Land Rover Factory Engine Tune for Old Defenders

Paul Myles

TU-Editor

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31st July 2019

As proof Land Rover has not lost faith with its oldest, most iconic model, the SUV maker has announced factory upgrade kits for old Defenders including an engine power boost.

Sadly, so far at least, only the most comprehensive upgrade option is available on 2.2-liter TDCi models produced from 2012 model year onwards and is only available direct from Land Rover Classic, the automaker’s heritage model arm. Its Defender Classic Works Upgrade Kit includes new performance-rated tires and an engine upgrade which delivers an extra 38bhp to produce an output of 159bhp plus 341ft-lbs of torque and a top speed is increased to 106mph. CO2 emissions meet the same EU5 N1 Commercial standards as a standard 2.2 TDCi, with emissions control systems retained.

Upgrades with the rest of the kit available to all Defender 90 and 110 models built between 1994 and 2016 were inspired by the Defender Works V8 and include uprated Works V8 specification brake discs, pads and calipers to the 18-inch Sawtooth alloy wheels which can be fitted to Defenders built from 1994 model year onwards. The suspension upgrades are suitable from 2007 model year vehicles, comprising tuned suspension tailored for on-road comfort and dynamics with revised coil spring rates, dampers, anti-roll bars, links and bushes.

The Classic Works Upgrade Kit also includes bespoke badging on the front wings, an owner’s certificate, vehicle collection, health check and handover with a tour of Land Rover’s Classic Works, UK, or Essen, Germany, facility, where the upgrade is carried-out. Prices start from $525 for the basic wheel upgrade to $20,677 for the full performance package.

Calum McKechnie, Head of Land Rover Classic, said: “In 2018, Land Rover’s 70th Anniversary year, we saw unprecedented demand for the limited-edition Defender Works V8, which brought new levels of handling and performance to this iconic vehicle. Extending the range of fully engineered, tested and approved upgrades offered by Land Rover Classic underlines our commitment to supporting existing Defender owners, as we look forward to the new Defender’s world premiere later this year.”

— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in London. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_