Why Buy a Used Land Rover Defender from Vertu?
The Land Rover Defender is one of the few cars that genuinely earns the word iconic. It arrived in 1948 as a working tool built for the world's toughest terrain. The current generation has turned that heritage into something even more compelling - a premium SUV and one of the most capable cars the Land Rover range has ever produced.
At Vertu, our used Land Rover Defender cars span the full modern range - from the compact, three-door Defender 90 to the eight-seat Defender 130, with a broad selection of trims and powertrains in between. You'll also find limited-edition variants - including the Carpathian Edition, First Edition, and Sedona Edition - each typically equivalent to SE or HSE specification with distinctive styling.
Browse our used Land Rover Defender cars for sale and you'll find Land Rover Approved Used examples alongside Vertu-prepared stock, all backed by our 14-day money-back guarantee and flexible finance options including PCP and HP.
Used Land Rover Defender: Which Body Style?
The Defender isn't one car - it's a family of four distinct body styles, each suited to a different kind of driver. The Defender 110 is the most common used car in our Land Rover stock and the best all-rounder for most buyers. But if you're after something more compact, more spacious, or frankly more extreme, the range has you covered.
| Body Style |
Seats |
Best For |
| Defender 90 |
2 or 5 |
Compact three-door shape with iconic short-wheelbase proportions. The instinctive choice for urban drivers and buyers who want the most distinctive, head-turning look in the range. |
| Defender 110 |
5 or 7 |
The everyday choice - and the most widely available in used stock. Five doors, optional third-row seating, and a 786-litre boot make it the family-ready workhorse of the range. |
| Defender 130 |
8 |
Extended wheelbase, maximum people-carrying capacity, and a genuinely commanding presence. Built for large families and extended adventures. |
| Defender Octa |
5 |
The most extreme factory-built Defender. Twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8, bespoke suspension, and exclusive design - findable in used stock but a rare and special find. |
If you're searching for a used Defender for sale with a working focus, stock also includes the Defender Hard Top - a commercial-derived version available in both 90 and 110 body styles, with a solid rear bulkhead and cargo-optimised load area, popular with tradespeople who need genuine off-road capability alongside practical carrying capacity.
Used Land Rover Defender Trims and Specifications
The Land Rover Defender trim ladder runs from the purposeful entry-level Standard through to the fully loaded X, covering everything from working-tool simplicity to genuine luxury. All trims share the same fundamental off-road capability - the differences lie in comfort, technology, and finish.
In used stock you'll also encounter limited editions including the Carpathian Edition, First Edition, and Sedona Edition, which map broadly to SE and HSE levels with exclusive exterior and interior detailing. The table below covers current-generation trim features - availability of specific items may vary on older used examples.
| Trim |
Best For |
Key Features |
| Standard |
Buyers who want the Defender's capability at the most accessible price point, without paying for luxury upgrades they won't use. |
Pivi Pro 13.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, heated front seats, Terrain Response, climate control. |
| S |
A meaningful step up in comfort and convenience without moving into premium pricing. The most practical everyday upgrade over Standard. |
Adds upgraded Resist and Resolve seat trim, heated power-fold mirrors, Meridian sound system, keyless entry, Adaptive Cruise Control, 19-inch alloy wheels. |
| SE |
The sweet spot for most used Defender buyers - a well-rounded specification that adds genuine everyday refinement. |
Adds 12-way heated electric front seats, premium LED headlights with Signature DRL, 20-inch alloy wheels. |
| HSE |
Families and longer-distance drivers who want near-luxury comfort and the option of a third row of seats. |
Adds Windsor leather seats, 14-way heated and cooled electric memory front seats, panoramic roof. |
| X-Dynamic |
Style-led buyers who want a sportier look - darker exterior detailing and a more distinctive presence without the full X price tag. |
Adds satin dark grey 20-inch wheels, Blind Spot Assist, Rear Collision Monitor, X-Dynamic exterior styling pack. |
| X |
The fully loaded Defender - for buyers who want everything from the factory, including the most premium interior finishes available. |
Full specification including 22-inch alloy wheels, Windsor leather and Kvadrat fabric cabin trim, and every available driver assistance feature as standard. |
Used Land Rover Defender Engines and Performance
The current Defender range covers three powertrain families - mild hybrid diesel, plug-in hybrid petrol, and V8 petrol. All variants pair with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and permanent all-terrain four-wheel drive. Not every engine is available on every body style or trim; the availability guide below the engine table covers the full picture.
