Ripping through the trails with a vibe that’s pure retro heat, the 2025 Land Rover Classic Defender V8 Soft Top is here to make every adventure a total flex! Launched on April 24, 2025, this iconic off-roader rocks a 5.0L V8 with 405 hp, a convertible soft top, and a price tag of £234,000 (₹2.06 crore, ex-showroom). It’s the kind of ride that mixes old-school Defender charm with modern luxe upgrades, perfect for young adventurers who want to flex off-road in style. With near-limitless customization, upgraded suspension, and a hand-built frame, the Defender V8 Soft Top is built to dominate rugged trails and city streets in 2025. Ready to roll with an SUV that’s as lit as your wildest dreams? Let’s break down why the Land Rover Classic Defender V8 Soft Top is the ultimate retro pick for the youth crew.
Retro Shape That Screams Adventure
The Defender V8 Soft Top pulls up looking like a time machine on steroids, rocking a design that’s straight-up legendary. Built from 2012–2016 Defender 90 donor vehicles, it keeps the classic boxy silhouette with a rugged twist—think short-wheelbase 90 chassis, a bespoke canvas hood, and tie-downs inspired by the North American Spec 90 from the ‘90s. The soft top comes in four colors (Black, Sand, Dark Khaki, Navy), with a bikini hood option for extra protection, making it a convertible king for sunny trails. New 16-inch Wolf wheels or sportier 18-inch Sawtooth alloys add a bold stance, while custom paint options let you match it to your vibe—whether you’re into stealth mode or loud adventure flex. At 3895mm long with a 2032mm wheelbase, it’s compact but fierce. Land Rover’s use of recycled donor vehicles and local Solihull production keeps the eco-footprint tight a retro beast that’s green at heart.
V8 Power That Roars Loud
Twist the key, and the Defender V8 Soft Top’s 5.0L petrol V8 comes alive with a rumble that’ll get your adrenaline pumping. Pushing out 405 hp and 515 Nm of torque, this beast pairs with an 8-speed ZF automatic and four-wheel drive to hit 0–60 mph in 5.6 seconds and a top speed of 106 mph (claimed). It’s a far cry from the old 2.2L diesel Defenders that took 15 seconds to hit 60 mph—this thing’s a rocket for its class! The V8’s raw power makes trails a playground, though real-world fuel efficiency might hover around 8–10 kmpl, stretching the 85L tank (based on similar models) to 680–850 km. Local production in Solihull cuts shipping emissions, but the V8’s thirst means you’re trading green points for power—a retro monster that’s all about the thrill for young off-roaders.
Handling That Tames Wild Trails
The Defender V8 Soft Top handles like a champ, making every rocky path feel like a victory lap. Built on a comprehensively rebuilt chassis, it’s paired with upgraded Eibach coil springs, anti-roll bars, and Bilstein dampers that soak up bumps while keeping you steady. Big Alcon brakes (335mm front, 300mm rear) with four-piston calipers stop you on a dime, and the P38 Range Rover power steering system makes turns smoother than ever—though the recirculating ball steering still has that old-school charm. At 1800 kg (based on similar models), it’s lighter than modern Defenders, and the 2032mm wheelbase makes it nimble on tight trails. The 230mm ground clearance lets you crawl over rocks without a sweat, though the soft top might not love monsoon rains—better for dry adventures. This SUV’s built to let you tame the wild with a sporty edge.
Tech That Blends Old And New
The Defender V8 Soft Top isn’t just a throwback—it’s got tech that keeps you vibin on the go. The luxurious interior rocks premium leather with contrast stitching, a modernized center console, and a digital driver’s display (on higher specs) showing speed and off-road stats—perfect for tracking your trail game. An 8-inch touchscreen (optional) with Bluetooth keeps you connected, while upgraded sound insulation cuts wind noise for a quieter ride. Safety gets a nod with ABS, traction control, and optional roll bars for that open-air vibe—a must for off-road chaos. You can even spec a wine cooler or surfboard rack through Land Rover’s Works Bespoke service, blending retro soul with modern flex. This tech package is all about keeping your adventures plush and connected, perfect for the luxe youth crew.
Eco-Vibes For Retro Riders
The Defender V8 Soft Top 2025 isn’t the greenest ride, but it’s got some eco-cred to keep your adventures sustainable. Using 2012–2016 donor vehicles means recycling older frames, cutting down on new production waste—a big deal when you’re cruising through nature. Local hand-building in Solihull slashes shipping emissions, and sustainable materials like the canvas hood reduce environmental impact. The 8–10 kmpl mileage isn’t great, but the V8’s efficiency is better than older models, and you’re saving ₹10,000–₹15,000 yearly on maintenance compared to a new V8 SUV thanks to its durable build. At ₹20–₹25 per km running cost, it’s a luxe trade-off, but the recycled base and local production keep your eco-cred in check—a retro ride that’s got a green twist.
