Land Rover Defender Commercial Lease

A rugged 4×4 commercial vehicle built for capability, versatility and demanding work

The Land Rover Defender Commercial Lease has made a significant impact on the business vehicle market, offering a unique blend of rugged capability and refined versatility. For companies seeking a robust and adaptable vehicle, the Land Rover Defender commercial lease presents an attractive option. This leasing solution allows businesses to access the renowned Defender's strengths without the long-term commitment of ownership, providing flexibility and potential financial benefits. Source
This comprehensive guide delves into the world of Land Rover Defender commercial leasing, covering everything from lease terms and pricing to customization options. It explores the various models available, including the Defender 90 Commercial and Defender 110 Commercial, as well as the advantages of business contract hire for this iconic vehicle. By the end, readers will have a clear understanding of Land Rover Defender commercial lease deals, prices, and offers, enabling them to make an informed decision about whether this leasing option aligns with their business needs.

Overview of the Land Rover Defender Commercial

The Land Rover Defender Commercial, also known as the Defender Hard Top, brings a unique blend of off-road capability, durability, and practicality to the commercial vehicle sector. This versatile vehicle combines the rugged heritage of the Defender with modern features, making it an ideal choice for businesses that require a tough and reliable commercial 4x4.

Why the Land Rover Defender Commercial is a superb choice for UK business leasing

The Defender Hard Top boasts several key features that set it apart in the commercial vehicle market. It comes equipped with a practical cargo area separated from the occupants by a fixed full-height partition. This bulkhead enhances security and safety while maintaining the refined driving experience of the passenger model. The partition includes four hanging hooks on the loadspace side and two stowage nets on the cabin side of 110 models for small items.
The vehicle's interior has a full-width load floor that is completely flat, featuring up to six integrated lashing points and heavy-duty rubber mats. For added convenience, there are lockable storage areas providing 58 liters of underfloor stowage at the rear of both the 90 and 110 models. The 110 Hard Top also has an additional underfloor area where the footwells of the passenger model would normally be, offering 155 liters of hidden stowage.
To enhance visibility in the cargo area, the Defender Hard Top has enhanced interior lighting that is five times brighter than the standard passenger Defender. The passenger compartment features high-sided rubber mats in the front footwells, adding to the vehicle's rugged nature. For easy cleaning, the all-rubber floor coverings can be hosed down.

Available Models Land Rover Defender Commercial Lease

The Land Rover Defender Hard Top is available in two body designs: the Defender 90 Hard Top and the Defender 110 Hard Top. The 90 is the smaller three-door model, while the 110 is the long-wheelbase (LWB) version with five doors. Both models are based on the passenger SUV but have been converted to commercial 4x4s by replacing the rear seats with a flat, full-width load area and a tough, full-height bulkhead.
The Defender 90 Hard Top comes exclusively in Defender specification, while the Defender 110 Hard Top offers a choice of four specifications. Both models are equipped with independent coil-sprung suspension, with advanced Electronic Air Suspension available on the 110.
Power options for the Defender Hard Top include a range of advanced Ingenium diesel engines paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and twin-speed transfer box. The Defender 90 Hard Top features the D200 in-line six-cylinder engine producing 200PS and 500Nm of torque. The Defender 110 Hard Top is available with the D250 or D300 in-line six-cylinder diesel engines, featuring MHEV technology.

Cargo Capacity Land Rover Defender Commercial Lease

The Defender Hard Top offers impressive cargo capacity, making it suitable for a variety of commercial applications. Here's a breakdown of the load space dimensions for both models:

Specification
Defender 90 Hard Top
Defender 110 Hard Top


Maximum load length
1,031mm
1,472mm

Maximum load width
1,326mm
1,423mm

Maximum load height
947mm
937mm

Width between wheelarches
1,124mm
1,160mm

Maximum load volume
1,355 liters
2,059 liters

Payload
670kg
778-800kg (depends on Engine & Specification Pack)

The Defender Hard Top's load area is accessed via a side-hinged rear tailgate. The 110 variant also features rear side doors, which improve practicality by allowing access to smaller items located towards the front without having to move bulky objects.
In addition to the standard cargo space, Land Rover offers a range of storage accessories for the Defender Hard Top, including roof racks with ladder access and external storage boxes that can be fixed to the side panels above the rear wheels. These options further enhance the vehicle's versatility and cargo-carrying capabilities.