The D250 diesel remains the standout choice for most used Defender buyers: smooth, torque-rich, and genuinely efficient for a large 4x4. For those with access to home charging, the P400e PHEV delivers strong tax efficiency and smooth, quiet urban driving alongside full off-road capability.
| Engine |
Type |
Key Stats |
| Diesel Mild Hybrid (MHEV) |
| D250 Diesel MHEV |
3.0-litre six-cylinder mild-hybrid diesel |
249bhp, up to 33.8mpg combined - strong torque for towing with respectable efficiency |
| D300 Diesel MHEV |
3.0-litre six-cylinder mild-hybrid diesel |
300bhp, up to 32mpg combined - present on many used examples; availability on new stock should be confirmed with a colleague |
| D350 Diesel MHEV |
3.0-litre six-cylinder mild-hybrid diesel |
350bhp - the most powerful diesel option, combining high output with six-cylinder refinement |
| Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) |
| P400e PHEV |
2.0-litre petrol plug-in hybrid |
404bhp, up to 27 miles electric-only range - ideal for efficient urban commuting. Available on Defender 110 only |
| V8 Petrol |
| P425 V8 |
5.0-litre supercharged V8 petrol |
425bhp, 0-60mph in 5.5 seconds, up to 20.0mpg - the performance V8 available across 90, 110, and 130 trims |
| P500 V8 |
5.0-litre supercharged V8 petrol |
500bhp, 0-60mph in 5.4 seconds, up to 19.7mpg - the higher-output V8 available on the Defender 130 |
| P635 V8 (Octa) |
4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol |
635bhp, 0-60mph in 3.8 seconds - exclusive to the Defender Octa, the most extreme factory-built Defender |
Engine availability varies by body style and trim. The table below covers the current new-car line-up; used stock will also include earlier engines - see the note below the engine table above.
| Trim |
Available Engines |
| Defender 90 |
| S |
D250, D350 |
| X-Dynamic SE |
D250, D350, P425 |
| HSE |
D250, D350 |
| X |
D350, P425 |
| V8 |
P525 |
| Defender 110 |
| S |
D250, D350, P400e |
| SE |
D250, D350, P400e, P425 |
| HSE |
D250, D350, P400e |
| X |
D350, P400e, P425 |
| Trophy Edition |
D350, P400e |
| Defender 130 |
| SE / HSE / X |
D350, P425 |
| Outbound |
D350 |
| V8 |
P500 |
| Defender Octa |
| Octa |
P635 |
| Defender Hard Top (90 & 110 - Commercial) |
| S / SE |
D250 |
| HSE |
D250, D350 |
| X |
D350 |
Used Land Rover Defender stock at Vertu also includes engines from earlier production years. The D200 and D240 are 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel units from the first generation of the current model, offering a more accessible entry point into the range. The P400 is a 3.0-litre six-cylinder mild-hybrid petrol producing 400bhp, present on many used examples before it was replaced in the current line-up. The P525 is a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 producing 525bhp, available on earlier 90 V8 models. All variants use an eight-speed automatic gearbox and permanent four-wheel drive. Our colleagues can help clarify specification and history before you enquire.
Practicality and Space
The Defender 110 is the practical heart of the range. The boot holds a generous 786 litres with five seats in place - more than enough for a week's worth of luggage, sports gear, or the family dog. Drop the rear seats flat and load space expands significantly further.
The optional 5+2 seating configuration on the 110 adds two rear-facing seats, giving larger families the flexibility of a full 7 seats when they need it. The Defender 130 takes this further with 8 seats as standard and an extended wheelbase that adds rear legroom without sacrificing the Defender's proportions.
The Defender 90 is the urban Defender of choice - ideal for tighter car parks and those who prefer the short-wheelbase look, without any compromise to front-row comfort or driver experience. Inside, the durable rubber loadspace flooring makes light work of cleaning up after muddy adventures, and the roof-mounted gear cubby adds practical everyday storage.
Note that the P400e plug-in hybrid's battery reduces boot volume by approximately 119 litres compared to equivalent non-hybrid 110 models, and the 5+2 third-row seating option is not available on the PHEV.
