A commercial version of the new Land Rover Defender is set to arrive later this year, with JLR resurrecting the Hard Top name first used in 1950. While full specifications are yet to be released, the new Defender Hard Top will come in a three-door, short wheelbase 90 version, or the five-door long wheelbase 110.
In what JLR calls “Land Rover’s most capable and durable commercial vehicle ever”, the Hard Top is being developed by Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations division to “deliver unrivalled durability, practicality and toughness.” Both 90 and 110 variants will ride on independent coil-sprung suspension, with the option of fitting electronic air suspension to the 110. An optional three-person jump seat is available on both variants, while the second and third row of seats found in the regular Defender have been removed to make room for cargo.
The Hard Top name was born in 1950, two years after the original Defender arrived, and added a removeable hard roof to the go-anywhere utility wagon. The new Defender Hard Top aims to blend the same off-road capabilities with the modern comforts of the new Defender SUV, including Land Rover’s ClearSight Rear View mirror system and smartphone integration via the Pivi Pro touchscreen infotainment system.
Both the 90 and 110 variants are building site-friendly thanks to a 291mm ground clearance, while the 110 Hard Top will have approach, breakover and departure angles of up to 38, 28 and 40 degrees respectively. Both models will have a tow capacity of 3,500kg and come with Land Rover’s Advanced Tow Assist system.
Nick Collins, Land Rover Vehicle LineDirector, said:“New Defender 90 and 110 Hard Top will be the toughest, most capable and most connected commercial 4x4s we have ever produced. They have been engineered to meet global safety standards and deliver impressive long-haul comfort, giving businesses and professionals the best of all worlds.”
The Defender Hard Top will feature the same driver assistance tech as the regular version, including a 3D surround camera over-the-air software updates. Full details on the Defender Hard Top will be revealed later in the year when the order books open, with prices starting at £35,000 plus VAT.
Keyword: Land Rover Defender Hard Top new for 2020