The popularity of the Hummer H1, the Lamborghini LM002, the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen, and the Land Rover Defender makes plain that there’s an appetite for land-dominating and truck-like SUVs.
Enter Twisted, a UK-based company that makes a job of re-engineering the iconic Land Rover Defender. And it’s entering the North American market with a bang — meet the Twisted NA-V8.
The NA-V8 is Twisted’s flagship model, according to an emailed press release. It comes standard with the 6.2-liter LT1 V8 engine that’s found in the Chevrolet Corvette, good for a claimed 455 horsepower. Transmission options include either an eight-speed automatic or a five-speed manual.
However, if 455 isn’t enough, there’s also a high-performance option that’s fitted with the supercharged, 6.2-liter LT4 V8 that’s found in the C7 generation Corvette Z06. That engine produces a claimed 650 horsepower.
The company also expects to launch an all-electric version later this year.
Twisted says the NA-V8 starts at $250,000. The company needs about six months’ lead time for each custom build and order.
It’s no secret that the rugged, luxury, off-road market here is saturated. Already, there are companies like Icon and Himalaya that also offer customizable Land Rover Defenders. But Twisted believes that through personalization, a V8, and multiple body styles, it can set itself apart.
Keep scrolling to see the Twisted NA-V8.