Ever since the Land Rover Defender 90 was initially discontinued a decade ago (and subsequently brought back slightly different in 2020), restomod shops have taken it upon themselves to carry on the legacy of these classic, boxy SUVs. And as a result, we’ve seen some of the best examples of the off-roader ever.
French-based custom builder Hedonic, known for inspired takes on both Porsches and Land Rovers, has one of the best commission programs we’ve seen, now offering one-off builds of the Defender 90 Soft-Top. They must know that open-air driving is in desperate need of a comeback.
Built From the Ground Up
Hedonic Machines, the automotive arm of the Cap-Ferret-based luxury brand, approaches these projects with a philosophy they call “[re]creation,” the idea that iconic vehicles should be reborn for actual driving instead of just sitting in a garage. Founded by Serge Heitz, a longtime classic car dealer embedded in the Classic Driver world, Hedonic has carved out a reputation in ultra-private commission territory, building fully bespoke 911s and Defenders that frequently sell before the work is even finished. This Defender 90 Soft Top Custom is no different in that regard.
This build is a proper ground-up restoration, so the chassis, engine, electrical system, transmission, and structural components have all been completely rebuilt. The powertrain is a turbocharged diesel paired with a modern suspension setup and upgraded brakes.
Air to the Throne
Inspired by summertime adventuring, the soft-top one-off you see here is built from a 1993 Defender 90 example. Hedonic’s signature Midnight Grey exterior finish is complemented by handcrafted aluminum grille and vents, galvanized bumpers front and rear, and leather straps on the spare wheel. Likewise, the windshield can fold down like you’ll find on pre-’94 Defender models.
Inside, cinnamon leather upholstery under the “Open the Road” treatment wraps a 3-seat configuration with light wood flooring and matching door panels. The aluminum steering wheel and fuel cap are Hedonic originals. Meanwhile, modern air conditioning, Apple CarPlay, and a Bluetooth audio system round things out.
Typically, Hedonic’s soft top itself can be configured as a convertible canvas in sand beige or run fully open in what Hedonic calls the “Open Road” configuration, like the example you above. Given that the original Defender 90 Soft-Top became a cult favorite in North America during the ’90s precisely because of its open-air character, this is arguably one of the most faithful spiritual successors.
And yes, that vintage Husqvarna motocross bike strapped to the rear is the cherry on top.
Spec Sheet
Model: Land Rover Defender 90 Soft Top Custom
Builder: Hedonic Machines
Engine: Turbo Diesel
Suspension: Modern upgraded setup
Steering: Power steering
Seating: 3-seat (cubby box + rear bench)
Top Config: Sand beige canvas / full Open Road
Exterior: Midnight Grey by Hedonic
Tech: Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth audio, A/C
Edition: One-off bespoke commission
Pricing & Availability
The Defender 90 Soft Top Custom is available as a fully bespoke commission through Hedonic Machines. Pricing is available upon request, in line with Hedonic’s broader commission model where each build is treated as a one-off project.
Given the brand’s track record of selling builds before completion, interested buyers should reach out sooner rather than later. The blacked-out example you see here is already spoken for.
Recap
Hedonic Land Rover Defender 90 Soft-Top Custom
French custom shop Hedonic just dropped a fully restored Defender 90 Soft Top that’s been rebuilt from the ground up with a turbo diesel, modern suspension, and a bespoke interior, all while keeping the open-air soul of the original intact.
