The Land Rover Defender is one of the most iconic cars out there. Since its introduction in 1983, it has remained true to its core values as an off-road vehicle. With the latest version, the British brand wants to prove that the Defender is equally at home on tarmac and dirt roads. So, what’s our take on the Land Rover Defender 90?

Smooth on the Road

When driving the new Land Rover Defender 90, one notices an undeniable road presence. At almost 2 meters in height and width, we overlook most other vehicles on the road, while sitting in the driver seat. Surprisingly, the car remains maneuverable and doesn’t feel as bulky as one might expect. With its 400hp, it also delights with great power in situations requiring acceleration and speed.

A huge step was taken in terms of driver assistance. The Land Rover Defender 90 now comes with state-of-the-art cruise control, speed limiter, land keep assist and 3D surround camera. A digital instrument panel and a large 11-inch entertainment screen offer easy accessibility to all these features.

Overall, the interior of the Land Rover Defender 90 is a clever mix of utility and discreet luxury. A combination the British brand is well known for. True to its DNA, there's a tastefully integrated rustic feel to the interior. Exposed bolts are on the doors and metal is visible on both the steering wheel and dashboards. Still, we don’t have to miss modern day luxuries like heated seats, 3D panoramic cameras and a Meridian sound system. All we can ask for as businessmen when driving on the highway or in the city. But what about the explorer inside of us, would he buy it too?

Serious Off-Road Capabilities

While most consumers don’t drive their SUVs off-road, someone in Switzerland or the Scottish Highlands might! And this is where the Land Rover Defender 90 differs from its competition. It can conquer a wide range of terrains, from snowy mountains to deserts and rivers.

The engineers equipped it with all necessary tools to prevail when facing rough terrain. The most important is its electronically controlled suspension. At the push of a button, the ground clearance can be lowered by 40mm, or raised by 75mm to 145mm. This radically transforms the height of the car and allows it to overcome any obstacle. Aided by its 4-wheel drive, it has a variety of driving modes that will support the pilot in challenging situations. One example is the elevated air intake. With it we  don't have to worry about crossing rivers or cruising through deserts.

Our Take on the new Land Rover Defender 90

For us, the new Land Rover Defender 90 strikes the perfect balance between the iconic Defender look and feel and modern day comfort and safety. The updated infotainment and driver assistance make it comfortable to drive on the road while the off-road capabilities have also been enhanced further. In our opinion, this is the perfect vehicle for someone looking to drive an iconic SUV that comes with modern technology.

If you want to learn more about the 5 door version, then read this article.

The Swiss Canton of Grisons is known for its many beautiful valleys. One of them is called Schanfigg and is a true jewel of the Swiss Alps. This wild mountain valley has kept its original character and cultural features to this day. Here, imposing white mountains and romantic snow covered forests invite guests to experience unforgettable holidays - especially if they stay in the Arosa Kulm Hotel!

Alpine Test Drives

There is a particular reason for our visit at the Arosa Kulm Hotel. Guests who stay at the hotel are in for a treat this year, because the hotel has entered a collaboration with Land Rover. It is now possible to do test drives of the new Land Rover Defender and the Range Rover SVAutobiography. Something we definitely have to do!

Driving the new Defender in this mountainous terrain is a dream come true. We can feel how this vehicle was designed to be driven in this kind of environment. It is exhilarating to feel this car's power and versatility in the challenging terrain of the Swiss Alps.

While the Range Rover SVAutobiography was not specifically designed to take on snow-covered roads, it is still astonishing to experience this luxury car's capabilities in such terrain. This test drive proves again, that Range Rover cars benefit greatly from the engineering know-how available at Land Rover.

Activities & Relaxation

Besides thrilling test drives, the hotel also offers pure relaxation with a breathtaking view over the mountains. Guests can enjoy pampering massages and relaxing moments in the pool and sauna area.

