Land Rover Towing Guide: What Makes Defender So Capable?

How Much Can a Defender Tow?

Depending on configuration, the Defender can tow up to 8,200 pounds. That gives the SUV enough capacity for many recreational trailers, boats, utility trailers, and other equipment. Exact towing capacity depends on vehicle specification and equipment, so shoppers should verify the rating for the specific Defender they are considering.

What Is Advanced Tow Assist?

One of Defender’s most useful towing technologies is Advanced Tow Assist. Reversing a trailer can be one of the most difficult parts of towing, particularly for drivers who do not tow regularly.

Advanced Tow Assist helps by controlling the vehicle’s counter-steering while the driver uses the touchscreen to guide the trailer. The system displays trajectory information to help the driver understand where the trailer is expected to travel.

Four-Wheel Drive and Terrain Response

Towing capability is about more than a maximum weight rating. The Defender also uses all-wheel drive and Terrain Response technology to help manage traction across changing surfaces.

Terrain Response can adjust vehicle settings for conditions such as mud, sand, snow, and other challenging surfaces. That can be especially useful when a trailer needs to travel beyond paved roads.

For a deeper explanation of the system, read our Land Rover Wichita guide to Land Rover capability, or compare Defender with other luxury SUVs available at the Walser Auto Campus.

Defender for Outdoor Adventures

Towing is only one part of Defender’s utility. Depending on configuration, Defender can also offer substantial cargo capacity, roof-load capability, available winching equipment, and water-wading technology.

The result is an SUV designed around versatility rather than simply transportation. Whether the destination is a lake, campsite, trailhead, or weekend project, Defender gives drivers a combination of passenger space, towing capability, and off-road technology.

Choosing the Right Defender for Towing

When shopping for a Defender, consider the trailer you plan to tow, its loaded weight, the number of passengers you regularly carry, and the type of terrain you expect to encounter. Configuration and equipment can affect towing capability.

For comparison shopping, drivers can also explore the BMW SUV lineup, Lexus SUVs, and Mercedes-Benz SUVs at the Walser Auto Campus.