of this person and turned your adventure into being enough for everyone. Add to that the fact that the 130 was originally planned from the beginning and it was only a matter of time to be revealed and competes in the large SUV segment.
First and most important, of course, is enough space for three adults to sit comfortably. In terms of legroom and headroom, even the seating position in the third row is higher so you don’t feel left out and always be part of the team. Honestly, sitting in the third row gave me the feeling of being on a safari.
Even in the trunk, you find more space for storage, so that you can put all your belongings and the items of your tag along seven friends without the need to fold the seats.
One final note before getting into the driving experience, getting in and out of the third row was easy and practical.
Since it was Joanna's first experience in the desert, she had to start the driving experience on the sand and believe me, driving in the desert on board the Defender will deceive you!
Yes, it will deceive you and think that you are the king of the desert and driving on the sand, and the fact that the capabilities of the car, the suspension system, and the driving assistance systems prevent you from falling into the sand trap and thus you think that you have become a professional. Even the cameras act as your spotter and you have the option to see under the car as well so you can maintain the correct path, but this is not new to the legendary Land Rover.
As for the gravel road, it was my turn and I did not spare the car between speeds and even overcoming obstacles. It was easy for the Defender, who does not need my testimonial in off-road capabilities, however, as always with long-wheelbase cars, the question remains: Will it get stuck? The answer is, of course, no, and the details are in the video.
As for the engine, the same engines and engine options in the Defender 110 and 90 are found in the 130, and our car came with a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system generating power of approximately 400 horsepower.
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With more than 15 years of Auto Journalism, Nabil has lead and founded several print auto magazines as well as Digital Auto Magazines throughout the years. He was the editor in chief for the best automotive websites in the region and presented lots of YouTube videos on multuple channels and TV.
And most importantly he has an unprecedented passion for cars since he was born.
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