Land Rover Defender Works V8 Trophy unleashed

With sales of the all-new Land Rover Defender in full swing, the British SUV specialist has announced a limited-run Land Rover Defender Works V8 Trophy that's inspired by the famous off-road race.

Based on the previous-generation version of the iconic 4x4, the new Camel Trophy-inspired run of Defenders will cost an incredible £195,000 ($A395,000) for the Defender 90 short-wheelbase version and more for the longer Defender 110.

Just 25 vehicles will be produced.

The limited-edition is based on the remanufactured Land Rover Defender Works V8 that was introduced back in 2018, and it's inspired by the 1989-winning Camel Trophy 4x4.

Thankfully, it misses out on the original's anaemic 2.5-litre turbo-diesel.

In its place, there's Jaguar Land Rover's 5.0-litre V8 that pumps out a punchy 297kW and 515Nm of torque.

Matched with a modern eight-speed automatic transmission that features high- and low-ratio gearing, the latest Defender Works V8 Trophy runs permanent all-wheel drive.

Naturally, the remade Trophy also gets uprated suspension that includes new anti-roll bars, while the old Landie's brakes are junked for new four-piston callipers that clamp down on larger discs.

Heavy-duty 16-inch steel wheels that get grippy mud-terrain tyres complete the updates.

For an extra cost, buyers also get the option of a front winch, heavy-duty roof rack, snorkel intake and bright LED spot lights.

Under-body armour and an external rollcage are also on offer for hard-core off-roaders.

Finished in the similar yellow Camel paint, the extended wheel-arches, bonnet and rear doors are painted black. As standard there's LED headlights and heritage Land Rover Trophy badging.

Inside, there's yet more decals, a Trophy clock, a new infotainment system and a pair of black leather Recaro seats that get yellow stitching.

The select group of buyers will be offered free expert tuition at Land Rover's Eastnor Castle test track, where both the original Defender and the latest incarnation were developed.