Limited-edition Land Rover Defender: What to expect from the Works V8 Trophy

The model is based on an earlier version of the vehicle, but don't go thinking it'll need tender loving care just because of that

The Land Rover Defender Works V8 Trophy is based on an old vehicle, but it's ready for the rough stuff. All photos Nick Dimbleby

The classic Defender exterior has inspired the design of many an off-road vehicle since it was first unveiled.

The new badge, complete with obligatory mud spattering.

The Works V8 Trophy shows it is no slouch in the speed department.

The colour of the Works V8 Trophy is Eastnor Yellow, a hue named after the stately home where driving experiences take place.

Inside the Works V8 Trophy.

Traversing the estate at Eastnor Castle.

There are two body designs available, termed 90 and 110.

The bespoke dashboard clock comes courtesy of Elliot Brown.

It's good on tarmac, too.

The current Defender sits alongside its classic team mate.

That's no place to send a Chevrolet Spark.

Fans of off-road motoring classics will be happy to hear that Land Rover is making a special-edition Defender: the Works V8 Trophy.

Don’t let that ‘classic’ description put you off, though, as the manufacturer says this latest version is being built to tackle the most demanding endurance challenges.

Based on the last generation of the Defender before the model was temporarily shelved in 2016, the new offering will be fitted out with a five-litre engine (a V8, of course, as its name would suggest) and an eight-speed transmission. Its steering and braking capabilities have been significantly upgraded since its original appearance, and it will be fitted with 16-inch wheels.

Additional all-terrain kit on the Works V8 Trophy includes a front winch, a multi-point expedition cage, a roof rack, underbody protection, an A-bar, LED lights and mud-terrain tyres.

The cars will be finished in a yellow hue many will recognise from previous Defenders, with contrasting black flashes on the wheel arches, bonnet and rear door.

Inside, features include black leather upholstery, Recaro seats with yellow stitching and a bespoke-for-the-brand clock placed prominently on the dashboard. Land Rover Classic’s own infotainment system with integrated navigation and mobile device connectivity will also come as standard.

All very tempting, but the bad news for anyone who fancies seeing one in real life is that only 25 of the vehicles are being made.

Subject to Covid-19 restrictions, those who do get their orders in will be invited to take part in an event at Eastnor Castle, a stately home situated near England’s land border with Wales (this is a venue where customers could try out modern-day Defenders at experience days in pre-pandemic times).

Expert one-to-one tuition will be provided as part of the Works V8 Trophy adventure, giving customers an opportunity to learn techniques and develop skills in their own vehicle, before putting their training to the test.

Pricing for the Works V8 Trophy starts at £195,000 ($270,000).