Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has updated its Defender line-up for the 2026 model year, announcing upgrades to the design and technology found across its 90, 110, 130 and OCTA models that make the Defender “more distinctive and ready for adventure than ever.”
From new finishes to new features, the entire 2026 Defender family has seen subtle changes including newly designed headlights and fog lights, and flush-fitting rear lights that have received a smoked lens treatment – and, according to JLR , there is “signature detailing” throughout. Further upgrades to the cars’ exteriors include “optimized” surfaces on the front and rear bumpers, and both the bonnet inserts and side vents have received a new textured pattern that the brand claims creates “a strong and adventurous look.” All 2026 models will also come with the new Defender-branded wheel caps in “Gloss Black” – as well as a grille-bar in the same color – as standard.
The color palette across the Defender range has also been refreshed and JLR has introduced two new colors, “Woolstone Green” and “Borasco Grey,” that compliment both the existing fleet and the other aesthetic changes the brand has implemented. Buyers can choose to splash one of these new hues across the main exterior of their chosen car, or reserve for detailing.
Inside, the cars now feature a larger 13.1-inch touchscreen and an ergonomically repositioned dash-mounted gear shifter. While the changes are subtle, the brand claims its new display “provides even more intuitive control for infotainment” and says that its “latest centre console design allows clients to make the most of the space on offer.”
The 2026 model year Defender is also being offered with Adaptive Off-Road Cruise Control for the first time, which JLR is making available as an optional feature, saying that it “automatically adjusts the speed to maintain the desired level of comfort over undulating surfaces, for unruffled off-road driving.” This technology lets the driver lock in a preferred comfort level while negotiating off-road, which in turn allows them to focus purely on steering, and it adjusts the speed automatically to maintain the driver’s preferred selection when moving over undulating surfaces. The brand has even introduced a feature known as “Driver Attention Monitor,” which uses a driver-facing camera to monitor the gaze of whoever is behind the wheel and provides “audio-visual alerts to help ensure they are paying attention to the road ahead” – if this puts you off, JLR says it can be “adjusted, enabled or disabled.”
Model-specific updates include an optional integrated air compressor that can be had with the Defender 130, allowing users to easily adjust tire pressures while out and about. Additionally, the Defender OCTA’s is getting a new “Textured Graphite” finish on the outside, which the brand says gives it an “even more rugged appearance.” The OCTA will also have the option of “Chopped Carbon Fibre” details to both the interior and exterior, as well as several other optional touches to improve – and customize – your aesthetic.
For more information, check out Defender’s website now.
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