The Defender 110 Trophy Edition, now available in South Africa, represents an opportunity for brand enthusiasts to own a piece of automotive history that is as capable as it is collectible.
The Defender Trophy Edition is a celebration of the brand’s return to international adventure challenge events. It offers a meticulously curated range of expedition accessories that transform the already formidable Defender into the perfect companion for the most challenging journeys imaginable.
Whether navigating a remote farm boundary or embarking on a cross-continental expedition, this edition is designed to thrive where the pavement ends.
Colours of the earth
The new model introduces two heritage-inspired colours designed to ignite the spirit of adventure. Deep Sandglow Yellow is a modern interpretation of a colour synonymous with the vehicles used in legendary international Defender Trophy-style events of decades past.
For those who prefer a connection to the vehicle’s roots in rural exploration, Keswick Green offers a timeless alternative. Celebrating the rolling hills and rugged landscapes of the Defender’s UK homeland, this shade feels right at home in the South African bushveld.
Both colourways feature a striking contrasting gloss-black finish on the bonnet, lower body side, brake callipers, and rear recovery eyes.
To ensure the vehicle remains pristine even when the terrain is anything but, an optional matte protective film is available. This provides an added layer of protection against ‘bush rash’ and stone chips, offering peace of mind when venturing off the beaten track.
Purpose-built for the wild
The adventure-ready specification is further enhanced by 20” gloss-black alloy wheels and rugged all-terrain tyres. These provide the essential grip required for South Africa’s varying terrain, from loose sand to slick clay.
The exterior is distinguished by Defender Trophy decals on the bonnet and C-pillar, along with unique rear badging. Inside, the cabin offers a blend of toughness and luxury. Ebony Windsor leather seats provide comfort on long days, while the exposed cross car beam – finished in the same distinctive colour as the exterior – features unique laser-etched end caps with Defender Trophy branding.
For the ultimate off-road capability, the Trophy Edition comes standard with a selection of accessories that include a dark rear scuff plate, gloss-black wheel arch protection, and a black front undershield.
Also included is an expedition roof rack, providing additional space for gear-laden journeys, while a black deployable roof ladder makes it easier to access objects stored overhead. A gloss-black side-mounted gear carrier provides extra space for wet, muddy, or sandy items, and front and rear classic mud flaps and a raised air intake for dust filtration are also included.
The ultimate test: a competition like no other
The Defender Trophy Edition was inspired by the gruelling Trophy and Challenge events of the past, and that same DNA has been used to forge a new breed of competition. This isn’t just about driving; it’s a unique test of wit, willpower, and teamwork.
Participants in the Defender Trophy competition face a battery of obstacles designed to push them to their physical and mental limits. In this arena, ‘embracing the impossible’ isn’t a slogan; it’s a prerequisite for survival.
South Africa’s champions revealed
Following an intense national selection process that pushed participants to breaking point, South Africa’s representatives for the 2026 Defender Trophy global final have been named: Isabel Roux and Lance Kime.
Their road to the final began in 2025, when they were selected from more than 600 adventure-seekers eager to prove their mettle in the Defender Trophy challenge. The first round saw 48 contestants take part in a series of physical and mental challenges, including precision driving, log bridge construction, navigation, and team events.
The field was then narrowed to the top 12 for the national finals, where Roux and Kime secured their places in the global final.
Adventure with a greater purpose
The global final will be hosted on African soil later this year. In a move that reinforces Defender’s commitment to the land it explores, the event will be held in partnership with Tusk, a leading conservation organisation.
This partnership will ensure the competition remains rooted in both adventure and purpose. Contestants won’t just be racing against the clock; they’ll be engaging with the people and places that make Africa unique.
Roux and Kime are now preparing to face off against the top teams from around the world. They’ll be using the very same expedition-ready Defender 110 Trophy Editions from the national competition to navigate the final’s challenges, proving that the vehicle is as much a part of the team as the drivers themselves.
Gear up for the journey
For Defender fans and those following the Defender Trophy competition, the Defender Trophy Collection offers a way to join the excitement. The official branded merchandise has been designed with the same attention to durability and style as the vehicle itself.
The collection includes waterproof technical jackets, hybrid gilets, long- and short-sleeved T-shirts, snoods, beanies, and caps.
Explore the full collection at shop.landrover.com/defender/the-defender-collection.
Defender Trophy edition at Nampo 2026
Priced from R2 136 600, the Defender 110 Trophy Edition will be a highlight of the upcoming Nampo 2026 show, where farmers and adventurers alike can experience its presence and capability first-hand.
