There isn’t much the Defender can’t handle. After all, the bare-bones utility four-wheel drive has survived dozens of combat roles, the Camel Trophy, and slightly less arduous roles played as a workhorse at home on the farm. Simply put, the only thing the Defender can’t tackle is the European Legislation that spells the end of the iconic model at the end of this year.
To celebrate the heritage and history of the vehicle that has been around for almost 60 years, Land Rover has unveiled three final special edition Defenders; because one just wouldn’t have been enough. We’re okay with that.
Autobiography Edition
Aimed at the well-to-do enthusiast who wants to have the newest, most-expensive Defender, the Autobiography Edition brings more power and more luxury. They’ve managed to squeeze an additional 20kW, and an extra 40Nm out of the 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine. There’s also a leather wrapped dash, a full windsor leather interior with semi aniline seats, LED projector headlamps, and a variety of metal and aluminium goodies to give it a premium feel. It’s all combined to make what Land Rover is calling the ‘most desirable Defender ever built’.
Heritage Edition
Paying homage to HUE 166, the first pre-production Series I Land Rover, the Heritage Edition Defender sports love-it-or-hate-it Grasmere Green metallic paint with matching wheel arches, and a contrasting white roof. Enthusiasts will note the colour-matched ‘wolf’ steel wheels, and the Series-inspired front grille. The almond cloth interior matched with aluminium accents gives the interior a modern, yet timeless feel. The differential lock and gear selector even wear the colours of their respective Series brethren. This one keeps vinyl floors and does away with some of the more luxury bits the other special editions have.
Adventure Edition
Keen to show that the Defender is still the expedition vehicle of choice for many explorers, the Adventure Edition combines a comfortable interior with a racy yet practical exterior. It’s equipped with a variety of off-road ready accessories, including underbody protection for the engine and side sills, and the availability of an expedition-grade roof rack and raised air intake. The custom grille is exclusive to the Adventure Edition, and the model also features a contrasting Santorini Black bonnet, roof, rear door and wheel arches regardless of the colour chosen (of which it’s available in three). The interior gets the full windsor leather treatment, with plenty of luxurious bits to keep you comfortable on your next ‘expedition’.
Vehicles will be hitting our showrooms in November, with Australian prices to be announced later this year. Unfortunately the Autobiography version won’t be making its way here.
Visit The Factory
The last Defender will roll off the Lode Lane assembly line in Solihull, England in December of this year. If you just can’t bear the thought of living without seeing how a Defender is made before they’re gone, Land Rover is now offering enthusiasts the opportunity to do a tour of the factory. For around $90, you’ll get to witness every aspect of the production process first-hand, and you’ll be tour the new Celebration Line exhibit; which aims to transport visitors back to 1948 when the first Land Rover was new. You’ll need to arrange a visit, as spots are first come, first served – expect them to go fast.
Matt Scott