For people who are still longing for more adventure, Arosa has a lot to offer. The fantastic ski area Arosa Lenzerheide with its 225 km slopes starts right in front of the Arosa Kulm Hotel. Cross-country skiers are also in for a treat because 26 km of cross-country trails wait to be discovered.

Experiencing Arosa Kulm Hotel

The history of the Arosa Kulm Hotel dates back to 1882. Back then, a hotel with 30 rooms called "Kurhaus" was opened. Today, the hotel has kept some of the spirit from this era. Although, rooms have been added and renovated on a regular basis. Junior Suites come with a bedroom and separable living room with sofa and comfortable armchair. The perfect amount of space for a week in the Alps with marvelous mountain view!

Another wonderful witness of ancient times is the perfectly preserved "Nostalgiebar" which is used as smoker's lounge. Here, guest can enjoy a drink and cigar in an authentic environment. The hotel has a nice selection of cigars and spirits available for enthusiasts to choose from.

Right next to the bar we find a large library with a beautiful wooden floor and large windows offering beautiful views. There is a big selection of books and a cozy fireplace to settle down and enjoy a snowy afternoon. For those having a competitive spirit, a pool table is waiting.

Culinary Delights

People looking for authentic Swiss cuisine will be pleased by the Muntanella restaurant situated inside the Arosa Kulm Hotel. Chef Florian Mainzger and his team have been looking for new and old local specialties to bring the flavors of the Swiss Alps on the guests' plates. Here, we enjoy alpine cuisine to the fullest!

One of the culinary highlights is the Ahaan Thai restaurant. It is a true Thai palace amidst the Swiss mountains. But why does the Arosa Kulm Hotel serve food from the Far East? Well, in the 1930s, the Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej learned to ski in Arosa and stayed at the Arosa Kulm Hotel. Ever since, Thai Cuisine has been a part of the hotel. Today, chef Tussanee and her team enchant guests with authentically prepared Thai delicacies.

Want to read more about adventure with the new Land Rover Defender? Then read this story!

When the first snow transforms the Alps into a winter wonderland, it is time to go out there and explore. The ideal companion for adventures in the snow is the new Land Rover Defender. We took on a Christmas getaway and realized that it is the ideal car for challenging conditions. Let us tell you more!

Christmas time in the Alps

Christmas is the most magical time of the year. Snow covered trees, fairy lights and warm, comfy living rooms filled with laughter and joy. For us, there is no better place to experience the Christmas spirit than in the Swiss Alps.

This year, Santa has put something special under the Christmas tree: a Favre-Leuba Sky Chief Chronograph. The ETA Valjoux powered watch comes with a beautiful burgundy dial with subtle brown subdials. A matching brown suede strap is complimenting the 43mm steel case perfectly.

While giving is a wonderful part of the Christmas festivities, the joy of being together and spending quality time with loved ones is what makes this holiday so special. When staying in a chalet high up in the mountains, the atmosphere is filled with the warmth of candles, the fire place and joy.

Exploring with the new Defender

For adventures in the snow, one needs a trustworthy companion. We found it in the new Land Rover Defender. This vehicle has been designed for optimum durability. Hence, it can handle extreme terrains and confidently takes us from the urban jungle into icy environments.

We love how the new Defender is honoring the vehicle’s history for rugged solidity while thoroughly remaining a Defender for the 21st century. This is most felt inside the car. Here, we find technology that was invented for modern-day adventures. Land Rover's most intuitive technologies to date ensure convenience, connectivity and visibility.

In terms of design, the new Land Rover Defender convinces us with its reductive, sophisticated surfaces. True British design with integrity!

One thing Favre-Leuba and Land Rover share, is their aim to push the boundaries of innovation. Their timepieces and cars offer a definitive reliability, built to accompany pioneers throughout all domains.

Do you want to know more about SUVs? Then click here and read our blogpost about a journey through Scotland's Highlands with the Jaguar F-Pace SVR.