The Land Rover Defender 90/110 has long been celebrated for its rugged durability and off-road prowess. However, for enthusiasts seeking an extraordinary performance boost, the Project Kahn 6.2L Engine Conversion represents the pinnacle of automotive enhancement. This bespoke upgrade transforms the iconic Defender into a high-performance powerhouse, offering significant improvements in horsepower, torque, and overall driving dynamics.

1. Enhanced Horsepower and Torque

The standout feature of the Project Kahn 6.2L Engine Conversion for Defender 90/110 is its substantial increase in horsepower and torque. The conversion involves installing a high-performance 6.2L V8 engine, which delivers a remarkable boost in power compared to the stock engine. This new engine generates significantly higher horsepower, translating into an exhilarating acceleration experience and a top-end speed that matches the Defender’s rugged appearance. The increased torque provides a substantial boost to low-end performance, making off-road driving and towing tasks easier and more efficient.

2. Superior Driving Dynamics

Beyond raw power, the 6.2L engine conversion enhances the overall driving dynamics of the Defender. The additional horsepower and torque contribute to a more responsive throttle and improved acceleration, whether navigating city streets or tackling challenging off-road terrain. The refined engine performance reduces the lag typically experienced in stock engines, offering a smoother and more engaging driving experience. The upgraded engine is paired with a high-quality gearbox and other supporting components, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance.

3. Improved Handling and Stability

The Project Kahn 6.2L Engine Conversion doesn’t just boost power—it also enhances the Defender’s handling and stability. The increased engine output is matched by upgraded suspension and chassis components, designed to handle the additional power and maintain the vehicle’s balance. This ensures that the Defender remains stable and composed, even under the most demanding driving conditions. Whether you’re navigating rough trails or cruising on highways, the improved handling characteristics contribute to a safer and more enjoyable driving experience.

4. Enhanced Vehicle Experience

The transformation brought about by the 6.2L engine conversion goes beyond performance metrics. The upgrade offers a richer and more engaging driving experience, with a robust engine note that adds to the Defender’s commanding presence. The conversion process also includes a meticulous fitting of the engine, ensuring that every aspect of the upgrade aligns with the vehicle’s design and performance requirements. The result is a Defender that not only performs exceptionally but also delivers a heightened sense of driving pleasure.

5. Customization and Exclusivity

The Project Kahn 6.2L Engine Conversion is available exclusively through the Bespoke Fitting Centre, adding a layer of exclusivity to this high-performance upgrade. The bespoke nature of the service means that each conversion is tailored to the specific requirements of the vehicle and its owner, ensuring a unique and personalized enhancement. The part exchange option for the original engine, gearbox, and other components further underscores the commitment to delivering a seamless and high-quality upgrade.

Conclusion

The Project Kahn 6.2L Engine Conversion for Land Rover Defender 90/110 represents a significant leap forward, combining unparalleled performance improvements with a refined driving experience. With enhanced horsepower, torque, and handling, this bespoke upgrade transforms the Defender into a high-performance vehicle that excels both on and off the road. For those seeking to elevate their Defender to new heights, the 6.2L engine conversion offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience power, precision, and exclusivity in one exceptional package.

When a vehicle with a locker lands in my driveway, my first instinct is to take it deep into the woods. After all, anything with 4×4 should be tested off-road, right? However, a realistic look at SUV buyers’ habits reveals a different story. Most SUV shoppers, especially in the luxury segment, rarely use their vehicle’s rock-crawling capabilities. Instead, day-to-day practicality often takes precedence over off-road prowess.

With this in mind, I put the Land Rover Defender 110 S to the test in a suburban setting. I used it for grocery shopping, chauffeuring friends, navigating traffic jams, and handling potholes in the industrial district. After a week with the Defender, I began to understand the appeal of this posh SUV, though it does have its downsides.

Quick Specs: 2024 Land Rover Defender 110 S

• Engine: Turbocharged 3.0-Liter I-6 Hybrid
• Output: 395 Horsepower / 405 Pound-Feet
• Efficiency: 17 City / 20 Highway / 18 Combined
• Base Price: $67,900 + $1,475 Destination
• On-Sale Date: Now

The Defender 110 S is exceptional off-road. My test vehicle, equipped with the Advanced Off-Road Capability Pack ($750), Off-Road Pack ($1,550), and Air Suspension Pack ($1,500), boasts 11.5 inches of ground clearance, a 38.0-degree approach angle, and a wading depth of 35.5 inches. These specs rival those of a four-door Jeep Wrangler or an Ineos Grenadier. Despite its unibody construction, the Defender can accommodate a 10,000-pound winch in its front bumper. Off-road, this SUV is virtually unmatched, which is expected given its as-tested price of $81,103.

