Land Rover’s Heritage Customs Creates Pickup Version of Defender
Land Rover offers three versions of the new Defender, known as 90, 110, and 130 respectively. However, the range does not include a pickup variant. Heritage Customs, a Dutch coachbuilder, has stepped in to fill this gap by creating a pickup version of the longest modern Defender.
### Major Modifications
Heritage Customs is no stranger to making major modifications to the current-generation Defender. Previously, the coachbuilder created a convertible Defender 90 with a power-folding soft top. The pickup version based on the Defender 130 features a usable bed, a sport bar, and a side-hinged tailgate with prominent “HERITAGE” lettering.
### Customization Options
Buyers have the option to fully customize their truck, choosing everything from the paint color and upholstery to the interior trim. Various exterior decal packs are available, along with new wheel designs ranging from 20 to 22 inches in diameter. Additionally, an extensive catalog of off-roading accessories such as LED light bars, roof racks, and side steps are offered for further customization.
### Mechanical Specifications
Heritage Customs does not make mechanical modifications to the Defender during the transformation process. Each build starts with the X Dynamic SE trim level, available in Europe with either a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged diesel straight-six engine producing 350 horsepower or a 5.0-liter V8 supercharged engine that generates 425 horsepower. All models come standard with all-wheel drive.
### Pricing and Production
Pricing for the Heritage Customs Defender pickup starts at €155,000 excluding tax, roughly equivalent to $166,000. Buyers are required to provide a deposit of €15,000 (approximately $16,000) to secure a build slot. Production takes approximately three months as all work is done by hand.
### Historical Context
While the idea of a Defender pickup is not new, with the original Defender being offered as a truck for many years, a factory-built pickup version of the new Defender has yet to materialize. Rumors of a pickup body style in the new Defender lineup have circulated, but as of now, Heritage Customs provides the only option for those seeking a Defender pickup.
In conclusion, Heritage Customs has filled a void in the market by creating a unique and customizable pickup version of the Land Rover Defender. With its attention to detail, customization options, and historical nod to the original Defender pickup, the Heritage Customs Defender offers a blend of modern style and classic inspiration for off-road enthusiasts and luxury vehicle enthusiasts alike.