Land Rover is expanding its Works Bespoke program with a legendary Defender body style that blends classic toughness with modern craftsmanship.
Although Land Rover ended production of the original Defender in 2016, the British automaker has never truly moved on from its legendary off-roader.
Through its Classic division, Land Rover has continued preserving the spirit of the original 4×4 by creating V8-powered “remastered” Defender models through its exclusive Works Bespoke program.
And now, the program is becoming even more exciting.
The Defender double-cab pickup returns
When Land Rover first introduced its Classic Defender V8 commissions, the program focused exclusively on the traditional station wagon body style.
That has now changed.
One of the biggest additions to the Works Bespoke lineup is the return of the Defender 110 double-cab pickup, bringing back a body style that combines everyday practicality with old-school Defender character.
The addition makes the factory-restored Classics even more appealing. After all, vehicles like the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster prove there is still strong demand for rugged pickups that combine off-road ability with usable cargo space.
A more versatile Defender lineup
The double-cab pickup joins other unique Defender Classic options, including the previously revived Defender 90 soft-top model.
Land Rover is also introducing another two-seat hard-top configuration, giving customers more ways to personalize their custom-built Defender.
The double-cab pickup made its official debut alongside four special commissions finished in the same eye-catching Spectral Green color.
But these weren’t ordinary paint jobs.
A color-changing Defender unlike any other
The iridescent Spectral Green finish creates a dramatic color-shifting effect, changing between shades of green and purple depending on the lighting.
The customer didn’t stop at the body panels, either.
The same treatment was applied to the wheels, exterior badging, and select interior details, creating a fully coordinated design theme.
The bold paint is contrasted by a white roll cage and roof accents, giving the Defender a distinctive expedition-inspired appearance.
More than just a visual upgrade
While the styling may grab attention, the real appeal of Land Rover’s Classic Defender V8 commissions comes from the engineering underneath.
Each vehicle begins life as an original Defender built between 2012 and 2016. The vehicles are carefully stripped down, upgraded, and rebuilt by Land Rover’s team of expert technicians according to each customer’s specifications.
Under the hood, every commission receives a 405-horsepower V8 engine.
To handle the additional performance, Land Rover also upgrades key components with:
- Bilstein dampers
- Eibach springs
- Alcon braking systems
The result is a Defender that maintains its classic character while offering a significantly improved driving experience.
Modern technology meets classic design
Land Rover is also expanding the Defender Classic experience with several interior and technology upgrades.
A new 9-inch infotainment system replaces the original smaller unit, adding modern features such as:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay
- Bluetooth connectivity
Despite being much larger than the original setup, the new system is designed to blend neatly into the classic Defender interior.
Additional customization options include expanded roof paint choices, new colors for heavy-duty Wolf-style wheels, and a new Shadow Trophy Pack featuring darker exterior trim.
Together, these additions create a much broader range of personalization options for Defender enthusiasts.
Exclusivity comes at a price
Of course, a handcrafted Land Rover Classic Defender V8 was never going to be affordable.
While Land Rover has not announced pricing for the new double-cab pickup configuration, the Defender 90 Classic V8 already starts at around £190,000 (approximately $250,000 USD).
The larger Defender 110 commands an even higher starting price.
For buyers who want a truly unique Defender built around their exact preferences, Land Rover’s Works Bespoke program offers something few other manufacturers can match: a factory-backed restoration combined with modern performance and luxury.
