Meet the adventure-ready Land Rover Defender Works V8 Trophy

KUALA LUMPUR: The original Land Rover Defender is known for its boxy design, engineering capability, and off-roading potential all around the world. The British automaker again brings this to life for a new generation of adventurers with the unveiling of the Defender Works V8 Trophy. The special edition is a heavily modified version of the iconic model and pays tribute to the Camel Trophy off-road competition, which was specifically known for hosting modified classic Defenders.

Limited to just 25 units, the Defender Works V8 Trophy is particularly based around the 2012-2016 model with a host of upgrades. Starting with the engine, the new Defender has a 5.0-litre naturally-aspirated V8 unit that has been tuned to produce a maximum power of 399 hp and a peak torque of 515 Nm. The engine is coupled with an eight-speed automatic gearbox with a pistol shifter, a two-speed transfer box, and an all-wheel-drive system.

The suspension, steering, and braking systems of the SUV also received updates. The automaker has enhanced the SUV’s off-road prowess with the enhancements like a front winch, multi-point expedition cage, underbody protection, roof rack, raised air intake, A-bar, LED spotlights, and mud-terrain tyres.

Talking about the appearance, the Defender Works V8 Trophy features a retro-looking Eastnor Yellow body paint with black accents on the wheel arches, rear door, and hood. The new paint is teamed with some other styling features such as a heritage front grille, LED headlamps, 16-inch steel wheels, and a Land Rover Trophy badge. 

The retro-look also continues Inside the rugged SUV where it boasts Recaro sports seats, black leather upholstery with yellow stitching, bespoke Land Rover Trophy clock face, and Land Rover Classic's infotainment system with navigation and smartphone connectivity. 

Land Rover offers the special edition in both 90 and 110 body styles with a price starting from £195,000 (RM 1,087,623). Later this year, the buyers of the Works V8 Trophy will be invited to a three-day adventure event at Eastnor Castle in Herefordshire. At the event, each buyer will also get one-to-one tuition from a team of seasoned drivers, including stunt driver and Land Rover ambassador Jessica Hawkins.

“Experiences are a key part of Land Rover Classic’s DNA and this whole concept comes directly from feedback we’ve received. Our customers want to create their own stories, battle scars, and patina with their Works V8 Trophy vehicles from day one, fuelling campfire chats with like-minded enthusiasts,” Land Rover Classic director Dan Pink said.

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