Land Rover Classic has launched a new limited edition of its Defender Works V8, inspired by the Scottish island of Islay and its famous whisky distilleries.
The Land Rover Classic Defender Works V8 Islay Edition is a bespoke version of the restored and upgraded Defender that was first introduced in 2018 to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the legendary off-road vehicle.
Only 25 units of the Islay Edition will be produced, each with a unique exterior color, interior trim, and bespoke features that reflect the heritage and craftsmanship of Islay’s whisky industry.
A tribute to Islay’s whisky culture
The Land Rover Classic Defender Works V8 Islay Edition is available in two body styles: 90 (short wheelbase) and 110 (long wheelbase). The exterior color is Ardbeg Bronze, named after one of the most famous distilleries on the island.
A contrasting Santorini Black roof, wheel arches, bonnet, grille, and rear door complement the color. The 18-inch Sawtooth alloy wheels are also finished in Santorini Black, while the brake calipers are painted in Ardbeg Bronze.
The front and rear bumpers are made of aluminum and feature LED daytime running lights and fog lamps. The side steps, door handles, fuel filler cap, and spare wheel cover are also made of aluminum.
The Islay Edition also features a special badge on the front grille and rear door, depicting a map of Islay with the coordinates of the Land Rover Experience Center at Ardtalla Estate, where customers can test drive their vehicles on challenging off-road courses.
The interior of the Islay Edition is equally distinctive, with a bespoke design that pays homage to Islay’s whisky culture. The seats are upholstered in Vintage Tan leather with Ebony piping and stitching, while the dashboard, door panels, headlining, and steering wheel are also covered in leather.
The center console features a custom-made wooden panel that resembles a whisky barrel lid, with the Land Rover logo and the vehicle’s unique number engraved on it. The panel also houses a hidden compartment that contains a bottle of 16-year-old Lagavulin single malt whisky and two branded glasses.
The interior also features a premium sound system with a subwoofer and amplifier, a classic-looking infotainment system with navigation and smartphone connectivity, air conditioning, heated seats, electric windows, remote central locking, and an alarm system.
A powerful performance
The Land Rover Classic Defender Works V8 Islay Edition is a stunning vehicle to look at and a powerful one to drive. It is powered by a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine that delivers 405 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque.
The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission with sport mode and paddle shifters, as well as a two-speed transfer box and a torque-biasing center differential. The suspension, brakes, and steering have also been upgraded to improve the handling and ride quality of the vehicle.
The Islay Edition can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds (6.2 seconds for the 110 model) and reach a top speed of 106 mph (limited). It also has a towing capacity of up to 7,716 pounds (3.5 tons).
A rare opportunity for collectors
The Land Rover Defender V8 Islay Edition is a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to own a piece of Land Rover history. Only 25 units will be made, each with a starting price of $270,000 (199,000 GBP) for the 90 model and $290,000 (215,000 GBP) for the 110 model.
Customers can order their vehicles online or through Land Rover Classic’s dedicated sales team. The vehicles will be hand-built at Land Rover Classic’s facility in Coventry, UK, and delivered to customers in early 2024.
A unique experience for customers
The Land Rover Classic Defender Works V8 Islay Edition is not only a stunning vehicle to own but also a ticket to a unique experience for customers. Each buyer will be invited to participate in the next installment of the exclusive Land Rover Trophy competition organized by Land Rover Classic.
The Land Rover Trophy is a three-day adventure that challenges customers to test their driving skills and vehicle capabilities on some of the most demanding off-road terrains in the world. The event also allows customers to meet fellow Land Rover enthusiasts, learn from expert instructors, and enjoy luxury hospitality.
The next Land Rover Trophy will take place in 2024 at the Ardtalla Estate on Islay, where customers will be able to explore the stunning scenery and wildlife of the island, as well as visit some of its renowned whisky distilleries. Customers will also receive a bespoke welcome pack, including a limited edition watch from Elliot Brown inspired by the Islay Edition.
The Land Rover Classic Defender Works V8 Islay Edition is a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to own a piece of Land Rover history and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For more information or to place an order, visit www.landrover.com/classic or contact sales@classic-jaguarlandrover.com.
