By Kimatni Rawlins
Land Rovers, including the Defender brand (OCTA, 90, 110, and 130), stand out as some of the most captivating SUVs traversing lands from the United States to Great Britain. Their physiques are not just visually appealing but also evoke emotional responses. And with its legendary off-road capabilities, the Defender 110 X-Dynamic SE is not just a utility vehicle; it’s a statement vehicle.
My 2026 110 X-Dynamic SE, featuring Land Rover’s powerful 5-liter supercharged V8, entered our driveway in an exquisite Gondwana Stone finish. In contrast to the black roof and vehicle surround treatment, it was menacing yet equally inviting. The larger engine produces 493-horsepower and pairs to an 8-speed automatic transmission, and of course, all-wheel drive and Goodyear Wrangler all-terrain tires for adventurous outings. Terrain Response 2 with selectable driving and off-road modes, 20” wheels, an air suspension, Adaptive Dynamics, and Hill Decent Control help the Defender 110 accomplish various driving tasks effectively, such as cornering, off-roading, and maneuvering. You can also save yourself roughly $24,000 and select the smaller yet commendable MHEV 3-liter 6-cylinder that produces 395-horsepower. But for the time being, the V8 moved the Defender authoritatively!
The specific X-Dynamic SE model turns your Defender 110 into an NBA MVP on defense thanks to its array of technology upgrades. Stylistically, the package enhances the Gondwana Stone hue with a Gloss Black grille bar, Graphite Atlas Matte lettering, a Satin Carpathian Grey front and rear skid pan, body-colored hood, black exposed rear recovery eyes, darkened tail lights, black mirror caps and side skirts, and a black roof that seamlessly blends with the two-tone theme. Moreover, the paint job is inspired by the extraordinary rock formations of the historic supercontinent. The name “Gondwana” is derived from a tribal group from India, better known as “Forest of the Gonds” in Sanskrit.
During my week of testing the Defender 110 I experienced its versatility firsthand, from mountain biking on my Specialized Stumpjumper Comp to spring yard supply pickups. That’s right, this British SUV was always up for a challenge. Its aggressive physical capabilities are perfectly balanced with symmetrical Defender aesthetics. But let’s be honest, as magnificent as Rovers are in the wild, they are prone to quality control issues. In fact, I think Land Rovers are among the scarier SUVs to buy because of their well-known, well-documented unreliability. For example, a college buddy of mine brought a Defender 130 a few years ago, and has been to the dealership over 15 times for a few major issues and then for some of the most frivolous concerns.
From an aftermarket perspective, seek out a Defender 2.4 TDCI XS 110 Double Cab Pickup from Chelsea Wide Track to garner attention from one of the coolest-looking, toughest, and most capable 4x4s on the streets. Advancements include wide front and rear wings, extended wheel arches in Matte Black, Shadow Chrome headlamps, bonnet and side vents with mesh stainless steel, an X-Lander front grille, aggressive side steps, and a Chelsea Truck Company rear wheel cover. Lastly, a set of Volcanic Black Mondial rims, Liquid Red brake calipers, and a twin crosshair exhaust system lend a rugged look to the special ops road warrior.
Hop inside the Defender 110 X-Dynamic SE for typical Land Rover craftsmanship that inspires with Ebony Windsor leather, an opening panoramic sunroof, robotic dash layout, premium cabin lighting, and a 13.1” PIVI Pro Infotainment system. The screen floats on the center stack and has storage space behind the panel for various items. The family took turns DJing their favorite genres of music as the Meridian sound system had everyone jamming. You will find a multitude of controls on the power-adjustable heated leather steering wheel, including voice controls and Adaptive Cruise Control w/ Stop & Go. A few more Defender essentials for an enjoyable road trip include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats, and rear privacy glass.
When it was time for some MTB action, the vehicle had no issues navigating the gravel trail roads to the bike park. After opening the heavy tailgate with the optional full-size and covered spare, I laid down the seats and stored the bike inside with ease. The rugged interior, layered with a study floorboard cover, was perfect for the muddy wheels upon return. To navigate my forest-like surroundings, Land Rover’s antidote is the 3D Surround Camera.
Expect an MSRP of $99,100 and just 16 combined mpg for the go-anywhere, attention-grabbing Land Rover Defender 110 X-Dynamic SE. My vehicle totaled $110,910, including the $1,850 destination and delivery fee, which has increased by about $400 in the last three years. With all Land Rovers, you have to pay to play!
