Welcome, this is a great place for ideas, suggestions, inspiration and accurate (mostly) technical advice.
You've asked some questions that are difficult to answer without knowing more about what you plan to do with your Defender.
First, you mention "comfortable daily driver". I assume you know a Defender will never be 'comfortable' like a Bentley. You can have nice seats, good stereo, air conditioning, etc.
I am not an expert on axles but if your 'daily driver' means paved roads at reasonable speeds and no drag racing, the stock axles will get you started. If (when) you break an axle, time to upgrade!
That being said, there are some relatively inexpensive upgrades using later Rover parts. Yes, I know the search function on this forum isn't very good, but ther are many good threads here about axle options.
Personally, if you aren't doing a lot of off road, I'd strongly consider no lift. Going more than 2 inches lift can be expensive if done properly. Lift can be added later.
Will you be doing the LS swap yourself? Or are you taking it to a shop? Either way, talk to as many people as you can who have worked on Defenders at this level of modification.
Keep asking questions. If you want a Defender, ignore the curmudgeons suggesting a Jeep.
Unless you are rock crawling, I really do not recommend lifting your truck.
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