The New Land Rover Defender @KenyanTraffic

The old models have been adored across the globe for decades, for their flaws as much as their off-road capabilities. Their designs were simple, rugged and instantly recognisable.

The new one would have to be modern but still evoke this heritage. It would have to be comfortable without losing its character, and be just as effective in the wilderness. It’s no wonder it endured 1.2 million kilometres in testing before it was released.

Here’s the 3.0-litre petrol 400 horsepower 110 S – the most powerful version of the 2020 Defender range. As well as engine specs, there are heaps of extras and accessories to choose from, conveniently grouped by Land Rover into several packs: Explorer, Adventure, Country and Urban.

Its designers were very aware of the importance of being respectful to its past, and there are plenty of features inside and out that echo the old Defender language.

Externally, they’ve retained the alpine windows in the roof. The front and rear of the car are still flat, and the spare wheel is mounted on a side-hinged tailgate.

The interior may be more plush, but there are also lots of design cues from the old models. The gear lever is mounted on the dash to allow for the option of a foldable middle seat in the front.

And the magnesium alloy beam that runs across the dash has been left exposed, maintaining that distinctive Defender simplicity.

It is also very clear that this car isn’t merely a tribute to its predecessors. Unlike the old models, which were permanently rugged and agricultural to drive, it has a split personality.

It’s as effective on the road as off it, thanks in part to a smooth eight-speed automatic gearbox. It’s quiet and spacious – tall drivers can drive it without scraping their knees on the underside of the steering wheel.

Loyal Defender fans will argue that such quirks were part of the charm of the old models – and they were – but for long road trips the new version is preferable.

Thankfully this comfort is not at the expense of its capability off-road. The new Defender’s independent air suspension system allows you to raise it up by 145 mm.

You can also control its terrain response on Land Rover’s new Pivi Pro infotainment system. It is easy to navigate, and in low range mode it just shrugs off all the rough terrain you will threw at it.

The base model in Kenya is priced from Sh9 million.