Description
2015 Land Rover Defender 110 XS Utility – BMW N57 Engine + ZF 8-Speed Auto (Feb 2025 Completed) | Full Touring Restomod
This is a truly unique and professionally built Land Rover Defender 110 XS Utility Wagon — fully re-engineered for long-distance comfort, performance, and modern drivability. Built on a 2015 chassis (105, 000 miles), this Defender has undergone a high-spec transformation In Feb 2025, now powered by a BMW N57 3. 0L turbo diesel engine and ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox. It's the perfect blend of classic Defender character with modern German engineering, built to an incredibly high standard.
The engine was sourced from a 2016 (66 plate) BMW 330D with just 38, 000 miles and has been fully integrated with bespoke mounts, custom ECU mapping, and proper CAN-bus wiring — making this a truly refined and usable Defender for modern roads and long-haul touring.
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Powertrain & Mechanical
• BMW N57 3. 0L single-turbo diesel engine (approx. 38, 000 miles – donor: 66 plate 330D)
• ZF 8HP 8-speed automatic gearbox, custom programmed
• Bespoke billet adaptor and shaft from ZF to LT230 transfer box
• Air shifter kit for Hi/ Lo and diff lock (button-controlled, no manual lever)
• Custom engine and gearbox mounts to suit Defender chassis
• Custom ECU integration and standalone BMW engine management
• Full custom wiring harness for seamless functionality
• Allisport intercooler and radiator pack (bespoke)
• 3” stainless steel exhaust system (complete front, mid, and rear)
• Silicone hose connections, cold air intake system, full servicing completed
This Defender is everything I always wanted the original to be — classic on the outside, but modern, powerful and refined underneath. I built it to create the perfect long-distance, daily-usable Defender without losing the iconic character. The BMW N57 engine and ZF 8-speed gearbox transform the drive completely: it’s smooth, responsive, and confident at any speed. Pair that with full soundproofing, leather Recaros, Apple CarPlay and dash cams, and it genuinely feels like a modern SUV — just with more soul.
What makes it stand out is that it’s not a showpiece or an overdone build — it’s a properly engineered, fully integrated conversion using quality parts and real attention to detail. I’ve seen plenty of auto Defenders, but most are running stock engines or basic swaps. This is something else.
What do I love most? Probably cruising at 70mph with one hand on the wheel, Recaro seats holding you in place, while the ZF auto shifts effortlessly and the dash cam quietly records the trip. It’s everything the Defender should have been — and now is.
