The new Land Rover Defender is remarkable for many things, from its all-new design and unibody construction to the driver-assist technologies that come as standard. However, one aspect that Land Rover failed to carry over from the previous generation is the soft-top, a hallmark of the model’s off-road credentials.
You won't find this option on any official Land Rover brochure for now
Dutch Land Rover specialist Heritage Customs is keen to take up the slack by introducing renders of its planned Valiance Convertible, a limited-edition build that brings a semi-electric retractable cover on the current Defender. This is based on the Defender hardtop’s Valiance treatment, which the shop previously showed off.
“People can now get in touch with us to acquire their ultra-limited, handmade Defender with its classical soft top, Magic Metal elements, and exquisitely handcrafted bespoke interior,” said Heritage Customs co-owner Niels van Roji.
The Solihull Sands option fits the rugged nature of the Defender
Buyers can choose between three available trim options, with names all inspired by scenic locales. There’s the Côte d’Azur with the bright blue exterior, black bumpers, and Cognac Brown canvas top. Then there’s the light-green Solihull Sand, matched with gray bumpers and copper accents.
The third choice is the Kokkini Peralia, inspired by Greece’s Red Beach, sporting a matte dark red color scheme and 22-inch alloy wheels. All trims feature an interior draped in either leather or Alcantara, with an endless array of options including patterns and colors.
Five examples will be built initially for a very exclusive few
No mention of powertrain options, which presumably means that the Valiance Convertible build should be compatible with any stock Defender 90 engine, from the 2.0-liter D240 twin-turbo diesel engine rated at 238 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque to the 5.0-liter supercharged V8 serving up 518 horsepower and 625 Nm of twist.
Just how limited will this build be? Heritage Customs says that only five examples will materialize from the drawing board for now, with a starting price of $160,000 (over Php 8.03 million) without taxes and shipping fees. Defender owners who prefer a more understated look can avail of the custom 20- and 22-inch alloy wheels separately.
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