Land Rover Defender Review

2017-2023

The uniframe modern L663 generation reissue of the Land Rover Defender (2019–2023) represents the ultimate synthesis of futuristic luxury design, digital connectivity, and legendary off-road mastery in Kenya. Valued from KSh 11.5M to KSh 22M+ for immaculate direct imports.

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mandai score 7.5/10

*This score is awarded by our team of expert reviewers after extensive testing of the car

What’s good

  • Modern L663 uniframe architecture: Unmatched structural rigidity and high-speed stability.
  • Extreme off-road credentials: 291 mm max air clearance and 900 mm water wading capability.
  • Premium cabin technology: Pivi Pro infotainment with clear view ground camera technology.

What’s not so good

  • High import duty investment: Valued from KSh 11.5M up to KSh 22M+.
  • Complex electronics: Requires specialized Jaguar Land Rover diagnostic tools.

3905110130 doorsPetrol, Diesel, Plug-in hybridAutomatic

At a glance

Model
Land Rover Defender (L663 Series)
Production years
2019–2023
Body type
3-Door (90) / 5-Door (110 / 130) SUV
Seating capacity
5, 6, or 7
Fuel types
Petrol, Diesel, MHEV, PHEV
Engine sizes
1,997 cc (2.0L) / 2,996 cc (3.0L MHEV) / 4,999 cc (5.0L V8)
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain
Intelligent Permanent AWD with Terrain Response 2
Ground clearance
218 mm (up to 291 mm Air)
Source market
UK / Japan (RHD)

Fuel consumption

11.8 km/L8.5 L/100km combined
Combined11.8 km/L
City9.5 km/L
Highway13.8 km/L

Manufacturer / import-market figures: 11.8 km/L (P300) / 13.5 km/L (D250) / 30.0 km/L (P400e PHEV). Tank: 90 L (about 1062 km combined). Real-world use varies with load, traffic and altitude.

Running cost

KES 1,923 per 100 kmKES 19 per km
City driving
KES 2,389 / 100 km
Highway driving
KES 1,645 / 100 km
1,000 km a month
KES 19,234
Full tank (90 L)
KES 20,426

Based on petrol at KES 226.96/L, 15-10-2026 to 14-11-2026. Combined economy unless stated.

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Trims & variants

Setup

2.0L 4-cylinder turbo petrol (300 hp / 400 Nm), 8-speed automatic, permanent AWD.

Why it gets shipped

Sub-2,000 cc displacement saves over KSh 1.5M in KRA excise taxes.

Package tiers

Defender models imported from Japan feature various lifestyle and off-road packages.

PackageLevelKey features
SEExecutive luxuryLeather upholstery, 20-inch alloys, Pivi Pro 11.4-inch display, Meridian sound system.
HSE / X-DynamicSport premiumWindsor leather seats, panoramic roof, Matrix LED headlights, electronic active differential.
Defender X / V8Pinnacle performanceSatin dark grey wheels, orange brake calipers, air suspension, Head-Up Display.

About the Land Rover Defender

Kenya enforces an 8-year age limit and right-hand drive compliance. Models from 2019 to 2023 sit cleanly within the legal import window. The 2.0L P300 (1,997 cc) and P400e PHEV qualify for KRA's 25% excise duty tax bracket, while 3.0L D250/D300 and 5.0L V8 models trigger the 35% luxury excise rate.

Buying tips for Kenyan importers

  1. Test air suspension height adjustment across all off-road modes.
  2. Verify Pivi Pro software updates and camera module calibrations.

Disclaimer

Tax figures are estimates based on October 2026 KRA schedules. Always verify specific chassis CRSP entries with your clearing agent prior to purchase.

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