The Digest | New Jersey Magazine
Issue link: https://magazines.vuenj.com/i/1369261
It's like a lion's roar when you turn on the engine," said VUE Publishing Director Brian Kovener. The power comes in two choices. There's the turbo charged four cylinder P300 or the six cylinder mild-hybrid electrical P400. Don't expect to find a delineation, though, when it comes to adapting to the rules of the specific road. An eight-speed ZF automatic transmission and twin-speed transfer box gears up or down with smooth, responsiveness. Of course, the shift is hard to miss at the peak and/or valley of the off-road track of your choice. "It handles very well - off road, on road," said Kovener. "You can take this car anywhere." The Defender actually senses the change, and the technology automatically follows suit to match the terrain. Of course, the CPU isn't the only passenger intelligent enough to see the change. "You just flip a switch and program to go off road - just like that," said Kovener. On the other hand, a closer look reveals that the choices are more refined.There are three settings for throttle and gearbox response and steering and traction controls. This way both novices and experienced off-roaders can choose the settings that match their comfort level. So hold on, and those are more than just words. A die-cast magnesium alloy beam includes integrated grab handles and secures a grip in everyone's seats. But the straight away does run a little lighter on the four cylinder side. The P300 and its 296hp goes 0-60 in 7.7 seconds, while the P400 employs 395hp to reach 60 in 5.8 seconds. Time on your side, the P400 MHEV doesn't let anything go to waste. The e-friendly powertrain recaptures energy lost during deceleration and redeploys it to optimize performance. A belt integrated starter motor nixes the need for an alternator and does a pretty good number on enhancing the acceleration too. All good things must come due, and the stops won't disappoint. Under your toe, an actuator-controlled piston delivers the digression, and you'll only be waiting 150 milliseconds for V U E N J .C O M 149