Land Rover Classic Revives Defender V8 Soft Top with Bespoke Luxury

Abu Dhabi : Prices start at £195,000 plus applicable local taxes, with each vehicle receiving a one-year, unlimited mileage warranty.

Land Rover Classic has reintroduced the iconic Defender V8 Soft Top with modern luxury, a powerful 5.0-litre engine, and unmatched customisation for classic SUV enthusiasts.

Return of the Legendary Soft Top

Land Rover Classic has officially brought back the Defender V8 Soft Top, paying tribute to models like the NAS 90 from the 1990s. This new version is part of the Works Bespoke programme and is only available in the short-wheelbase 90 body style. 

It marks the first soft-top Defender offering since 2016 and is built with a focus on open-air freedom, craftsmanship, and exclusivity.

Powerful Engine and Improved Hardware

The vehicle is powered by a 5.0-litre V8 delivering 405hp and 515Nm of torque, paired with a smooth ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox. Land Rover Classic has also included:

Feature	Details
Engine	5.0-litre V8, 405hp
Transmission	8-speed automatic
Suspension	Eibach anti-roll bars, Bilstein dampers
Brakes	Alcon four-piston with 335mm/300mm discs

These upgrades ensure the Defender handles well on both highways and rugged terrains.

Endless Customisation for Collectors

The soft-top hood is available in four shades—Black, Sand, Dark Khaki, and Navy—with either a full soft top or smaller “Bikini Hood.” The roof design was inspired by the last classic Defender built in 2016. Clients can also choose:

• 49 paint options or request a match-to-sample finish.
• 16-inch Wolf wheels or 18-inch Sawtooth alloys.
• Five monotone and eight duo-tone leather seat options.
• Custom accessories like surfboard racks and wine coolers.

Dominic Elms, Director of Land Rover Classic, said, “With the Classic Defender V8 Soft Top, we provide an even greater opportunity to turn Classic Defender V8 dreams into reality.”

Handcrafted by the Best

Each Defender starts as a carefully selected donor vehicle built between 2012 and 2016. It is then stripped down and rebuilt to OEM standards in Coventry, UK, or Essen, Germany. The process includes:

• Suspension tuning for better comfort.
• Redesigned hood frame based on NAS 90.
• Authentic webbing and tie-downs.
• One-to-one personalisation support.

The result is a unique, road-ready Defender that balances heritage with modern luxury.

The return of the Land Rover Classic Defender V8 Soft Top combines nostalgia with engineering excellence. With premium customisation, V8 power, and authentic craftsmanship, this soft-top legend is back to turn heads in the UAE and around the world. Collectors now have the chance to build a truly one-of-a-kind off-roader with the original Defender spirit.