The Russian division of Arctic Trucks released an upgraded Land Rover Defender 110, a model tailored for demanding off-road environments. This special edition is called Defender Arctic Trucks AT35 and was announced by the company to showcase its enhanced capability in rugged terrain.
The core chassis and exterior foundation of the Defender AT35 were left intact, with the hallmark adaptive suspension system retained to balance on-road comfort against off-road ability. The build features forged 20-inch wheels paired with substantial tires sized at 315/60/R20 or 35×12.5 R20, along with preserved front and rear fender linings. What changed were the geometry and the means by which the vehicle handles extreme conditions. The AT35 received a wider stance through extended fender arches and tuned suspension details, including updated shock absorbers and air-bellows spacers that help manage articulated travel and undercarriage protection. The net effect is a Defender that sits taller and more stable on uneven ground, without compromising the signature Land Rover steering and control feel that enthusiasts expect.
Thanks to the comprehensive tuning package, the Defender AT35 extends its overall dimensions modestly yet noticeably. The vehicle length remains controlled, while the width and height grow to accommodate extra wheel travel and body protection. In this iteration the vehicle stands 65 millimeters taller than before, reaching a height of 2170 millimeters in specific configurations. The height of the standard spring suspension rides at 2065 millimeters, whereas a pneumatic system raises the vehicle further to 2060 millimeters. This calculation reflects a combination of suspension mode and load distribution, giving drivers more ground clearance when crossing rocky ledges or soft trailing surfaces. In terms of reach and approach, the AT35 increases the approach and departure angles, allowing steeper climbs and steeper exits without contacting the bodywork. Ground clearance is upgraded to a maximum of 360 millimeters when the springs are deployed, with air suspension offering 270 millimeters in higher mode, 260 millimeters with more conventional spring suspension, and related figures for other ride modes. In practice, drivers can select a configuration that best matches the terrain, whether it is a dune crossing, mud bog, or rock garden, while maintaining a stable center of gravity under heavy loads.
Under the hood, the AT35 continues to rely on a factory-built powertrain, preserving the engine and transmission from the donor Defender. The heart of the vehicle is a 3.0-liter engine delivering about 400 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination is designed to deliver robust torque and smooth, progressive power delivery suitable for both high-speed desert runs and slow, controlled rock crawling. The tuning work is focused on optimizing chassis dynamics, air suspension behavior, and underbody protection rather than replacing the core propulsion system. The price tag for the upgrade package was not disclosed at the time of the release, leaving potential buyers to inquire directly with Arctic Trucks for exact quotations based on regional market conditions.
Industry observers note that this Defender AT35 aligns with a broader trend in which boutique tuners adapt rugged production SUVs to extreme off-road roles. The aim is to merge factory reliability with enhanced cross-country capability, enabling vehicles to tackle adverse terrains, while still offering a level of civility for daily driving. The Defender AT35 embodies a philosophy of controlled, functional enhancement rather than radical overhauls, preserving the Defender’s renowned off-road heritage while expanding its frontier in performance and adaptability. Sources from the company indicate continued interest in this class of vehicle among enthusiasts and commercial fleets that require dependable access to remote areas. In context, Arctic Trucks’ approach often emphasizes a balanced upgrade: improved traction, greater ground clearance, reinforced bodywork, and refined suspension geometry, all coordinated to maintain overall vehicle integrity on demanding routes. It is worth noting that market dynamics for new and heavily modified SUVs can vary by region, with supply chains and dealer networks shaping availability and pricing across different territories. This update stands as a clear signal that high-end off-road capability remains a compelling segment for both consumers and professional operators who push vehicles beyond conventional use. [Arctic Trucks statement]