Land Rover Defender 1998-2002 2.5 TD5 122bhp remap figures
The Land Rover Defender 2.5 TD5 122bhp (1998-2002) is a diesel 2.5L model making 122bhp and 300Nm as standard. After a Stage 1 ECU remap we expect 172bhp and 381Nm - up to 50bhp and 81Nm more than stock.
Choose your map
Stage 1 remap figures
A Stage 1 remap is a software-only change to the ECU on an otherwise standard car. It needs no extra parts, which makes it the usual starting point.
| Stock | Vanguard expected | Expected gain, up to | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | 122 bhp | 172 bhp | +50 bhp |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 381 Nm | +81 Nm |
All maps at a glance
| Map | Power | Torque | Expected gain, up to |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock | 122 bhp | 300 Nm | |
| Stage 1Maximum software-only performance | 172 bhp | 381 Nm | +50 bhp +81 Nm |
| Stage 1 EcoPerformance with economy in mind | 160 bhp | 375 Nm | +38 bhp +75 Nm |
| Eco mapEconomy first | 156 bhp | 370 Nm | +34 bhp +70 Nm |
Who is the Stage 1 map for?
- Drivers who want stronger pulling power for overtaking, hills and towing, with no parts to fit.
- Daily and motorway drivers who want the engine to feel less strained at cruising speed.
- Anyone who wants the biggest software-only change we list for this engine.
What this means for your Defender
Diesel remaps work mainly on boost pressure, fuel delivery and torque limiters, which is why the Nm gain is usually the figure you feel in everyday driving, particularly when overtaking or towing.
The ECU recorded for this variant is a MEMS (27C1024). Older engine management is simpler to work with, but age matters: worn sensors, leaks and tired components can hold back what a remap delivers, which is why we run a diagnostic check first.
We remap at our Belgrave Gate workshop in Leicester, or at your home or work within 30 miles, and every job starts with a diagnostic check.
Please note: these are expected figures, not guarantees. Real results vary with the condition of the vehicle, the ECU software version, fuel quality and the hardware fitted. Some options - including Stage 2 and anything that needs extra hardware - are for off-road or competition use only. We check every vehicle first and confirm what is achievable before any work starts.
Figures reviewed 22 October 2026.
Stage 1 questions
How much power does the Stage 1 map give the Land Rover Defender 2.5 TD5 122bhp?
We expect 172bhp and 381Nm against 122bhp and 300Nm as standard: up to +50bhp and +81Nm. These are expected figures, and we confirm what is achievable on your own car after a diagnostic check.
Does a Stage 1 remap need any extra parts on the Land Rover Defender 2.5 TD5 122bhp?
No. Stage 1 is a software-only change to the ECU on an otherwise standard car.
Is there a gentler map than Stage 1 for this engine?
Yes, two. Stage 1 Eco is performance with economy in mind: 160bhp and 375Nm expected. The Eco map is economy first: 156bhp and 370Nm. Both still sit above the standard 122bhp and 300Nm.
Do I need to tell my insurer about a remap?
Yes. A remap is a modification, so you should declare it to your insurer.
More Land Rover Defender figures
Other diesel variants
All diesel Defender variants · Defender 1998-2002 overview · All Land Rover figures