Land Rover’s Classic division has launched a new upgrade programme for the old Defender, and at the top of it sits something V8 fans have wanted for years: an official Defender Works V8 Conversion. Announced on September 23 from Coventry, it puts a 405hp 5.0 litre V8 into eligible Defender 90 and 110 models built between 2012 and 2016.
What the V8 conversion includes
The conversion pairs Land Rover’s naturally aspirated 5.0 litre petrol V8, rated at 405hp and 515Nm of torque, with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission. It is available only for 2012 to 2016 Defender L316 90 and 110 models.
The chassis gets as much attention as the engine. Each conversion comes with a new chassis, Bilstein dampers, Eibach coil springs, anti-roll bars, links and bushes. Braking is uprated to Alcon four-piston calipers front and rear, with larger 335mm vented front discs and 300mm rear discs.
Inside, each car carries exclusive Works V8 badging and a reengineered interior and mechanical package, including a redesigned transmission tunnel and gear selector. Sixteen-inch steel wheels are standard, with 18-inch alloys as an option alongside genuine accessories.
Upgrades for other Defenders
The wider programme covers Defender 90 and 110 models built from 2007 to 2016 that have the Puma diesel engine. Cosmetic upgrades include 16-inch steel and 18-inch alloy wheels in diamond-turned and painted finishes. A dynamic package adds the Alcon brakes and the Bilstein and Eibach suspension parts.
Owners can buy the cosmetic and dynamic packages from the Land Rover Classic Parts website for self-fitting, or order them through a local authorised retailer. Specialist technicians at the Classic Works facilities in the UK and Germany can also fit them.
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
Availability
The release gives no prices or dates. JLR says upgrade packages are only available in selected markets, and that eligibility, final specification, pricing and timing are confirmed after an assessment by Classic specialists or a local retailer. Details are at landrover.com/classic.
Source: JLR Classic press release, September 23, 2026. Image courtesy of JLR / Land Rover Classic.
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