Shopping for a fast SUV that’s also rugged? If you are a big spender, the 2022 Land Rover Defender 90 V8 deserves your attention. Not only did Land Rover give this rugged vehicle a big V8, but the brand gave that same engine to the shorter Defender. The one that only comes with two doors. And that means you can get a shorter SUV with 518 horsepower. And that is truly insane.

What is the Land Rover Defender 90 V8?

The 2022 Defender 90 V8 is a powerful version of Land Rover’s rugged SUV. But, instead of being focused on off-road performance, this vehicle is aimed at on-road performance. The engine that comes with this vehicle is a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine. When measured in the U.S. numbers, it makes 518 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque. 

The best part about this version is that it comes with two doors. While that might not be as practical as a four-door variant, the Defender 90 V8 is just plain quirky and fun. It is about 17.1 inches shorter than the Land Rover Defender 110, and with its power output, that can be fairly nerve-racking. 

How expensive is the 2022 Defender 90 V8?

Now in order to get the power of this vehicle, you will have to pay a pretty penny. The MSRP is $106,260, and that is before options. But, it is cheaper than the Defender with four doors. For six figures, you get a unique take on what an SUV can be. And that is something to be appreciated. 

Other brands have given their SUVs more power. For instance, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 produces up to 470 hp. Although, Jeep only sells that option with the Wrangler Unlimited, which means no two-door fun. The upcoming Ford Bronco Raptor will also make legitimate power. So, if you want a performance SUV, there are plenty of options out there. 

Should you buy a Land Rover Defender with a V8?

If you want power, British heritage, and off-road chops, the Land Rover Defender 90 V8 is certainly worthy of consideration. That is, if you can afford it. The V8 engine offers plenty of low-end torque, but don’t expect to save any money at the fuel pump. 

This Defender has both independent front and rear suspension. And you’re going to need it to deal with the power it offers in its shorter variant. According to a test drive by Car and Driver, this vehicle appears to handle fairly well. Under heavy braking, there can be some wiggling. And, in some ways, the off-road nature of the Defender limits the kind of performance that you can actually take advantage of. 

There’s really no getting around the cost of this performance SUV. Plain and simple, it is a luxury product, which is typical for Land Rover. Even with its 518 hp, the interior feels comfortable and is adorned with premium materials. For the price, it seems like safety tech is lacking a little bit. Especially when compared to rivals which cost around the same.