Pretoria, South Africa – 29 April 2025 — Land Rover Classic has rekindled the spirit of open-air adventure with the launch of the Classic Defender V8 Works Bespoke Soft Top – a handcrafted tribute to one of the most beloved shapes in 4×4 history. Meticulously engineered and masterfully assembled, this exclusive short-wheelbase model merges timeless design with modern mechanical excellence, reviving the essence of soft-top motoring for a new generation of discerning enthusiasts.
Paying homage to the rare and revered NAS 90 of the 1990s, the Classic Defender V8 Soft Top embodies the perfect fusion of heritage, capability, and craftsmanship. Available solely as a made-to-order vehicle, each example begins its new life as a carefully selected 2012–2016 Solihull-built Defender 90, undergoing a full transformation by the expert hands at Land Rover Classic.
Tailored by the Original Masters
Every Soft Top is rebuilt from the ground up to OEM standards, with hundreds of hours of bespoke engineering and finishing work poured into every detail. The exterior is crowned by a custom canvas hood – available in four classic shades including Black, Sand, Dark Khaki, and Navy – designed with authentic military-inspired tie-downs and removable side and rear panels for a pure open-air driving experience.
Taking visual cues from the final Defender Soft Top produced in 2016, the new model’s frame has been reimagined to reflect the rugged elegance of the original NAS 90. For those seeking a more minimalist look, a ‘Bikini Hood’ configuration – covering only the front row – is also offered in the same curated colour palette.
Performance That Matches the Looks
At its heart beats a 5.0-litre Land Rover petrol V8 engine, delivering 405PS (400 hp) and 515Nm of torque through a smooth-shifting ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s a powertrain that promises exhilarating performance, whether tackling gravel tracks or gliding through the urban jungle.
Beneath the surface, an upgraded suspension system – featuring revised coil springs, Eibach anti-roll bars, and precision Bilstein dampers – ensures refined handling and comfort while preserving the Defender’s renowned off-road prowess. Stopping power is equally assured, courtesy of uprated Alcon four-piston brakes with ventilated 335mm front and 300mm rear discs.
Luxury, Personalised
Inside the cabin, the level of personalisation rivals that of the finest bespoke coachbuilders. Clients can choose from five monotone or eight duo-tone Windsor leather interiors, in rich hues such as Garnet, Liberty Blue, or Caraway. From the door handles and grille to bonnet script and alloy wheels, almost every detail can be tailored to individual tastes.
A staggering 49 paint finishes are available, alongside a match-to-sample colour service for those who demand true uniqueness. Whether outfitted with classic 16-inch Wolf wheels in Black or Limestone, or the more aggressive 18-inch Sawtooth alloys, every Defender Soft Top is a singular statement of style.
For those with unique lifestyle aspirations, Land Rover Classic goes even further – offering custom accessories like surfboard racks or onboard wine coolers, turning each build into a one-of-one masterpiece.
A Statement of Provenance
The Classic Defender V8 Soft Top represents not only an exceptional vehicle but a deep connection to Land Rover heritage. “With the Classic Defender V8 Soft Top, we provide an even greater opportunity to turn Classic Defender V8 dreams into reality,” says Dominic Elms, Managing Director at Jaguar Land Rover Classic. “Clients enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing their vehicle has been engineered and built by the people who know the Defender best.”
Availability and Pricing
Available exclusively through Land Rover Classic’s facilities in Coventry, UK, and Essen, Germany, each vehicle is backed by a one-year, unlimited mileage warranty. Prices start from £195,000 (plus applicable local taxes), reflecting the unparalleled craftsmanship, engineering, and exclusivity at the heart of every build.
To begin your journey in creating a one-of-a-kind Classic Defender Soft Top, visit landrover.com/classic, call +44 (0) 2476 566 600, or email [email protected].
