Permanent 4-wheel drive ensures power is sent to all four wheels continuously, on or off road. Because there´s no need to switch between two-wheel and four-wheel drive when conditions change, Defender remains sure-footed and unstoppable.

Defender is capable of tackling a gradient of 45 degrees, an approach angle of up to 49 degrees, a departure angle of 47 degrees and a ramp break-over of up to 147 degrees.

Whether Defender is towing, climbing or driving off-road, control of engine Torque is provided through a robust dual-range transfer box. This gives drivers more control and the flexibility of 12 forward and two reverse gears.

When confronting difficult off-road driving conditions, the centre differential can be locked, helping prevent differential action and forcing power to be split equally between each axle. This gives superior Traction over loose ground, mud, ice or snow.

For instant throttle response under normal road conditions, the engine uses a Fast Throttle Control (FTC) setting: most of the engine´s power is accessible in the first 30% of pedal travel. But when low range is selected, the throttle reverts to a long travel setting, allowing the gentle application of off-road power.

Optional ETC applies a braking force to any wheel that´s accelerating more quickly than the others. Power is therefore redistributed to the wheels with most Traction, improving the grip.

If any significant difference between wheel speeds is detected during heavy braking, the 4-channel Anti-lock Braking System is designed to automatically reduce the braking force applied to that wheel, helping the driver to retain control. ABS is optional on all models.

Excellent axle articulation, thanks to coil sprung suspension, also plays its part in Defender´s legendary ability (655mm and 590mm for Defender 110 and Defender 90 respectively). It helps the wheels to maintain contact with the ground and follow the contours of rough surfaces.