However, my week was spent playing housewife, running errands, and entertaining guests. For these tasks, rock-crawling capabilities were irrelevant. What mattered was how the Defender handled everyday drives to places like WinCo.

On the road, the Defender’s unibody construction contributes to a car-like feel. The steering is sharp despite the all-terrain tires, and there’s minimal vibration over bumps. The interior remains quiet even on rough highways. However, the air suspension is a bit firm in road mode. While it avoids the reverberation typical of body-on-frame vehicles, the ride can be jarring over rough roads.

The Defender’s cabin is luxurious and comfortable. The County package features durable, hard-wearing materials on high-wear areas and enough soft touchpoints to maintain a premium feel. It doesn’t feel like it’s pretending to be durable; it genuinely is, without feeling cheap or plasticky.

The seats are comfortable with easy-to-clean leather and powered adjustment switches. The electric tilt-telescope steering wheel helps drivers find an ergonomic, upright position, and visibility is excellent thanks to the forward-set windshield, squared-off mirrors, and low beltline. Rear passengers found the second-row bench seat roomy and comfortable, even when seated three-abreast.

Cargo space is also impressive. The Defender 110’s 34.0 cubic feet of cargo space easily accommodated boxes of books for a signing event, thanks to the squared-off, easily loadable area and wide cargo door. The trunk-positioned air suspension height adjustment button was particularly useful for loading heavy boxes.

However, the side-hinged trunk door posed challenges. It made airport pickups cumbersome, as there wasn’t enough space for my friends to walk around the back with other cars behind us. This design flaw persisted in daily use since the rear glass doesn’t open.

The 11.4-inch center screen is user-friendly, with straightforward navigation through features and drive modes. It includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the physical buttons are a welcome addition, they are frustrating in practice. Adjusting seat heaters or fan speeds often required multiple interactions, diverting attention from the road. The 400-watt 10-speaker Meridian sound system was also underwhelming for an $80,000 vehicle.

Running costs are high, even with the mild-hybrid 3.0-liter turbocharged/electrically-supercharged straight-six engine. Despite careful driving, I averaged only 15 mpg, well below the rated 17 city and 20 highway. The hybrid powertrain is responsive and quick, with the eight-speed automatic delivering smooth torque, but fuel efficiency is a significant drawback.

The Defender County pack adds special graphics, steelie-style 20-inch alloys, two-tone paint, a rear-mounted spare, and rugged interior trim, enhancing its trail-ready appearance and overall handsomeness.

If I had taken the Defender off-road, it would have excelled. However, for everyday suburban tasks, I found it lacked practicality. The Land Rover Defender 110 S shines off the beaten path but falls short in the urban jungle.

Photo Credits: Victoria Scott 

The luxury car, SUV, and truck modification experts from Brand, Germany, have done it again. Mansory now offers a bespoke program for the modern incarnation of the Land Rover Defender, specifically the L663 Defender 110. Known for their customization beyond limits, Mansory’s tuning elements for the Defender 110 might be seen as controversial, depending on your point of view. This modification is a complete vehicle conversion, showcasing Mansory’s signature style and performance enhancements.

The original Land Rover Defender, introduced in 1983 as the Defender 110, was soon followed by the Defender 90 and the extra-long Defender 127 in 1985. Its rugged design and utilitarian interior made it a favorite among off-road enthusiasts who valued durability over luxury. The Defender’s reputation for surviving extreme conditions meant it wasn’t initially a target for high-end aftermarket modifications.

However, with the launch of the modern L663 Defender in 2020, Jaguar Land Rover transformed the SUV into a contemporary off-road luxury vehicle. The new Defender’s versatility, capable of tackling both rugged terrains and urban environments with ease, attracted attention from aftermarket companies eager to offer custom modifications and personalized enhancements.

After its debut at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Land Rover Defender 110 has finally caught the eye of Mansory. Their “complete vehicle conversion” includes numerous aerodynamic components made from carbon fiber, creating a sleek all-black appearance with strategic orange accents on the lower front spoiler, radiator grille, side skirts, and rear spoiler. Special LED headlights add to the vehicle’s modern look.

Mansory has also equipped the Defender 110 with new 23-inch CS.10 wheels, promising even more enhancements to come. Inside, the vehicle features a blend of black and orange accents, with a black dashboard and door cards complemented by perforated white leather seat upholstery. Mansory’s branding is prominently displayed throughout the interior, ensuring that the bespoke nature of the vehicle is unmistakable.

Beyond aesthetics, Mansory’s modifications significantly boost the Defender 110’s performance. The tuning experts have revealed that their version of the Defender 110 produces an impressive 650 horsepower, enabling the SUV to sprint from 0 to 100 kph (62 mph) in just 4.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 250 kph (155 mph).