Price That Packs A Punch
Starting at £234,000 (₹2.06 crore, ex-showroom, converted at ₹88/£), the Defender V8 Soft Top is a luxe investment, hitting on-road prices in India around ₹2.4–2.5 crore after import duties and taxes. A down payment of ₹24 lakh gets you rolling, with EMIs starting at ₹4.5 lakh/month—a flex for high rollers. Compared to the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen (₹2.55 crore) or Jeep Wrangler Rubicon (₹71.65 lakh), the Defender’s price is steep, but its bespoke build and V8 power make it a unique beast, though the Wrangler offers better value for off-roaders. Initially available only in the UK and Germany through Land Rover Classic outlets, import to India might take a few months—check with JLR India for availability. With custom options like Liberty Blue paint or a Perlino DuoTone interior, there’s a vibe for every crew—whether you’re into bold or sleek.
Rivals That Can’t Match The Vibe
The Defender V8 Soft Top 2025 owns the retro luxe off-road scene:
Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen (₹2.55 crore): 15 kmpl, iconic but pricier.
Jeep Wrangler Rubicon (₹71.65 lakh): 12 kmpl, rugged but less luxe.
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (₹1 crore, expected): 10 kmpl, tough but less custom.
The Defender’s 405 hp V8 and near-limitless customization outshine the G-Wagen and Prado, while its ₹2.06 crore base price (before taxes) crushes the Wrangler for retro flex. It’s the luxe off-road champ for young riders who want to stand out, as posts on X also hype its “new-old” comeback as a trailblazer.
Hiccups On The Retro Trail
The Defender V8 Soft Top 2025 isn’t flawless—there are a few speed bumps to watch for. The £234,000 (₹2.06 crore) price is steep for a resto-mod, especially when a new Defender Octa starts at £145,000—custom options like wine coolers can push it even higher. The 8–10 kmpl mileage means frequent fuel stops, a drag for long hauls, and the 85L tank gives a 680–850 km range at best. Online chatter flags the soft top’s durability in heavy rain better for dry climates than monsoon trails. The 2032mm wheelbase makes it nimble but cramped for taller passengers, and the lack of a long-wheelbase option might bum out bigger crews. For a ride this fire, these are just small potholes on the road to retro glory.
Who’s It Built For
This SUV’s for the trailblazers off-road enthusiasts who need a V8 beast to flex on rugged paths, luxe seekers craving bespoke options like a wine cooler, and retro lovers who live for the Defender’s iconic vibe. The 230mm ground clearance suits hardcore trails, and the 8-speed auto makes city drives a breeze. It’s not for budget riders or daily commuters, but if you’re a Gen Z or millennial crew chasing style, power, and a greener resto-mod vibe, the Defender V8 Soft Top 2025 is your go-to ride.
Where To Snag This Icon
Land Rover Classic outlets in the UK and Germany have the Defender V8 Soft Top in stock since its April 24, 2025 launch, with deliveries starting immediately. Indian buyers can inquire through JLR India for imports, though expect a 2–3-month wait due to customs—early booking’s the move. Festive deals through Diwali 2025 might add perks like free accessories check with JLR for Sand hood or 18-inch Sawtooth wheel availability and test drives.
Defender V8: Retro King Crowned
The 2025 Land Rover Classic Defender V8 Soft Top is the off-roader every young rider needs—a 5.0L V8 icon with 405 hp, ₹2.06 crore price, and a retro vibe that’s untouchable. With its bespoke design, eco-friendly resto-mod roots, and trail-ready performance, it’s a total flex, though the price and mileage might slow your roll. This isn’t just an SUV—it’s a lifestyle for the youth who live for adventure. The Defender V8 Soft Top is here to rule the trails your trails in 2025.
Disclaimer: Specs and prices are based on 2025 reports. Verify with Land Rover dealers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s new in the 2025 Defender V8
The 2025 Defender V8 Soft Top rocks a 5.0L V8 with 405 hp, a bespoke canvas hood, upgraded suspension, Alcon brakes, and near-limitless customization like surfboard racks.
How does it perform off-road
Its 405 hp V8, 230mm ground clearance, and AWD with Terrain Response make trails a breeze, hitting 0–60 mph in 5.6 seconds perfect for rugged adventures.
What’s the price range in 2025
Ex-showroom at ₹2.06 crore (£234,000); on-road in India around ₹2.4–2.5 crore, with a ₹24 lakh down payment and EMIs starting at ₹4.5 lakh/month.
How eco-friendly is this SUV
Using recycled 2012–2016 donors and local Soli hull production cuts waste, though the 8–10 kmpl V8 mileage means a bigger carbon footprint—balanced by sustainable materials.
Is it ideal for luxe adventurers
Yes, its bespoke options like wine coolers, premium leather, and 18-inch Sawtooth wheels make it a luxe pick for off-roaders who want to flex in style.
What customization options are available
Choose from four hood colors, two hood styles, 16-inch Wolf or 18-inch Sawtooth wheels, custom paint, and extras like surfboard racks or expedition cages.
Does it beat the Jeep Wrangler
Defender’s 405 hp V8 and luxe interior outshine Wrangler’s 12 kmpl and ₹71.65 lakh price, though Wrangler offers better value for budget off-roaders.
Where can I book this SUV
Land Rover Classic outlets in the UK and Germany, with imports to India via JLR India—deliveries started April 24, 2025 in Europe.