Benefits of Leasing a Land Rover Defender Commercial

 

Financial Advantages

Leasing a Land Rover Defender Commercial offers several financial benefits for businesses. One of the most significant advantages is the potential for VAT savings. VAT-registered businesses can reclaim a portion of the VAT paid on rental payments, which can lead to substantial savings over time. Additionally, companies can reclaim all of the VAT paid on optional service maintenance and repair packages, further reducing overall costs.
Another financial benefit is the low initial outlay required for leasing. Unlike purchasing a vehicle outright, leasing typically involves lower upfront costs, allowing businesses to preserve their capital for other investments. The regular rental fees associated with leasing also make budgeting easier and more predictable for companies.
For those opting for Land Rover Contract Hire, there's an added incentive of a complimentary Pod Point Smart home charger and installation offer for electrified products. This can result in significant savings for businesses looking to incorporate eco-friendly vehicles into their fleet.

Flexibility Land Rover Defender Commercial Lease

Flexibility is a key advantage of leasing a Land Rover Defender Commercial. Businesses have the freedom to choose the model and options that best fit their needs, allowing them to select the trim level, color, and features that align with their requirements and brand image. This flexibility extends to the lease term as well, with options typically ranging from 24 to 36 months.
One of the most appealing aspects of leasing is the ability to change the contract term and mileage if circumstances change. This adaptability ensures that businesses can adjust their vehicle arrangements to match evolving needs, although it's worth noting that changes may not be possible during the first and last six months of the contract.
At the end of the lease term, businesses have the option to simply return the vehicle without the worry of selling it, as ownership remains with Land Rover Contract Hire. This eliminates the hassle and potential financial loss associated with vehicle depreciation and resale.

Access to Latest Models Land Rover Defender Commercial Lease

Leasing provides businesses with the opportunity to access the latest Land Rover Defender Commercial models without the long-term commitment of ownership. This means companies can enjoy the most up-to-date features, technologies, and designs that Land Rover offers.
The Land Rover Defender Commercial, also known as the Defender Hard Top, is available in two body designs: the three-door Defender 90 Hard Top and the five-door Defender 110 Hard Top. These vehicles offer impressive cargo capacities, with the 90 version providing 1,355 liters of load space and the 110 version offering 2,059 liters.
By leasing, businesses can upgrade to newer models more frequently, typically every 24-36 months. This ensures that their fleet remains modern, efficient, and aligned with the latest advancements in commercial vehicle technology. It also allows companies to maintain a professional image by consistently operating newer vehicles.
Moreover, leasing provides access to a range of Land Rover models, including the Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, and the Discovery. This variety allows businesses to choose the most suitable vehicle for their specific needs, whether it's for urban deliveries, off-road capabilities, or executive transport.

Lease Terms and Options

Land Rover offers flexible leasing options for its Defender Commercial vehicles, allowing businesses to tailor their agreements to suit their specific needs. These options encompass various aspects of the lease, including contract lengths, mileage allowances, and initial payments.

Contract Lengths Land Rover Defender Commercial Lease

Businesses have the freedom to choose contract terms ranging from 24 to 60 months. This flexibility enables companies to align their vehicle leasing strategy with their long-term business plans. Shorter terms of 2-3 years allow for more frequent vehicle updates, while longer terms of 4-5 years can result in lower monthly payments.
It's worth noting that Land Rover provides the freedom to change the contract term if circumstances change. However, this option is typically not available during the first and last six months of the agreement. This flexibility can be particularly valuable for businesses experiencing growth or changes in their operational requirements.

Mileage Allowances

When leasing a Land Rover Defender Commercial, businesses need to estimate their annual mileage. The minimum contract annual mileage for all vehicles, whether petrol or diesel, is 5,000 miles per annum. For diesel vehicles, the maximum contract mileage is set at 150,000 miles, while for petrol vehicles, it's capped at 120,000 miles.
It's crucial to accurately estimate the annual mileage as it directly impacts the monthly rental payments. Underestimating mileage can lead to excess charges at the end of the lease term if the agreed mileage is exceeded. Conversely, overestimating might result in unnecessarily higher monthly payments.

