Your Preferred Off-Roader Has Become More Intelligent and Fashionable | Carscoops

      The 2026 Defender is not a complete redesign, but it does feature notable updates in both styling and technology.

      The exterior enhancements include updated lighting, new surface designs, and a broader selection of color options.

      Inside, a new 13.1-inch infotainment screen has taken the place of the former 11.4-inch display.

      While most model year updates are often modest, Land Rover is breaking the mold with the 2026 Defender. This rugged SUV now comes with a larger infotainment touchscreen, subtle aesthetic adjustments, new technologies, and a wider variety of accessories. It's important to mention that just last year, the Defender's range was streamlined with more upscale features, even though it hasn't received a full facelift.

      **Exterior Updates for a More Refined Appearance**

      Focusing on the exterior, all Defender variants — including the 90, 110, and 130 body styles — now come with slightly revamped LED headlight designs, flush taillights with a dark-tinted finish, and standard fog lights. The bumpers have new surfacing, and the gloss black grille-bar is a standard feature now. Additionally, the hood inserts and side vents have a new textured pattern, replacing the previous model's checker-plate plastic.

      The color options now feature Woolstone Green and Borasco Grey, as well as a new choice of 22-inch, seven-spoke alloy wheels in Dark Grey. For the performance-oriented Defender OCTA, equipped with a twin-turbo V8, Land Rover introduces the striking Sargasso Blue, along with tactile Textured Graphite details and Chopped Carbon Fibre accents both inside and out. Furthermore, a Patagonia White Matte Wrap exterior will be available for all V8-equipped Defenders beginning in late 2025.

      Overall, the styling modifications are subtle enough that one would need a side-by-side comparison to notice the differences from the previous model, yet they do refine the details of the SUV, especially considering it's not a complete overhaul.

      **A Larger Display and Improved Usability**

      Inside the vehicle, the prominent change is the introduction of a new 13.1-inch touchscreen, an upgrade from the previous 11.4-inch version. The interior remains largely the same, although the gear shifter has been slightly adjusted for better ergonomics. There is also a new sliding section and a deeper storage area in the center console, along with removable side pockets for those who do not require a center jump seat. While these changes may seem minor, they collectively contribute to a more practical and user-friendly cabin.

      In terms of technology, the 2026 Defender can be outfitted with optional Adaptive Off-Road Cruise Control, an enhanced version of the All Terrain Progress Control. Additionally, a new Driver Attention Monitor is included, which provides both audio and visual alerts, although these can be disabled for those who prefer not to use them.

      Last but not least, the company has broadened the range of available accessories. In addition to the Explorer, Adventure, and Urban Packs, individual accessories like roof racks, cross bars, and underbody protection are now offered in a dark finish. Other options include deployable or fixed side steps, updated matte black hood decals, a winch with a chopped carbon fiber cover for the OCTA, and an integrated air compressor for the Defender 130.

      The 2026 Land Rover Defender is currently available for order in the UK, with starting prices at £57,135 ($77,200). More information regarding availability in other markets, including North America, is expected to be announced soon.