DEFENDER WINS BEST PREMIUM SUV AT WHAT CAR? AWARDS 2026
22 January 2026
- Defender named Best Premium SUV by What Car? judges
- Tough luxury 4x4 praised for having luxury credentials while staying true to adventure heritage
- Award follows recent Top Gear accolade for Defender
London, UK – Thursday 22 January 2026: Defender has been named Best Premium SUV at the What Car? Awards 2026, reaffirming its position as one of the most capable, versatile and desirable vehicles on the market.
Recognised for its unique blend of rugged capability, modern refinement and tough luxury, the Defender impressed the What Car? judging panel with its market‑leading breadth of capability and design credentials. The award is a latest in a long line for Defender, as expert automotive journalists continue to praise how the luxury SUV remains true to its heritage of adventure and tackling the impossible.
I’m thrilled to be able to add another accolade to Defender’s trophy cabinet, especially from the What Car? Awards. We’re extremely grateful to the What Car? team for recognising Defender’s position as the most capable car on any terrain, while also offering clients a true luxury experience on the road.
Leonie Raistrick
UK Brand Director, Defender
The modern Defender is still very much at home in the rough stuff – and thanks to electronic aids, much easier to drive off road than the old model. But at the same time, on‑road refinement and comfort are now superb, with the ride particularly good if you specify the optional air suspension. The Defender 110’s shape yields a hugely practical interior, too. And the driver benefits from a towering seating position and superb visibility.
Steve Huntingford
Editor, What Car?
Mark Cameron
The award was collected by Mark Cameron, Global Managing Director, Defender (pictured), in a ceremony at the JW Marriott Grosvenor Hotel in London, where hundreds of members of the automotive industry and media gathered to celebrate the best cars on sale in the UK today across a wide variety of categories.
Originally published by Land Rover
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