Key Features and Technology
Every Defender leaves the factory well equipped. These are the features that make the biggest difference day to day - and the optional extras most worth seeking out in used stock.
| Feature |
What It Does |
| Pivi Pro infotainment system |
Standard across the range with a 13.1-inch touchscreen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite navigation, and software over the air (SOTA) updates. |
| 3D Surround Camera |
Standard on all models, providing a detailed all-round view for parking and off-road terrain monitoring. |
| Heated front seats |
Standard across the range - a welcome level of comfort on UK mornings year-round. |
| Air Suspension Pack |
A highly desirable option in used stock, offering a noticeably more comfortable on-road ride and raised ground clearance at the touch of a button. |
| Heated steering wheel |
An individual option on higher trims - particularly welcome on cold UK mornings and well worth seeking out in used stock. |
| Heated windscreen |
Clears ice and condensation quickly without scraping - available as a standalone option across the range. |
| ClearSight Rear-View Mirror |
Replaces the traditional mirror with a live rear camera feed, giving an unobstructed view even with a fully loaded boot. Standard on the Defender X; worth checking for on other used examples. |
| Advanced Tow Assist |
Steers the trailer automatically while reversing, making even the trickiest towing manoeuvres accessible for less experienced drivers. |
| Terrain Response |
Land Rover's intelligent drive mode system, selecting optimal settings for mud, sand, grass, gravel, and rock crawling automatically. This is what makes the Defender genuinely go-anywhere, not just look like it can. |
Safety and Awards
The Defender earned a five-star Euro NCAP rating in 2020, scoring 85% for both Adult Occupant and Child Occupant protection. Standard active safety technology across the range:
| Safety Feature |
What It Does |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) |
Detects potential collisions with vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, and applies the brakes automatically to help avoid or reduce impact. |
| Lane Keep Assist |
Applies gentle corrective steering to help prevent unintentional lane departures. |
| Driver Attention Monitor |
Monitors driving patterns for signs of distraction and fatigue and alerts the driver to take a break - particularly useful on long journeys. |
| 3D Surround Camera |
Comprehensive all-round visibility for safe manoeuvring in both urban and off-road environments. |
| ISOFIX child seat points |
Rear ISOFIX points fitted across the range for quick, secure installation of compatible child seats; front passenger ISOFIX on higher trims. |
The Defender's award record reflects the regard it has earned across the industry:
| Award |
Recognition |
| What Car? Premium SUV of the Year 2026 |
Named Best Premium SUV at the What Car? Awards 2026 - recognition from the UK's most-read car buying publication that the Defender leads its class. |
| World Car Design of the Year 2021 |
Recognised globally for its reinterpretation of a motoring icon. |
| Top Gear Car of the Year 2020 |
Praised for its capability, refinement, and genuine toughness as a successor to the original. |
Approved Used Land Rover Defender
Vertu is a franchised Land Rover dealer, which means every eligible used Land Rover on our forecourt can qualify for the full Land Rover Approved Used programme - the manufacturer's own certified pre-owned standard.
For a car as technically complex as the Defender, that certification carries real weight. Every Approved Used Defender has passed a rigorous 165-point multi-point inspection carried out by Land Rover-trained technicians using genuine parts. Every system is checked - from the air suspension and Terrain Response to the Pivi Pro infotainment and all active safety technology.
What you get as standard with every Approved Used Defender at Vertu:
| Benefit |
Detail |
| Minimum 12-month Land Rover Approved warranty |
Full manufacturer-backed warranty cover from the date of purchase. |
| Minimum 12 months' 24/7 roadside assistance |
Around-the-clock recovery and roadside support included as standard. |
| 165-point multi-point inspection |
Every system checked by Land Rover-trained technicians before the car is offered for sale. |
| Reconditioning using genuine parts |
Any work carried out uses Land Rover genuine parts to manufacturer standard. |
| Nationwide delivery available |
We can bring your chosen Defender directly to your door across the UK. |
| Vertu 14-day money-back guarantee |
If your Defender doesn't meet your expectations within 14 days of purchase, we'll provide a full refund. |
Ask a colleague to confirm Approved Used certification on a specific vehicle, as eligibility varies by age and mileage.
