Two aftermarket specialists come together to create an unparalleled Defender.
Defender is one of the most revered names in the world of off-road racing, and the latest generation of Defender has blossomed into a brand in its own right. With multiple variants available, including the performance-focused OCTA that serves as the basis for the upcoming Dakar Rally contender Defender, the Defender name is bigger than ever and stands at the forefront of an incredibly celebrated legacy. But Urban Automotive and Heritage Customs, two companies both known for their Defender customizations, have taken the off-road legend to a new level.
Both customization companies have teamed up to create a new bodybuilding masterpiece: the world’s first body-on-frame pickup version of the new Defender. The conversions are based on the Defender 130 and are powered by a V8 engine with 425 hp.
The Heritage Customs version of the body-built Defender pickup truck features a classic, elegant configuration that evokes the timeless appeal of historic Defender and Land Rover aesthetics. The Urban Automotive version of the pickup, on the other hand, is characterized by a more angular, dark style in the configuration.
After design renderings of the new Defender pickup were revealed, it was announced that the Caochbuilt off-roader’s UK premiere will take place in July 2026, at next year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed. With the artful transformation from an SUV to a high-performance pickup, the Defender legend grows even bigger thanks to the customization expertise of Urban Automotive and Heritage Customs.
Image source: Urban Automotive
