A limited-edition Australian-only Defender launches in Byron

In a sign of the Defender’s enduring reputation for high performance and intrepid adventures, as well as its resonance with a keen cohort of local enthusiasts, an incredibly rare incarnation has now been launched for the Australian market.

Decked in a matte petrol, navy blue shade, this special Defender was the star attraction at a launch event that best encapsulated its capabilities as a car tailor-made for off-roading adventures while also showcasing considered innovation and design. The sand, surf and sea of Byron Bay proved to be the perfect location to give VIP guests a sneak peek at the Defender Pacific Blue Edition, with only 15 to be made available exclusively in Australia. The climate-resistant finish made to withstand the elements is realised in a shade recalling the deep blue of the ocean, a tribute to the unique surfing lifestyle Australians desire.

Decked in a matte petrol, navy blue shade, this special Defender was the star attraction at a launch event that best encapsulated its capabilities as a car tailor-made for off-roading adventures while also showcasing considered innovation and design.

The contrasting crisp white rooftop, grills, door handles and steel wheels recall the crowning crest of a wave, as well as the streamlined cut and curve of a surfboard. This badged one-of-15 model even includes a custom Defender-inspired surfboard to really complete the coastal vision, best viewed through the sliding glass roof.

The exclusive retreat at Soma Byron Bay included signature wellness sessions that come par for the course in the region: sound bathing, Pilates and yoga sessions and seasonal meals by Paperbark, Three Blue Ducks and Rustic Rishi that celebrated local produce, but the primary focus was on drives in a comprehensive fleet of Defenders through sandy dunes and hinterland terrain.

The contrasting crisp white rooftop, grills, door handles and steel wheels recall the crowning crest of a wave, as well as the streamlined cut and curve of a surfboard.

These off-road adventures demonstrated the intuitive capabilities of this D250 Ingenium twin-turbo six-cylinder diesel engine-powered vehicle, which is equally at home cruising water-edged sandbanks, parkland inclines and descents and dirt tracks. Electronic air suspension, adaptive dynamics and headlamp levelling make all terrain easily conquered, concealed in the rugged yet slick comfort the Defender has always stood for.

The Defender Pacific Blue Edition is priced from $129,976, plus on-road costs, and is available to order now through Defender retailers, with deliveries set to start from May 2024.