Initial Payments Land Rover Defender Commercial Lease

The initial payment, also known as the initial rental, is a key component of the lease agreement. Businesses have the flexibility to choose an initial rental equivalent to between 1 to 12 months of their regular monthly payments. Alternatively, they can opt for a lump sum payment.
The amount of the initial payment has a direct impact on the subsequent monthly rentals. A higher initial payment will result in lower monthly rentals for the remainder of the lease term. This option allows businesses to structure their payments in a way that aligns with their cash flow and financial strategies.
After the initial payment, businesses will make regular monthly rental payments over the agreed term. These payments include VAT and Vehicle Excise Duty, which are charged at the prevailing rate and may vary during the life of the agreement.
It's important to note that VAT-registered businesses can reclaim a portion of the VAT paid on rental payments. Additionally, they can reclaim all of the VAT paid on optional service maintenance and repair packages, potentially leading to significant cost savings over the lease term.
At the end of the lease agreement, businesses have the option to return the vehicle to Land Rover. If the vehicle has not exceeded the contracted mileage and has been kept in good condition in line with the BVRLA Fair Wear & Tear guidelines, there will be nothing further to pay. However, if the vehicle does not meet the mileage and condition terms, excess charges will apply.
Land Rover's Business Contract Hire is available for new vehicles and is exclusively offered to business customers. It's crucial to understand that under this agreement, businesses will not own the vehicle, and failure to maintain contractual rentals may result in legal action.

Pricing and Costs Land Rover Defender Commercial Lease

 

Monthly Lease Payments

The cost of leasing a Land Rover Defender Commercial varies based on several factors, including the model, contract length, and mileage allowance. Businesses can choose from a range of options to suit their specific needs and budget. For example, a typical lease agreement might include:
The duration of the agreement is typically 49 months, with a mileage allowance of 10,000 miles per annum. However, these terms can be adjusted to meet individual business requirements.
 
It's important to note that these figures are representative and may change based on specific vehicle configurations and market conditions.

Additional Fees Land Rover Defender Commercial Lease

When considering a Land Rover Defender Commercial lease, businesses should be aware of potential additional fees:

1. Purchase Fee: A nominal fee (e.g., £10) is often included in the final payment.

 

1. Excess Mileage Charges: If the vehicle exceeds the agreed mileage limit, a charge per excess mile will apply. For example, a charge of 16.8p (including VAT at 20%) per excess mile might be applied if the vehicle surpasses 40,833 miles over a 49-month contract.

 

1. Customer Incident Charge (CIC): This is an excess payment required if the lessee is found to be "at fault" in an incident. The CIC typically follows an escalating structure:
   
   
   • First incident: £250
   
   
   • Second incident: £350
   
   
   • Third and subsequent incidents: £750
   
   
   

For high-value electric vehicles, the CIC may be higher, ranging from £1,000 to £2,000 depending on the model.

4. Customer Elected Payment (CEP): If a repair cost is lower than the CIC, the customer will only be charged for the actual loss, known as a CEP.

Insurance Considerations Land Rover Defender Commercial Lease

Insurance is a crucial aspect of leasing a Land Rover Defender Commercial. While some leasing options, such as the Pivotal subscription service, include comprehensive insurance for the main account holder and one additional driver, this is not always the case with standard lease agreements.
For commercial vehicles like the Defender Hard Top, insurance considerations can be more complex:

1. Commercial vs. Personal Use: The vehicle is registered as a commercial vehicle, which can have implications for insurance. Businesses intending to use the vehicle for personal purposes should clarify this with their insurance provider.

 

1. Specialist Insurers: Some insurers specialize in Land Rover vehicles and may offer more competitive rates. It's worth exploring these options, especially if standard insurers provide high quotes due to the vehicle's commercial status.

 

1. Mileage Restrictions: Insurance policies may have mileage restrictions. For example, some policies might offer coverage for 3,000 miles per year at a rate of around £350.

 

1. Additional Drivers: Adding multiple drivers to the policy may affect the insurance cost.

 

1. Self-Insurance: In some cases, particularly if the lessee doesn't meet standard eligibility criteria, self-insuring the vehicle might be necessary.

Businesses should carefully consider these insurance factors when budgeting for a Land Rover Defender Commercial lease, as they can significantly impact the overall cost of the leasing arrangement.

Customization and Specifications

The Land Rover Defender Commercial offers a range of customization options and specifications to suit various business needs. From powerful engine choices to diverse trim levels and optional features, this versatile vehicle can be tailored to meet specific requirements.

Engine Options Land Rover Defender Commercial Lease

The Defender Commercial comes with a selection of advanced Ingenium engines, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a twin-speed transfer box as standard. The engine lineup includes:

1. D200: Available in the Defender 90 Hard Top, this 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbodiesel engine produces 200hp and 500Nm of torque. It features mild hybrid (MHEV) technology for improved fuel efficiency and performance.

