Land Rover Classic Unveils Defender V8 Soft Top with Bespoke Options and Powerful V8 Engine

Land Rover Classic Revives Soft-Top Defender with Modern Engineering and Customization

Land Rover Classic has officially launched the Classic Defender V8 Soft Top under its Works Bespoke division, marking the return of the soft-top variant of the legendary off-roader. Sold exclusively in the short-wheelbase ’90’ form, this model is the first formal soft-top Defender offered since 2016.

Each vehicle is derived from a 2012–2016 Defender donor model, meticulously re-engineered to modern standards by the Land Rover Classic teams in Coventry, UK, and Essen, Germany. Designed for enthusiasts seeking a blend of traditional styling with modern engineering, the Classic Defender V8 Soft Top provides a unique one-to-one bespoke service experience.

Classic Defender V8 Soft Top: Design and Customization

The new soft-top variant features a bespoke canvas hood available in four colours: Black, Sand, Dark Khaki, and Navy. This hood design allows the side and rear panels to be unrolled and unzipped, offering flexible open-air driving while ensuring weather protection. Additionally, a limited Bikini Hood option covering only the front seats is available, paying homage to the North American Specification (NAS) Defender models.

Customers can choose from 49 standard paint colours or opt for custom match-to-sample finishes. Exterior customization options include configurable grilles, door handles, and bonnet scripts. Wheel choices include 16-inch Wolf wheels or 18-inch Sawtooth alloys to further personalize the SUV’s look.

Engine, Suspension, and Performance

Powering the Classic Defender V8 Soft Top is a 5.0-litre petrol V8 engine that delivers 405 hp and 515 Nm of peak torque, mated to an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission.

To enhance both off-road and on-road dynamics:

• Suspension has been upgraded with updated coil springs, Eibach anti-roll bars, and Bilstein dampers.

• Braking performance is improved with four-piston Alcon calipers and larger brake discs measuring 335mm at the front and 300mm at the rear.

These modifications ensure the Defender maintains its rugged off-road heritage while offering a smoother and more controlled on-road driving experience.

Features, Interior Options, and Pricing

Inside, the Classic Defender V8 Soft Top offers extensive luxury customization with five monotone and eight duo-tone leather trim colour options, including shades like Caraway, Liberty Blue, and Garnet. Lifestyle-oriented accessories, such as a wine cooler and surfboard rack, are also available, allowing owners to tailor the vehicle to their personal adventures.

The starting price for the Land Rover Classic Defender V8 Soft Top is £195,000 (approximately ₹2.22 crore) plus applicable taxes. Each unit comes with a one-year, unlimited mileage warranty.