Mansory’s approach to modifying the Defender 110 might be seen as over-the-top by some, but it undeniably transforms the SUV into a standout vehicle. Whether you view it as a masterpiece of luxury customization or an excessive display of opulence, there’s no denying the craftsmanship and performance enhancements Mansory brings to the table.

In conclusion, Mansory’s treatment of the Land Rover Defender 110 pushes the boundaries of luxury SUV customization. With a blend of bold design choices and significant performance upgrades, this bespoke program showcases Mansory’s commitment to creating unique and powerful vehicles that stand out in any setting. Whether it’s admired for its daring aesthetics or criticized for its extravagance, the Mansory Defender 110 is a testament to the evolving nature of luxury automotive customization.

Photo: Mansory / Instagram

Enhance your Land Rover New Defender 110 with the robust and versatile Slimline II Roof Rack Kit. This full-size cargo roof rack, measuring 2166mm (85.3″) in length, is designed for easy installation using OEM mounting points, providing you with ample storage and convenience for your adventures.

Kit Components:

• Slimline II Tray: A durable and spacious tray for your cargo needs.
• Wind Deflector: Reduces wind noise and improves aerodynamics.
• 2 Foot Rails: Securely mount the Slimline II Tray to your Defender 110. Note that the OEM tracks need to be removed for fitting these foot rails.

Features:

• Easy Fitment: Utilizes OEM mounting points for a hassle-free installation process.
• Vehicle-Specific Foot Rails: Includes openings for storing compatible gear, such as Front Runner tables, under the rack.
• Under Rack Storage: The foot rails feature two openings to accommodate Front Runner under-rack mount tables (one smaller prep table and one larger camp-size table).
• Lifetime Warranty: All Front Runner Racks are backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty, ensuring long-term reliability and performance.

Important Notes:

• The Land Rover OEM ladder and OEM storage box are not compatible with this rack kit.
• For detailed installation instructions, refer to the fitment instructions available in the INSTALL tab.

Equip your Land Rover New Defender 110 with the Slimline II Roof Rack Kit and enjoy enhanced functionality, storage, and style on all your journeys.

Elevate your driving experience with the Project Kahn Quad Exhaust System, specially designed for the 2020 and newer Land Rover Defender 110 2.0 Petrol models. This exhaust system not only enhances the vehicle’s performance but also adds a distinctive aesthetic appeal, making it a perfect upgrade for discerning Defender owners.

Premium Construction and Design:

The exhaust system is crafted from high-quality stainless steel, ensuring durability and longevity. Finished in a sleek satin black, it offers a modern and aggressive look that complements the Defender’s rugged design. The inclusion of a perforated heat shield not only adds to the visual appeal but also provides practical protection against heat buildup, ensuring optimal performance and safety.

Performance Enhancement:

While this exhaust system is designed to fit all 3.0 petrol models, it specifically caters to the 2.0 petrol engine as well, enhancing the vehicle’s auditory and performance characteristics. The quad exhaust tips produce a deeper, more resonant exhaust note that signifies enhanced performance, giving your Defender a more assertive and powerful presence on the road.

Practicality and Functionality:

One of the standout features of the Project Kahn Quad Exhaust System is its thoughtful design that maintains the vehicle’s off-road capabilities. The exhaust system uses a down pipe positioned at the same height as the factory system, ensuring that the Defender’s off-road ride height and clearance remain unaffected. This means you can enjoy the benefits of a high-performance exhaust without compromising the vehicle’s ability to tackle rough terrains and challenging landscapes.

Key Features:

• Material: Constructed from premium stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance.
• Finish: Satin black coating for a stylish and sophisticated appearance.
• Heat Shield: Perforated heat shield for added protection and aesthetic appeal.
• Compatibility: Designed to fit all 3.0 petrol models, with specific enhancements for the 2.0 petrol engine.
• Sound: Produces a deeper, more robust exhaust note for an improved auditory experience.
• Design: Maintains factory down pipe height, ensuring no impact on off-road ride height and clearance.

Benefits:

• Enhanced Sound: Enjoy a deeper, sportier exhaust note that complements the Defender’s performance capabilities.
• Aesthetic Upgrade: The satin black finish and quad exhaust tips provide a visually striking enhancement to the vehicle’s rear profile.
• Durability: The use of high-quality stainless steel ensures that the exhaust system will withstand the rigors of daily driving and off-road adventures.
• Maintained Capability: With the factory down pipe height maintained, there is no compromise on the Defender’s renowned off-road performance.

Upgrade your Land Rover Defender 110 2.0 Petrol with the Project Kahn Quad Exhaust System and experience the perfect blend of style, sound, and performance. Whether navigating city streets or exploring off-road trails, this exhaust system ensures your Defender stands out in both appearance and capability.