Words: Andrew Sluys
Published 9 July 2026
Land Rover New Zealand has confirmed orders will open for a new variant of the Defender, in the form of the Vertex.
Offered across the Defender range, this Vertex edition is predominantly a design update that supposedly “takes tough luxury to new heights.”
It wears extended bumpers at the front and rear, as well as a bigger front grille with revised fog lights.
Contrasting the usual dark body cladding at the bottom of the Defender, the Vertex keeps the same colour across its body. The Roof is finished in black to contrast.
It also gets yellow brake calipers and 22-inch wheels are standard. Those looking for more cushioning can opt for 20-inch wheels.
Fuji White, Santorini Black, Woolstone Green, Borasco Grey and Carpathian Grey, as well as the Patagonia White Matte Wrap are all the colour options available on this edition.
On the inside, Windsor Leather and Forged textile seats – available in either Ebony or Caraway/Ebony are also options.
Aside from the Defender Vertex, there are other changes across the range including a six-seat option in the 110 which adds second-row captains chairs.
The all conquering Defender Octa is now available in the Woolstone Green hue popular across the rest of the range.
Inspired by the African deserts, Namib Orange is also now an option for those wanting a more “out-there” Defender.
Land Rover has also introduced a bunch of new accessories including an Expedition Roof Light, Tail Door Gear Carrier and roof mounted spoiler options.
There’s also an Adventure Pack which adds an integrated air compressor, portable rinse system, and exterior mounted side gear carrier.
And then there’s an Urban Pack, which doesn’t add anything functional, but the decals make the bonnet look a little cooler.
Lastly Land Rover has added a new connected speech function to the Defender, which uses “AI-driven conversational intelligence”.
