In the battle of rugged off-roaders, Land Rover’s reimagined Defender 90 has emerged as a formidable contender aiming to throw dust in the face of Ford’s Bronco. The 2021 model year marked the much-anticipated return of the Defender to North American shores, a nameplate that conjures images of adventure and go-anywhere capability.

The Defender 90, with its two-door configuration, offers a unique blend of classic design and modern engineering — a nod to nostalgia with eyes firmly set on the future. At its heart, it possesses Land Rover’s D7x architecture, constructed from lightweight aluminum that ensures both strength and agility. This is complemented by fully independent air or coil-sprung suspension and permanent all-wheel-drive; essential for those who dare to tackle paths less traveled.

Beneath the iconic silhouette lies a potent powertrain lineup. There’s an efficient P300 turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine for those who prefer a more responsible approach without sacrificing zest. For enthusiasts driven by performance, there’s the P400 mild-hybrid that houses an inline six-cylinder engine buttressed by electric supercharging — designed to sling mud with supercharged eagerness and mild hybrid smoothness.

While its British heritage shines through with refined styling cues, the Defender 90 does not shy away from tech-laden features. It boasts ClearSight Ground View technology — effectively making the front of the vehicle ‘invisible’ to navigate high-street hurdles or rocky terrains with ease. Inside, drivers are greeted by the Pivi Pro infotainment system that sits at the intersection of intuitive use and technological prowess.