For what it is, the Defender 90 is nice to drive, but the likeability factor isn’t quite innate. Let me explain. So it’s a heavy, off-roader with a super rugged monocoque construction and a stiff aluminium body, all based on Land Rover’s legendary 4x4 foundations. But the engine powering this P300 version is a two-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine making 300bhp and 400Nm of torque. Doesn’t seem like a lot, right? Wrong.

The fact that it’s a two-litre engine hauling all of this obvious bulk would trick one into thinking that the performance might be dull though the reality is far from that. Progress at everyday speeds feels effortless, whether cruising on the city streets or quick sprints between the lights. Another really likeable thing about the Defender 90 is its automatic gearbox which is smooth and seamless for the most part. It’s not the quickest to react when you stomp on the throttle pedal, but it wouldn’t give you a reason to complain, either. I also like how refined the engine is at normal RPMs but is snarly and properly loud when you go full throttle.

The ride on the Defender 90 is fantastic despite the enormous wheels. It’s well damped and absorbent. Driving around on our monsoon-battered roads, the Defender 90 dealt with the unexpected potholes and roughness with ease. It’s just that you can hear some of the sharp edges filter into the cabin with a thud. The steering isn’t incredibly precise, but it is light enough, and even though you are always conscious of the tall stance as you drive along, overall, the Defender 90 is really nice to drive thanks to the eager engine, plush ride and the sort of agility that you get from its short wheelbase.

We didn’t get a chance to take the Defender on an off-road course this time, though we are looking forward to having it again for the annual CarWale Off-Road Day. So besides 4x4 with locking differentials, off-road driving modes, and air suspension with adjustable ride height, the Defender 90 also gets Land Rover’s very capable terrain response system, ground view camera and a wading depth of 900mm, which is incredible.