Often considered the ultimate off-road machine, the Land Rover Defender has also become something of a cult icon, especially in the UK. These models originally designed for tackling the harshest of environments can often be seen displayed on London’s most infamous roads.

This particular car is certainly worthy of that lifestyle thanks in part to a brilliant specification, but mostly due to its great condition. Having spent much of its life pootling around Jersey, it has only racked up 43,000 miles and has been well cared for by its previous owners.

With the newest variant of the Defender now demanding hefty sums of money, this car has to be one of the best routes into immaculate Defender ownership.

Once you climb into this 2012 Land Rover Defender’s cabin and you’ll have trouble finding many signs of wear. Having spent the majority of its life on a small island in the middle of the English Channel, this car hasn’t had the chance to cover many miles, nor has it been particularly used and abused.

The previous owner was a proud lady that took care to preserve the near-immaculate condition of this short wheelbase Defender. As part of the top of the range XS trim level, this car features electric windows, air conditioning and heated leather seats which are in particularly good condition besides extremely light creasing to the driver side bolster. The driver’s seat presents a very upright driving position looking over the long bonnet, perfect for taking on offroad paths. Though, as the current owner mentions, this vehicle would look just as happy sat in front of a posh restaurant in central London.

Elsewhere, the dashboard and centre console controls look in great shape, including an aftermarket JVC stereo system. Contrasting the lush carpets of the front of the cabin, the rear is a more basic affair with a large storage area coated in plastic. Enough room to transport any rural necessities, a pair of foldable seats can also drop down into position allowing space for two more people aboard this vehicle.

The exterior is very much a similar case to the interior, presenting itself in great condition. Covering the short, dainty Defender 90 body is the popular bright silver metallic colour that can be seen on many Defenders from the same era. The colour compliments the body very well ever-more pushing the versatility of the car. Looking as good as this, we wouldn’t be surprised to see a similar example parading past Harrod’s.

From the front, the headlights and grille look in very good shape while the Land Rover badging is surely as resplendent as the day it left the factory. Towards the rear of the car, the large spare wheel cover dominates the rear end. It’s worth pointing out the clear taillights that set this car apart from other models. The tailgate has also been fitted with an uprated spring preventing it from slamming by accident.

All four wheels look in very good condition suffering from no visible marks that we can see while the tyres seem to have plenty of tread. All in all, this car looks in great condition and is surely ready to impress out on the open roads of the UK.

Under the large bonnet sits an inline-4 turbo diesel engine designed by Ford. Officially dubbed the Duratorq model, it’s commonly referred to as the Puma engine in UK markets. Coupled to a 6-speed manual transmission, it is enough to make this Defender 90 a supposed “pleasure to drive” according to
the owner.

Throughout its life, the hidden elements of this car have been just as pampered as the visuals. It has an excellent service history record and has covered minimal miles throughout its life. As well as mentioning how easy it is to drive on a variety of roads, be it the motorway or small country lanes, the owner states there are no rattles or shakes coming from the vehicle, it’s like “driving a virtually brand-new vehicle.”

Not only is this 2012 example of a Land Rover Defender 90 of excellent specification featuring all the top gizmos available in a Defender of its age, it has also been excellently pampered throughout its life.

Visually, the car is stunning with very minimal wear both inside and out, while the engine and running gear have seemingly been brilliantly maintained since the day it left the factory.

With the latest iteration of the Defender now reaching eye watering figures, this is a great opportunity to get into one of the best Defender generations around according to the current owner.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*