Land Rover Defender convertible in the works

Dutch coachbuilder Heritage Customs has started work on its latest epic project involving the Land Rover Defender – chopping the roof to produce a convertible version of the British brand’s reborn off-roader.

Fresh from its Moon Dust Vintage V8 restomod based on a previous-generation (circa-1985) short-wheelbase Defender, Heritage Customs has now turned to the all-new 2022 Land Rover Defender 90 to produce what it describes as “the ultimate coach-built two-door five-seat SUV convertible”.

Just five vehicles will be built this year – most of which are already spoken for – and the first example of the open-air Shortie is underway.

Dubbed the Valiance Convertible, each Defender will be heavily customised to suit buyers’ personal tastes, with bespoke options covering paint and other exterior treatments, while cabin materials and finishes can also be tailored “in almost infinite ways”. 

The convertible roof is described as having a “semi-electric” operation, while Heritage Customs also says the vehicle will feature ‘Magic Metal’ interior and exterior packs, custom forged wheels and handcrafted logos on the bodywork.

Of course, buyers will pay for the privilege of exclusivity, with most convertibles costing more than double the new price of a Defender 90, which in Australia starts at $80,540 plus on-road costs and extends all the way to $215,480 plus ORCs for the V8.

Owners purchase their vehicle and then leave Heritage Customs to do the rest. The conversion alone costs €70,000 ($A102,000), with the completed Valiance Convertible (before options) starting at €84,700 ($A123,400).

The final price will naturally depend on the level of customisation required.

Heritage Customs co-owner Jan-Pieter Kroezen described the Defender 90 convertible as “the ultimate expression of our customers”.

“Based on the sketches, a number of our very loyal customers have immediately decided to purchase their coach-built Valiance,” he said.

“These customers have tailored their ultra-limited, handcrafted Defender with the power-operated soft-top, Magic Metal elements and a beautifully handcrafted interior exactly to their wishes.

“Every element of Valiance Convertible has been carefully and meticulously designed with love for detail. From the use of 3D etched inlays and unique patterns for the stitching and ventilation openings in the leather seats, to our in-house designed sports seats with hand-embroidered quilting.

“Owners will find details and parts in their Valiance Convertible that have never been seen on a Defender before.”

In case you were wondering, the factory-approved fabric roof option offered by Land Rover Australia on the Defender 90 costs $4810.

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