Finance and PCP on a Used Land Rover Defender
Spreading the cost of a used Defender is straightforward with Vertu's flexible PCP finance and Hire Purchase (HP) options.
With PCP, you fix a deposit, a monthly payment, and an optional final balloon payment - giving you the flexibility to own the car outright, part-exchange it, or hand it back at the end of the term. HP is simpler: you pay the full value over the agreed term and own the car at the end. Both options are available with a range of deposit levels to suit different circumstances.
Business customers can also take advantage of Business Contract Hire (BCH), which keeps the Defender off the balance sheet and allows the monthly cost to be offset against tax. The P400e plug-in hybrid is particularly attractive for company car drivers - its low CO2 emissions from 74g/km translate to a significantly reduced Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax rate compared to diesel or petrol variants, making it one of the most cost-effective ways to run a Defender as a company vehicle.
Use our online finance calculator for an indicative quote, or speak to one of our colleagues in branch or online. Representative APR and eligibility criteria apply.
Buy Your Used Land Rover Defender from Vertu
Ready to find your used Land Rover Defender? Vertu's expert colleagues are on hand at our Land Rover dealerships across the UK to help you find the right body style, trim, and powertrain for your needs.
Explore our full range of used Land Rover Defender cars for sale, including Defender 110 for sale and Defender 90 listings, browse our new Land Rover deals, or find your nearest Land Rover dealership to book an appointment.
If you'd like to discuss servicing or aftersales support for your Defender, our Land Rover servicing team is here to help. For enquiries on Land Rover Defender prices UK, speak to one of our colleagues for a personalised quote.
Used Land Rover Defender FAQs
Which Land Rover Defender engine is best for me?
The right choice depends on your annual mileage and how you use the car. For high mileage, regular towing, or long-distance driving, the D250 or D350 mild hybrid diesel variants offer the most sensible combination of performance and efficiency. If you have access to home charging and cover a mix of short urban trips and longer runs, the P400e PHEV on the Defender 110 is hard to beat for running cost savings. For drivers who want V8 performance with their 90 or 110, the P425 delivers a serious step up in pace; the P500 and P635 are the preserve of the 130 and Octa respectively.
Can I buy a used Land Rover Defender on PCP finance?
Yes. Vertu offers PCP finance and Hire Purchase on the majority of our used Defender stock. With PCP, you agree a deposit, a monthly payment, and an optional final payment - giving you the choice to own the car, part-exchange it, or return it at the end of the term. Speak to one of our colleagues for a personalised quote, or use our online finance calculator. Representative APR and eligibility criteria apply.
What is Land Rover Approved Used and does it cover the Defender?
Land Rover Approved Used is Land Rover's own certified pre-owned programme, and it covers the used Land Rover Defender across all body styles and trims - subject to age and mileage eligibility. Every qualifying vehicle passes a 165-point inspection by Land Rover-trained technicians using genuine parts, and comes with a minimum 12-month manufacturer-backed warranty and 12 months' 24/7 roadside assistance.
Vertu is a franchised Land Rover dealer. Eligible used Land Rover Defender stock across our network meets the full Land Rover Approved Used programme standards. Ask a colleague to confirm certification on any specific vehicle you're considering.
The Approved Used programme also combines with Vertu's own 14-day money-back guarantee, giving you two layers of purchase confidence - manufacturer-backed and retailer-backed - on the same car.
Is the Land Rover Defender reliable for daily use?
The Defender is a capable, well-engineered car for everyday use and most owners find it dependable week in, week out. Every used Land Rover Defender at Vertu is prepared and checked before sale. For long-term peace of mind, Land Rover Approved Used Defender examples come with a minimum 12-month manufacturer-backed warranty. The Pivi Pro infotainment system has benefited from ongoing SOTA updates, and the latest software has addressed the majority of quirks reported on early examples.
What are the running costs for a used Land Rover Defender?
Running costs are competitive for a premium 4x4 of this size, particularly with the diesel and hybrid variants. The D250 diesel mild hybrid returns up to 33.8mpg on the combined cycle. Annual VED currently stands at £200, with a £440 luxury supplement in years two to six for vehicles originally priced over £40,000 - which covers most Defenders. For the P400e PHEV, home charging costs are based on your electricity tariff multiplied by the 19.2kWh usable battery capacity.
