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2023 Land Rover Defender Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

2023 Land Rover Defender Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons: Base Trim vs S, X-Dynamic vs X and V8 vs V8 Carpathian Edition

What 2023 Land Rover Defender Trim Should You Buy? What is the Difference Between Trims?

Luxury SUVs are an optimal choice when it comes to purchasing a higher end vehicle. Although they come at a hefty price, luxury SUVs provide great value with their abundance of features and today's modern technology. The midsize option is especially attractive, as its starting cost point remains much lower than large SUV counterparts while also offering more space and off-roading capabilities – making for quite the practical purchase!

 

The Land Rover Defender is a great example of this class. It has tons of customization to help you configure it the way you want, it can handle plenty trails, and it still provides a luxury experience. It'll fulfill lots of different roles: this is by no means an offroad specialist. It has more practical appeal than offroader-first SUVs like the Wrangler but is also more rugged than pure road SUVs. On this page, you can learn more about the Defender's trims for the 2023 model year and how to decide which trim is the right one for you.

Before getting into the trims, it is important to note that the Land Rover Defender has a unique system that splits the trim levels into the 90 and 110 versions. The 90 seats five people in two rows and has two doors. The 110 has four doors and comes with the option to add a third row of seats. They usually have two different prices but otherwise, they share feature sets within trims.

Compare the Defender vs Defender S. What is the difference?

The first difference between the two lowest trims is the engine choice set. The base trim, the Defender, comes with the standard engine. That engine is a 296-horsepower turbo V4 that does well for day to day use, but isn't too exciting. However, the S trim opens up a possible upgrade engine. It is a V6 with 395 horsepower as well as mild hybrid system that makes it the most fuel-efficient of the Defender's engine selection.

The base trim of this vehicle equip drivers with a vast array of modern conveniences and advanced safety measures. From an 11.4-inch touchscreen for the infotainment suite to wireless charging pad, Android Auto & Apple Car Play capabilities, plus satellite radio - this ride packs all the bells and whistles! If you're looking for something more off-roading inclined - there's Terrain Response System; Hill Descent Control; Transfer Case; Wade Sensing...and so much more awaiting your command inside its cabin. And topping it off? You can experience all these features beginning at $53K MSRP!

Opting for the S trim on your next purchase is a no-brainer! This upgrade will grant you access to an impressive array of features, like alloy wheels, upgraded sound system, power front seats and luxurious leather upholstery. Plus there's also new options such as cloth or panoramic roof upgrades - so choosing this option gives plenty without breaking the bank. For those wanting even more out of their vehicle they can opt in to receive increased power and efficiency with its boosted engine at only a few thousand dollars extra.

Compare the S vs X-Dynamic. What is the difference?

The X-Dynamic trim utilizes the exceptional features of the S as standard and adds several more to make it an even better value. It starts off with a V6 mild hybrid engine, previously exclusive to higher trims, along with a panoramic roof for optimal visibility. Ventilated front seats featuring memory settings are also included - these can't be found on any lower trims! Upgrades from what was available in the S include power seating options too; all this comes at additional cost when compared directly to its counterpart but still offers fantastic value for money.

Compare the X-Dynamic vs X. What is the difference?

The X, the fourth trim, is a significant step up for the Land Rover Defender. First of all, it has a price increase of about $20,000. The X adds on a long list of new standard features. Some of these are offroading features. Terrain Response mode-switching is upgraded, it gets adaptive air suspension, it has new configurations for terrain response features, it adds on an electronic differential, and gains All-Terrain Progress Control. That alone expands the offroading capability. The X also has a camera in the rear mirror, a standard household power outlet for devices, upgraded Windsor leather upholstery, additional leather coverage, power front seats, and a powered, tilting wheel. These are definitely all luxury features and none of them provide a major functional boost, so it comes down to whether the upgrades feel worth the price.

Compare the X vs Defender V8. What is the difference?

 

The Defender is the ultimate luxury SUV. Its 518-horsepower supercharged V8 engine commands a price tag $20,000 more than its standard model - but what you get in return will blow your mind! With smooth yet powerful acceleration and top speeds that surpass many rivals, it's no surprise this vehicle has quickly become one of the most sought after models on roads today. Couple that with an ever changing soundtrack to match any terrain or situation; from city bustle to off-road expeditions - for those who can afford it, there truly isn't anything quite like driving a V8 powered Defender.

Compare the V8 vs V8 Carpathian Edition. What is the difference?

For those looking to make a bold, distinctive statement - the V8 Carpathian Edition is just what you need. This 2023 Land Rover Defender top trim option stands apart from its peers with an impressive list of exclusive elements and design features that set it off from any other Defenders on the market today. However, be prepared for slightly larger than average price tag as this edition can cost up to $8000 more than its base model counterpart.

 

Final Thoughts

When it comes to the Land Rover Defender, you're getting more than just an SUV. With prices starting in the five figures and reaching past six for their highest trim level, this luxury vehicle stands above other models when making comparisons. Deciding on which of its many trims is right for your lifestyle requires close consideration – but rest assured that no matter what option you choose with a Defender, quality craftsmanship will be guaranteed throughout.

When choosing a Defender, the 90 and 110 models offer markedly different levels of interior space. While the third row option in the larger model may seem tempting for those with large families, it is not recommended as it's cramped even for children and compromises essential cargo room. Despite its higher price point, most buyers will find that selecting the 110 offers better overall value than opting for its smaller counterpart.

Those looking for the most bang-for-their buck should consider the S trim as their go to choice. With a competitive feature set and access to one of Ford's great V6 engines, this is an ideal selection that won't break your budget. Though if you're truly wanting all available bells and whistles, then look up into X-Dynamic; just be aware it will come with a slightly increased cost attached.

The X has a lot to offer across its three trims, but the stand out for most drivers is the V8 engine offered in only two of those. Unless you have your heart set on that powerhouse under-the-hood though, there's no point paying extra for either: even at its peak trim - the Carpathian Edition - it doesn't bring anything else beyond cosmetics.

There is a lot to consider when balancing across these various trim groups, and that is even before getting into the options available for each one. The bottom line is that for the majority of potential buyers of the Land Rover, the S is going to be the best value. For those who have the budget for more or who really want to max out the offroading potential of the Defender, the X has everything they want, and they have the option to move up if they want the big V8 engine.

 
Previous Year Trim Configurations:

2021 Land Rover Defender Trim Levels