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JIA Chieftain Range Rover

15-Feb-2024 10:11:54 | AutoCar

Classic Range Rover transformation gives iconic SUV a new lease of life, as well as choice of ICE, EV and PHEV power We should have seen it coming. All those rivet-popping Defenders from the likes of Twisted, JE Motorworks and Kahn Design, made over then force-fed horsepower like corn-gorged Barbary ducks destined for the fois gras tin.Well, now it has happened to Land Rover’s second landmark car, the Range Rover Classic. Not only does JLR offer its own restored version of what is considered by most the original luxury SUV, there are also various upgraded versions from independent fettlers such as Kingsley, Lunaz and inverted to name a few. However, none offer such a comprehensive range of updates as JIA (Jensen International Automotive).The small Oxfordshire concern made its name with tastefully updated and upgraded Jensen Interceptors and FFs, before turning its attention to its Chevy V8-engined Chieftain line-up, which are effective classic Range Rovers given a modern twist in a number of different ways. Whether you want good old-fashioned V8 power, plug-in electric hybrid motivation  or pure electric propulsion, JIA has it covered. There’s even a range of chassis options, from retaining the original’s underpinnings to effectively grafting the iconic Spen King-penned bodywork onto a far more modern Discovery 3 platform. And of course the interior can be lavishly appointed with all the luxurious blandishments your heart could desire. As ever with these restomod projects, the only  restrictions are your imagination and budget, with the latter needing to be fairly hefty - although in most respects the outlay is worth it.