The world’s most iconic off-road legend has been reimagined. Urban Automotive and Heritage Customs, both leading bespoke vehicle specialists within the AM Group, have joined forces to create the world’s first coachbuilt Defender Pickup. Their collaboration introduces two distinctive interpretations of the Defender 130, combining cutting-edge performance with luxury craftsmanship.
Two Visions, One Legendary Platform
The partnership showcases a fascinating juxtaposition of styles. Heritage Customs, renowned for their coachbuilt tradition and timeless elegance, have produced a version that reflects classic refinement. Urban Automotive, in contrast, brings their contemporary OEM+ design philosophy to bear, delivering a commanding, modern presence. Both editions are built on the formidable Defender 130 platform, boasting a 425bhp V8 engine that promises exhilarating performance alongside bespoke design.
Heritage Edition: Sophisticated and elegantly understated, this edition draws on the brand’s rich coachbuilding heritage. Every line and detail evokes classic Defender styling while elevating it with modern craftsmanship, delivering a pickup that is as refined as it is desirable.
Urban Edition: Bold, aggressive, and contemporary, the Urban Edition emphasizes presence and power. With sharp, modern lines and a design ethos that pushes the boundaries of automotive aesthetics, this version embodies Urban Automotive’s signature style and ensures the Defender Pickup commands attention wherever it goes.
“Following the awesome Defender Soft-top by Urban collaboration revealed at Goodwood this year, we’re proud to announce another unique project between Urban Automotive and Heritage Customs – the Defender Pickup,” said Patrick Meijer, CEO of AM Group. “Using the unique design ethos of each brand has worked really well to create two exciting variations of the new Defender Pickup that push the boundaries of what’s possible in the luxury vehicle modification sector to exciting new levels.”
Jan-Pieter Kroezen, CEO of Heritage Customs, added: “After completing the convertible, it felt like the right time to bring another ‘forgotten’ model of the Land Rover Defender range back to life — the pickup. The classic 110 Defender crew cab has always been, in my view, one of the most desirable Defenders ever made. I had a strong sense that we could capture that same spirit with the new Defender 130, and I’m proud to say we’ve achieved exactly that.”
Exclusive Launch Event
The Defender Pickup made its first public appearance at a private, invitation-only event on 30 October 2025 at Heritage Customs’ headquarters in The Netherlands. Guests included select customers, industry partners, and media, all given the chance to experience the two contrasting designs up close.
Looking Ahead: UK Debut at Goodwood
Fans in the UK will get their first glimpse of the Urban Edition when it makes its official debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July 2026. Urban Automotive’s stand will showcase the production-ready version of the pickup, offering enthusiasts a rare opportunity to see a fresh interpretation of a classic off-road icon.
