The iconic Land Rover Defender has returned. And it’s got a dirty big engine.

This is the Land Rover Defender Works V8, and it’s the most powerful and fastest production Defender ever built.

With 298kW and 515Nm being pumped out of a naturally aspirated 5.0-litre bent eight, the Works V8 is capable of 170km/h.

This makes the V8’s claimed 5.6 second sprint to 97km/h all the more impressive.

Even more interesting is the use of Sport Mode in the re-engineered Defenders, complimented by upgraded brakes and a handling kit.

Jaguar Land Rover Classic director Tim Hannig says keeping the Defender badge around for 70 years was a feat worth celebrating, and that’s where the Works V8 comes in.

MORE Original Range Rover reborn

“The idea of reintroducing a V8 Defender was something we were discussing as far back as 2014, when we were still building the Defender in Solihull.

“We knew the demand was there for a powerful and fast Defender; the Land Rover authenticity is the ultimate finishing touch for discerning clients purchasing these collectors’ edition Defenders.”