 

1. D250: Offered in the Defender 110 Hard Top, this engine delivers 249hp and 570Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0-62mph in 8.4 seconds, providing ample power for most commercial applications.

 

1. D300: The most powerful option for the Defender 110 Hard Top, producing 300hp and 650Nm of torque. This engine can propel the vehicle from 0-62mph in just 7.0 seconds.

All engines incorporate mild hybrid technology, which harvests and stores energy typically lost during deceleration. This stored energy is then redeployed to assist with acceleration, enhancing efficiency and performance.
 

Trim Levels. Land Rover Defender Commercial Lease

The Defender Commercial is available in several trim levels, each offering a unique set of features and specifications:

1. Defender (90 and 110): The base trim includes 18-inch steel wheels, LED headlights, a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a 3D surround camera.

 

1. S (110 only): Adds 19-inch alloy wheels, auto high-beam assist, keyless entry, and a part-leather interior.

 

1. SE (110 only): Features 20-inch alloy wheels, premium LED headlights, a Meridian sound system, and blind-spot assist.

 

1. HSE (110 only): Offers matrix LED headlights, full leather upholstery, 14-way adjustable heated and cooled front seats, and a driver assist pack.

 

1. X-Dynamic HSE (110 only): Includes 20-inch satin dark gray alloy wheels and Ebony Windsor leather seats with Robustec accents.

 

1. X (110 only): The top-tier trim features 20-inch diamond-turned wheels, matrix LED headlights, and Ebony Windsor leather seats with Kvadrat textile accents.

Optional Features

Land Rover offers an extensive list of optional features to further customize the Defender Commercial:

1. Exterior Packages: Choose from the Explorer Pack, Adventure Pack, or Urban Pack to enhance the vehicle's capabilities and esthetics.

 

1. Roof Options: Select from three different roof configurations to suit specific needs.

 

1. Wheel Options: A variety of wheel designs and sizes are available, ranging from 18 to 20 inches.

 

1. Interior Upgrades: Options include premium audio systems, advanced climate control, and luxurious seating materials.

 

1. Technology Enhancements: Add features like the ClearSight rear-view mirror, adaptive cruise control, and an 11.4-inch touchscreen.

 

1. Practical Additions: Opt for lockable underfloor storage, rubber mats, or a front jump seat for added versatility.

 

1. Towing Equipment: An electric winch with a maximum pulling force of 4,536 kg is available for demanding tasks.

These customization options allow businesses to tailor their Land Rover Defender Commercial to specific operational requirements, ensuring the vehicle is perfectly suited to its intended use.

Conclusion Land Rover Defender Commercial Lease

The Land Rover Defender Commercial lease offers businesses a unique blend of rugged capability and refined versatility. This leasing solution has an influence on companies seeking a robust and adaptable vehicle without the long-term commitment of ownership. The flexibility in contract lengths, mileage allowances, and customization options allows businesses to tailor the vehicle to their specific needs, while the financial advantages, including potential VAT savings and low initial outlay, make it an attractive choice for many.
To wrap up, the Land Rover Defender Commercial lease presents a compelling option for businesses looking to enhance their fleet with a capable and versatile vehicle. The range of models, engine options, and trim levels ensures that companies can find the right fit for their operational requirements. With the added benefits of accessing the latest models and technologies, along with the peace of mind of predictable monthly payments, leasing a Land Rover Defender Commercial is worth considering for businesses seeking a reliable and impressive commercial vehicle solution.

FAQs

What is the tax classification of the Land Rover Defender by HMRC?
The HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) does not classify the Land Rover Defender as a commercial vehicle for tax purposes; it is considered a car despite its commercial features.
Can the Land Rover Defender be categorized as a commercial vehicle?
Post-2011, all classic Defender models are generally categorized as "Commercial" vehicles, which qualifies them for Commercial road tax with the DVLA. This classification typically applies to hard tops and pickups.
What is the typical lead time for a Land Rover Defender Commercial?
The estimated delivery time for the Defender 90 and 110 models ranges from three to twelve months, depending on the configuration. The Defender 130 model may have a waiting period of up to nine months.
What models are available in the Land Rover Defender Commercial version?
The commercial variants of the Land Rover Defender are the Hard Top 90 and Hard Top 110. Both models offer robust capability for both on-road and off-road driving, and they have a towing capacity of up to 3,500kg.