What's the news?
To celebrate its 65th anniversary, Land Rover has released a special edition Defender: the LXV. Modifications have been made inside and out, but only 65 examples will be made to befit the occasion it's celebrating.
Exterior
The LXV is based on the Defender 90 Hardtop. The new model comes in Santorini Black, with the roof, grille and other styling details finished in Corris Grey. Bespoke 'Sawtooth' 16-inch alloys have been fitted underneath, while a Union Jack decal can be found on the back.
Interior
The Defender LXV boasts a full leather interior with 'LXV'-embossed front headrests. Contrasting orange stitching is to be found on the seats, steering wheel and centre console. Equipment and optional extras are carried over from the standard Defender range.
Mechanicals
Under the hood is Land Rover's tried and tested 2.2-litre diesel engine, hooked up to a six-speed manual gearbox. Output sits at 122hp and 360Nm of torque - ample to maintain the Defender's legendary off-road capabilities.
Anything else?
The Defender LXV is on sale now; priced at £28,765.
In addition to the LXV, Land Rover is hosting a 130-vehicle strong celebratory event this week at Packington Estate - the off-road proving ground that was used to test the original Defender. On display will be vehicles that mark significant milestones in both vehicular and the company's history, such as the introduction of Electronic Traction Control, Hill Descent Control and Terrain Response.
As well as historic vehicles, Land Rover will also be showcasing its latest technologies in the form of its all-electric Defender; and the world's first nine-speed gearbox for a passenger car.
Finally, a 65th birthday wouldn't be a birthday without a cake; so Land Rover has had one made in the shape of the very first Land Rover. A Lynx helicopter was utilised for the special delivery, flown by a member of the 'Black Cats' Royal Navy display team.
Land Rover's celebratory event will run for the remainder of the week.
James Giddings - 2 May 2013