Land Rover Defender Special Edition set for U.K.

The 2012 Land Rover Defender Special Edition will join the growing list of cool cars that aren't coming stateside. At least we aren't getting our hopes up—not only did they snub the Detroit auto show, but Land Rover hasn't brought a Defender SUV here since 1997.

The latest iteration of the go-everywhere off-roader will wear one of two colors, Orkney grey or nara bronze. The roof, wheel arches and checker plate will contrast in black.

A new bumper assembly aids ingress, egress and loading. The front end gets black headlight surrounds, gloss-black Land Rover lettering and a body-color grille.

Body choices will include the 90 Hard Top, the 90 Station Wagon, the 110 Station Wagon and the 110 Utility Wagon. The number in the name is the length of the wheelbase in inches. The ute will be powered by a 2.2-liter diesel engine, making 266 lb-ft of torque.

The interior of the nara bronze truck is available with a two-tone ebony and almond interior, with contrasting stitching on the wheels and seats. The Land Rover logo is embossed on the front headrest, and the Defender logo is on the floor mats.

Pricing hasn't been announced but the base model costs $43,466 converted from pounds, so plan on a bit more than that. As long as you're in Europe.

By Jake Lingeman