2026 Land Rover Defender 90
Fuel Economy Overview
The 2026 Land Rover Defender 90 achieves an EPA-estimated 19 MPG in combined city and highway driving, with 18 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. Powered by a 2L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine paired with a automatic (s8), this standard sport utility vehicle 4wd features 4-Wheel Drive drive.
In terms of environmental impact, the 2026 Defender 90 produces approximately 465 grams of CO2 per mile. This figure is measured under standardized EPA test conditions and represents tailpipe emissions only. For context, the average new vehicle sold in the United States produces approximately 400 grams of CO2 per mile, meaning this Defender 90 has higher-than-average emissions in this regard.
The estimated annual fuel cost for this vehicle is $3,650, based on 15,000 miles of driving per year and current national average fuel prices. Compared to the average new vehicle, you would save $7,500 over a 5-year period. This calculation accounts for differences in fuel consumption efficiency and provides a practical measure of long-term ownership costs attributable to fuel economy.
Energy DNA
Green Scorecard
Personalized Commute CalculatorEPA defaults to 55% City / 45% Hwy
Adjust the slider to match your daily driving habits. City driving involves stop-and-go traffic under 45mph, while highway driving represents sustained speeds over 55mph.
The Brick Effect: Highway Speed Penalty
EPA highway tests average roughly 48 mph. Driving at 75 mph increases aerodynamic drag exponentially. Because the Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD has a large frontal area, expect your real-world highway fuel economy to drop by up to 25% at high speeds.
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Recall Intelligence
Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Land Rover) is recalling certain 2026 Land Rover Defender vehicles. The third-row lower seat belt anchorage bracket may have an insufficient weld stud.
Consequence & Remedy
Consequence: A seat belt assembly with an insufficient weld may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the third-row lower seat belt anchorage bracket or the weld-stud on the bracket, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 15, 2026. Owners may contact Land Rover's customer service at 800-637-6837. Land Rover's numbers for this recall are D098 and D113.
Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Land Rover) is recalling certain 2026 Land Rover Defender vehicles. The fuel tank was improperly manufactured with walls that are too thin.
Consequence & Remedy
Consequence: In the event of a crash, an improperly manufactured fuel tank may leak fuel, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel tank, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed June 19, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Land Rover's customer service at 800-637-6837. Land Rover's number for this recall is D127.
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Looking for comprehensive historical data?
NHTSA FARS (Fatal Crash History) and broader generational safety trends are aggregated at the model level rather than by specific engine configurations. View the complete historical data profile for all Land Rover Defender 90 configurations.
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Fuel Cost Analysis
Based on 15,000 miles/year and current fuel prices.
Efficiency Breakdown
Estimated Lifetime Carbon Footprint
(Based on 200,000 miles driven)