DEFENDER'S CLASSIC DIVISION LAUNCHES NEW UPGRADE PROGRAMME, CROWNED BY WORKS V8 CONVERSION

23 September 2026

Defender’s Classic division has launched a new upgrade programme for Defender 90 and 110 models built between 2007 and 2016*, offering genuine enhancements including wheels, suspension, brakes and performance upgrades. Headlining the range is the new Defender Works V8 Conversion, enabling eligible owners to transform their vehicle with a 405hp 5.0‑litre V8 engine, upgraded chassis components and enhanced braking, delivering the ultimate blend of performance, refinement and classic Defender character.

  • Defender’s Classic division now empowers clients to transform their cherished Defender with a range of new upgrades
  • Designed for Defender L316 90 and 110 models, upgrade options include wheels, suspension and braking enhancements for improved performance and on‑road dynamics
  • Flagship Defender Works V8 powertrain conversion sits at the top of the upgrade programme, enabling clients to transform their Defender into a Works V8 for the first time

COVENTRY, UK – 23 SEPTEMBER 2026: Defender’s Classic division has launched a new upgrade programme for Defender 90 and 110 models from 2007 to 2016, offering a range of genuine enhancements from alloy wheels and chassis upgrades to performance‑focused improvements. The programme is crowned by the Defender Works V8 5.0‑litre petrol conversion, available exclusively for 2012 to 2016 Defender 90 and 110 models, designed for clients seeking the ultimate expression of Defender performance, refinement and usability.   

The upgrade programme enables owners to select from a range of enhancement packages, all developed and engineered by Defender’s Classic experts. Cosmetic upgrades include 16‑inch steel and 18‑inch alloy wheels, available in diamond‑turned and painted finishes. Alcon four‑piston callipers front and rear, combined with larger 335mm vented front and 300mm rear discs, deliver enhanced braking performance for optimum stopping power. To improve handling and ride quality, the upgraded suspension package features Bilstein dampers, Eibach coil springs, anti‑roll bars, links and bushes. 

Clients can purchase cosmetic and dynamic upgrade packages directly through the Land Rover Classic Parts website for self‑fitment, or order them through a local authorised retailer for installation. All packages, including the dynamic upgrade, can also be fitted by specialist technicians at Defender’s purpose‑built Classic Works facilities in the UK and Germany.  

At the pinnacle of Defender’s Classic upgrade offering, the new Defender Works V8 Conversion empowers clients to transform their own Defender, benefitting from the ultimate performance enhancement while preserving the spirit of their cherished Defender.  

The comprehensive conversion transforms the driving experience, pairing Land Rover's naturally aspirated 5.0‑litre petrol V8 engine, producing 405hp and 515Nm of torque, with an eight‑speed ZF automatic transmission for effortless performance and responsive drivability. Chassis and handling enhancements include a new chassis, upgraded Bilstein dampers, Eibach coil springs, anti‑roll bars, links and bushes, alongside an uprated Alcon braking system featuring four‑piston calipers front and rear, combined with larger 335mm vented front and 300mm rear discs.  

Each conversion features exclusive Works V8 badging and carefully reengineered interior and mechanical enhancements, including a redesigned transmission tunnel and gear selector. The vehicle features 16‑inch steel wheels as standard, while 18‑inch alloy wheels are available as an optional upgrade alongside genuine accessories to personalise the Defender.

Whether a family companion, trusted workhorse or prized collector’s item, every Defender has its own story and each one requires specialised and individual care and attention. The V8 conversion alongside the upgrade packages means there’s something for everyone, whether they’re looking to improve everyday usability or refresh a cherished family Defender.

Dominic Elms, Director, JLR Classic

Further information

Find out more about classic Defender parts and explore the new upgrade offerings here: Classic Defender Upgrade Programme 

Find out more about the Defender Works V8 Conversion programme here: Defender Works V8 Conversion

For more information on the full range of cars, services, parts and experiences offered by Defender’s Classic division visit: www.landrover.com/classic  

For more information about Land Rover Classic Parts, including all upgrades for the classic Defender, visit: www.parts.jaguarlandroverclassic.com 

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@defender   

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Defender/  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/defender/  
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@defender 

Notes to Editors

The upgrade packages are available for Defender L316 90 and 110 models produced between 2007 and 2016 fitted with the Land Rover Puma diesel engine.  

The Defender Works V8 Conversion is available exclusively for 2012 to 2016 Defender L316 90 and 110 models.  

Availability and fitment of all upgrade packages is subject to vehicle age, model, condition, existing specification and market availability. Upgrade packages are only available in selected markets. Vehicle eligibility, final specification, pricing and programme timing will be confirmed following assessment by Defender’s classic specialists or your local retailer. 

 

ABOUT DEFENDER 

Defender embraces the impossible. Each member of the Defender family is purposefully designed, highly desirable and seriously durable. A modern‑day hero that respects the past but at the same time anticipates the future. 

Available in 90, 110 and 130 body styles, with up to eight seats, each has a charisma of its own. 

Defender can be specified from a range of powertrain options, including Defender 110 as an electric hybrid.  

Defender Hard Top means business, with 90 and 110 body styles for professional capability. 

The tough luxury Defender OCTA is the master of extreme performance – taking performance and capability to another level on and off‑road.  

A beacon of liberty that can trace its roots back to the first Land Rover in 1948, Defender is a brand that supports humanitarian and conservation work with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the Tusk Trust.  

The Defender brand is underpinned by Land Rover – a mark of trust built on more than 75 years of expertise in technology and world‑renowned off‑road capability. 

Defender is designed and engineered in the UK and sold in 121 countries. It forms part of JLR's portfolio of distinctive British brands.  

 

ABOUT DEFENDER’S CLASSIC DIVISION 

Classic Works is the official home of authentic cars, expert services, genuine parts and unforgettable experiences for classic Land Rover enthusiasts worldwide. Our team of highly‑skilled engineers at our Classic Works facility in Coventry specialises in outstanding Land Rover and Range Rover restorations, including our Works Bespoke customisation service for Classic Defender V8.  

All enquiries from prospective Land Rover Classic customers should be directed to:   
www.landrover.com/classic 

(UK and RoW) +44 (0) 2476 566 600, sales@classic‑jaguarlandrover.com  

(EU) +49 2054 939 870, classic.germany@jaguarlandrover.com 

 

IMPORTANT NOTICE 

JLR is constantly seeking ways to improve the specification, design and production of its vehicles, parts and accessories and alterations take place continually. Whilst every effort is made to produce up‑to‑date literature, this document should not be regarded as an infallible guide to current specifications or availability, nor does it constitute an offer for the sale of any upgrade programme, particular vehicle, part or accessory.