The 2026 Land Rover Defender gets a bold refresh with smoked rear lights, gloss black detailing, and a new Defender touchscreen as part of a broader Land Rover update to the Defender interior.
This 2026 Land Rover Defender update introduces a sharper exterior look and upgraded in-car tech while retaining the rugged DNA that defines the model.
The updated Defender touchscreen now measures 13.1 inches and replaces the older 11.4-inch version, improving visibility and functionality.
With this Defender interior redesign, Land Rover aims to keep the model competitive against other premium off-road SUVs.
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The Land Rover update begins with exterior changes to the 2026 Land Rover Defender, most notably the smoked taillights and a gloss black grille bar that now come as standard equipment.
Both the front and rear bumpers are finished in either silver or satin grey, depending on the specification.
A revised headlight design also features a smaller central element that creates a sharper lighting signature when activated.
These changes give the 2026 Land Rover Defender a cleaner, more aggressive look without deviating from its instantly recognizable design.
Inside, the interior is dominated by the new Defender touchscreen, which now spans 13.1 inches.
The larger display extends across the dashboard gap between the centre console and upper panel, offering a more modern and streamlined interface.
This Land Rover update also includes a driver-facing infrared camera mounted to the steering column.
The system monitors driver attention in accordance with new regulations, providing alerts if distraction is detected.
Drivers can adjust or deactivate the feature via the Defender touchscreen under driver assistance settings.
Another highlight in the 2026 Land Rover Defender is the introduction of adaptive off-road cruise control.
This new system is part of the Defender interior upgrades and helps the vehicle maintain a consistent speed across rough terrain by managing throttle and braking automatically.
While the Land Rover update brings new tech to the table, the powertrain options remain unchanged.
Buyers can choose from a 3.0-litre diesel straight-six with either 246hp or 345hp, a 296hp plug-in hybrid with 30 miles of electric range, or a supercharged 5.0-litre V8 with outputs up to 518hp.
The range-topping Defender Octa still uses a 626hp twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 supplied by BMW.
The 2026 Land Rover Defender stands out as a thoughtful evolution rather than a radical reinvention.
This Land Rover update is focused on refining the Defender’s interior and exterior to meet modern expectations while preserving its iconic appeal.
With the Defender touchscreen offering more functionality and driver aids improving safety and usability, the latest version of the 2026 Land Rover Defender is positioned to maintain its relevance in a crowded segment.
Starting at £57,135, it remains a compelling option for buyers seeking luxury and off-road capability in equal measure.
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