Land Rover revives classic Defender generation, V8 engine with 405 hp, 515 Nm
Due to difficulties in meeting safety and emission regulations, Jaguar Land Rover made the decision to cease production of the classic Defender in 2016.
The introduction of the new generation Defender model in 2019 brought about significant changes, as it now uses an aluminum monocoque chassis instead of the previous body-on-frame construction.
However, this technological change does not mean that Land Rover will forsake the classic Defender generation.
Through the Works Bespoke division, Land Rover has announced a project to bring back the classic off-road SUV with a V8 engine offering.
It is not a completely new model, but rather a restomod project based on donor models from 2012-2016 and is available in the practical short-wheelbase 90 or 110 versions.
The mentioned V8 engine is capable of producing a high power of 405 hp and 515 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission.
The suspension has been upgraded with the use of Bilstein dampers, Eibach springs, and an anti-roll bar, while the braking system utilizes four-piston Alcon calipers with 335mm front rotors and 300mm rear rotors.
In the cabin, Land Rover still maintains the old-school dashboard layout, but with the addition of a small 3.5-inch touchscreen complete with satellite navigation and digital radio.
In addition, there are Recaro front seats, as well as a choice of leather trim with five single-tone colors or eight dual-tone trim options.
Land Rover also offers customization packages ranging from roof tent and ladder installations to transforming it into a camping vehicle.
The price for a Land Rover Defender 90 starts at £190,000 (RM1.08 million), while the 110 five-seat version starts at £199,000 (RM1.13 million).
There is a 110 variant with seven seats available, for which the price is stated as £204,000 (RM1.16 million).
If the stated cost is too high, there is a more affordable alternative.
In the UK, there is an off-road SUV called the Ineos Grenadier, inspired by the Land Rover Defender, with a starting price of £65,015 (RM398,875).
It is powered by a straight-six 3.0-liter engine with an output of 282 hp/450 Nm for the petrol version, or 245 hp/550 Nm for the diesel version, paired with an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission.
