Special edition Land Rover Defender revealed with 400bhp

Just like the original, the Defender Works V8 will be offered in both short-wheelbase 90 and long-wheelbase 110 versions.

While the iconic Defender was axed in 2016, Land Rover has resurrected 150 specially re-engineered units of the SUV to mark the company’s 70th anniversary.

Called the Defender Works V8, the new limited edition Defender has been specially built by Land Rover’s Classic division. The Works V8 is a fully re-engineered collector’s edition that houses a 400bhp, 5.0-litre atmospheric V8 petrol under its bonnet - in contrast, the stock defender was propelled by a 120bhp, 4-cylinder diesel engine. All thanks to that newfound V8 muscle, the retro-looking defender can dismiss the 0-100km/h sprint in under 6 seconds.  

A host of other changes have also been made under the Works V8’s skin to handle that V8 power. The SUV uses an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission with sport mode, the brakes have been updated, while a new handling kit comes standard - which consists of updated springs, dampers and anti roll bars, along with bespoke 18-inch alloys with 265/65 tyres.

A comprehensive lighting upgrade given to the Works V8, which includes bi-LED headlamps. The interior has also been blessed with extensive use of leather on the dashboard, door panels and headlining. Furthermore, passengers of this special edition Defender V8 will sit into Recaro sports seats and use Land Rover Classic’s own infotainment system.

Only 150 units of the Land Rover Defender Works V8 will be made, with prices starting from £150,000 (~ Rs. 1.31 crore).