Land Rover almost always delivers on a solid off-road performer. Analogous to our Jeep in 4×4 capability, the British automaker has prided itself on well-crafted machines for a higher price point, as well as producing models for long stretches of time.
Case in point – the Defender. Made since 1983, the SUV has become a staple in the off-road scene, and it seemed like the curtain had closed on the nameplate. This was because last year, Land Rover announced it was ceasing production of the Defender.
The Works V8 Defender comes with a 5.0-liter V8. It produces over 400 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque.
Seems that was all just a ruse, however, since the company is bringing back the Defender one more time, and stuffing a massive 5.0-liter V8 under the hood for good measure. There won’t be many of them – Land Rover says only 150 – but that’s enough to call it a comeback, and a glorious one at that.
Land Rover is calling these special Defenders “Defender Works V8.” The V8 makes 400 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, an increase of over 200 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque versus the standard Defender.
Supporting the V8 is an eight-speed ZF transmission, better brakes and suspension, and 18-inch alloy wheels with 32-inch all-terrain tires. Machined aluminum door handles, Recaro seats, Windsor leather, and other niceties round out the package.
So, what’s a Defender Works V8 going to set you back? Per the press release, these rigs start at £150,000, or $212,283. That’s a princely sum for any vehicle, but would you pay it for a Land Rover? Let us know in the comments below.