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New engine for 2012 Defender

A new 2.2 diesel engine will replace the 2.4 in use now when the 2012 Defender reaches South Africa. The smaller engine will deliver the same power, torque and economy as the outgoing unit.

It will come with a diesel particulate filter to ensure low emissions.

The 2.2 matches the 2.4 for power, torque and fuel consumption. A new acoustic cover replaces the previous splash cover, reducing engine noise and improving driving refinement.

The engine delivers lower emissions thanks to an improved combustion system and sophisticated engine management system.

DYNAMITE IN A SMALLER PACKAGE

Despite the smaller capacity and reduced emissions, it produces 91.5kW at 3500rpm and 360Nm at 2000rpm, same as the 2.4. Performance is better, too: top speed has been raised to 144km/h from the 2.4's 131km/h; CO2 emissions on the combined cycle are 266g/km for the Defender 90 and 295g/km for the 110 and 130.

COMING TO SA: Despite South Africa’s diesel quality, the Defender will come to South Africa.

The six-speed gearbox has been retained with its ratio spread, high top gear for cruising and low-speed crawl capability. The lower first gear offers low crawl speed making towing on-road and off-road easier. The low-down torque helps acceleration and the tall sixth gear ensures excellent cruising, refinement and fuel economy.

Ground gears in both the gearbox and transfer box contribute to the transmissions' refinement.

The Defender's front is based on a single, large moulding supported on a steel rail to eliminate squeaks and rattles. The instruments provide clear information to the driver and come with LED lighting.

MORE PASSENGER AND STORAGE SPACE

Storage shelves are easily located for the driver and passenger with an open-tray design that keeps contents to hand and a large, lidded design that provides 14 litres of storage as options.

The Defender also comes with a heating and ventilation system designed for extreme climates and has aluminium plate and fin heat exchangers. Its tall front seats are said to improve back support.

The 110 wagon and 130 Crew Cab's back seat accommodates three passengers and has a spring-assisted fold mechanism. The 90 wagon comes with forward-facing seats available as a third-row on the 110 wagon.

Seat trims include all-vinyl, cloth and half-leather - the last in the XS models.

The Defender's vehicle architecture has been retained for 2012. The chassis is available in three wheelbases.

The Defender will hit our shores in December 2011 and will be launched along with the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport facelifts. Prices will be announced closer to the launch but as a guide the current 2.4 starts at R406 995.


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