Land Rover enthusiasts were disappointed to hear that the 18-inch steel wheels are no longer available on the Defender for 2024. However, there is good news as Land Rover has introduced a set of white-painted aluminum wheels that closely resemble the beloved steelies. These aluminum wheels are part of the Defender County package and are eight pounds lighter than the previous steel wheels.
Steel wheels have always been admired for their ruggedness, simplicity, and cool appearance. In fact, they are so iconic that the Rolling Stones dedicated an entire album to them. Despite the nostalgia associated with steel wheels, the new aluminum wheels offer a modern and improved alternative. The Type 9013 20-inch aluminum wheels are included in the County exterior pack, along with a two-tone white-and-Tasman-Blue paint job. The aluminum wheels address the weight issue of steel wheels, making them a practical and stylish choice for Land Rover enthusiasts.
To demonstrate the difference in weight, Land Rover compared the 18-inch steel wheels to the 20-inch Type 9013 aluminum wheels. The steel wheels weighed 39.85 pounds, while the aluminum wheels weighed 31.96 pounds, resulting in an eight-pound difference per corner. This weight reduction contributes to improved vehicle dynamics, enhancing the overall driving experience. Land Rover mentioned that the aluminum wheels could be even lighter without the white paint, but the paint adds to the steelie aesthetic.
So, the next time you see a Defender with what appears to be steel wheels, take a closer look. The Type 9013 aluminum wheels may be driving light, but they certainly look heavy. The introduction of these aluminum wheels provides a blend of classic style and modern functionality for Land Rover Defender owners. With this upgrade, Land Rover continues to innovate and enhance the driving experience for its customers.