Land Rover Defender 130 Pick-up Review — Old School Oversized Adventure

In the realm of off-road royalty, the Land Rover Defender reigns supreme. For those who crave adventure beyond the pavement and require space to match their ambition, the 2016 Land Rover Defender 130 Pick-up Crew Cab stands out as a titan. Find this Land Rover Defender 130 Pick-up for sale on DubiCars by Bulk Motors.

History

The 2016 Defender 130 was the long-wheelbase version of the classic Defender, dating back to the 1983 Land Rover 127. It was known for its extra cargo space and seating and was popular in off-road-focused markets. Production ended in 2016, but Land Rover revived the Defender name on a new platform in 2019 without a direct 130 successor.

Exterior Design

The Defender 130 pick-up features rugged functionality with a boxy, practical design. The most striking aspect was its sheer size measuring over 5,170mm in length. The long wheelbase translated to a lengthy cargo bed behind the crew cab, making it a true workhorse.

Circular headlights, a slatted grille, and a boxy hood remained true to the Land Rover Defender heritage. Unlike modern SUVs, the Defender 130 prioritised function over form. The beige/tan canopy gives a good contrast to the white paint job on the body and the steel wheels.

Interior Design

The Defender 130 pick-up prioritised function over creature comforts in its interior design. The cabin is decked in durable materials like rubberised floors and hardwearing vinyl upholstery, which are easy to clean. 

land rover defender 130 pick-up specs price features details

Manual controls dominated the dashboard, with essential functions like climate control and audio knobs taking centre stage. Despite the focus on utility, the crew cab offered decent legroom and headroom for five passengers.

Technology

There are no fancy touchscreens or advanced driver-assistance systems, it’s old-school all the way. Here are the feature highlights:

  • AM/FM Radio With CD Player
  • Manual Climate Control 
  • Basic Trip Computer
  • Airbags
  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
  • Traction Control (TC)

Engine & Transmission

The Defender 130 pick-up uses a 2.2-litre turbo petrol engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission that drives all four wheels via a 4WD system.

2.2-litre Turbo Petrol Engine
Max Power122hp
Peak Torque360Nm
Towing CapacityAround 5,000kg

Driving Impressions

Engine & Gearbox:

This combination prioritises functionality over thrills. The engine provides the grunt needed for off-roading, and the manual gearbox allows the driver to extract maximum capability. While not the smoothest setup for daily commuting, it shines in the rugged environments the Defender 130 was built to conquer.

land rover defender 130 pick-up specs price features details

Suspension & Handling:

The suspension and handling of the Defender 130 are geared towards conquering off-road challenges, not carving up twisty roads. While it might not be the most comfortable highway cruiser, the suspension provides the necessary strength, articulation, and ground clearance to tackle tough terrain with confidence.

Offroad Ability:

Short front and rear overhangs along with high ground clearance ensured excellent approach, departure, and breakover angles for tackling tough terrain. The permanent four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case and locking differentials provided excellent traction and control in challenging off-road situations.

Review Verdict

The Land Rover Defender 130 pick-up isn’t a luxurious off-roader, but a utilitarian workhorse. Forget fancy tech features; this Land Rover is all about rugged engineering with a focus on off-road prowess, making it ideal for those who crave adventure and require a capable hauler to match their ambition. It can also be your next motorhome. 

Land Rover Defender 130 Pick-up In The UAE

The Land Rover Defender 130 for sale on DubiCars by Bulk Motors is a rare machine that has been preserved and maintained, pristinely. The seller has listed this pick-up at AED 369,000.

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