Iconic Land Rover Defender Gets XTech Special Edition

SCARBOROUGH, MAINE (07/23/2012)(readMedia)-- Before the Land Rover LR4, Range Rover Sport and Range Rover Evoque were a twinkle in their designers' eyes, there was the Land Rover Defender. First released in 1983, the Defender has roots going back to the very first Land Rovers of the 1940s, but a newly announced XTech Special Edition gives the old-school off-roader some 21st century touches.

Available with either an Orkney Grey or unique Nara Bronze exterior, the Land Rover Defender XTech Special Edition contrasts those colors with black on the roof, wheel arches, headlight surrounds and rims. Inside the SUV, Ebony and Almond trim with Nutmeg stitching creates a more sophisticated feel. Like other 2012 Defender models, the XTech Special Edition houses a new fuel-efficient 2.2-liter diesel engine that produces 122 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque, bringing the vehicle's top speed to 90 mph.

"Few vehicles have stood the test of time like the Land Rover Defender," said Mike Avery, general manager of Land Rover Scarborough, a Maine Range Rover dealer. "The tough off-roader set the foundation for future Land Rover vehicles, which added more luxury amenities but retained the Defender's capability. The XTech Special Edition gets a touch more luxury, but it is still a hardcore ride at heart."

Unfortunately for American SUV fans, there are no current plans to bring the Defender XTech Special Edition stateside, but those looking for a pure off-road experience can still rely on Land Rover for their fix. The automaker recently announced the return of its Land Rover Adventures driving program, which pairs both novice and experienced off-roaders with dedicated instructors as they tackle rugged terrain in the 2012 Land Rover LR4, Range Rover and Range Rover Sport.

Two Land Rover Adventures excursions are currently planned, including a Four-Day Adventure in Utah's Moab Desert and an Eight-Day Adventure that starts in Moab and ends in Telluride, Colo. Following an itinerary that matches Land Rover's rugged yet refined rides, participants will navigate the breathtaking scenery during the day while enjoying resort accommodations and fine dining at night.

Land Rover's Four-Day Adventure runs from Aug. 24 to Aug. 27, costing $3,250 per person or $4,500 per couple. The luxurious Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa will provide the accommodations and dining. Meanwhile, the Eight-Day Adventure takes place from Aug. 27 through Sept. 3, with prices set at $9,000 per person or $13,000 per couple. That trip will also make use of the Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa before moving on to the renowned Lumiere hotel in Telluride Mountain Village. Eight-day adventurers will even receive VIP tickets to Telluride Film Festival events, including an advanced Director's Review screening and a Mid Festival Gathering at a private residence.

"Perhaps the greatest attribute of Land Rover vehicles is their ability to tackle harsh climates in total comfort," added Avery. "The Land Rover Adventures program gives off-roading fans the ability to access beautiful remote locations during the day while enjoying the finer things each night, creating a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience."

About Land Rover Scarborough:

Land Rover Scarborough is proud to be part of the Goodwin Motor Group that has served Maine and New Hampshire residents for over 80 years. Home to a wide selection of capable Land Rover and Range Rovers models and an expert service team, Land Rover Scarborough's knowledgeable staff is dedicated to building lasting relationships with their customers, Search Land Rover Scarborough's online inventory of new and used Rover vehicles at www.landroverme.com, call them at 207-883-0161, stop by their dealership located at 371 U.S. Route 1 or find them on Facebook.