Kahn Design has announced the release of a new coach-built Land Rover Defender dubbed the Flying Huntsman 105 Longnose. The new Defender has an extra 400 mm of bodywork inserted into the elongated nose cone just ahead of the windscreen, hence the 105 designation, referring to the longer wheelbase.
The 6.2-liter V8 engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic gearbox operated by push-button controls. An upgraded braking and suspension system completes the engineering overhaul. With an estimated 400-450 horsepower the explosive performance of the 105 Longnose Defender is a far cry from the stolid pulling power of the original. Built to tame even the hardiest terrain, this modern British icon is equally comfortable outrunning any road raging 4×4.
The exterior is augmented with a square-sectioned, wide arch body kit fitted precisely with Kahn Design’s usual standards of craftsmanship. True to the Defender’s British heritage, the 105 Longnose will be produced entirely in the UK. Pricing has yet to be set but is expected to be in the region of £125,000 plus VAT. The 105 Longnose will be formally unveiled at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show.
“The Defender is probably the most iconic and well-loved British vehicle in existence I believe, even more so than the Mini,” stated Afzal Kahn, CEO and Creative Director of the Kahn Group. “The fact that Land Rover is retiring it is an absolute tragedy since it’s one of my top three all-time favorite vehicles.”
The Flying Huntsman marque signifies extreme power coupled with all-terrain performance. The 105 Longnose is the first from an upcoming line of related retro, classic models, each of which will be based on the Land Rover Defender. Future models include a 4-door, a 6×6 model and the B4 and B6 armored variants. In addition, several alternate engine options will also be released.
