The Land Rover Defender Challenge Is Your New Favourite Rally Series

Land Rover has announced that it is the official sponsor of the 2014 Defender Challenge by Bowler, a one-make rally series which is operated by Bowler Motorsports. The series will act as a feeder to the annual Dakar rally and other rally-raid competitions.

Competitors will get a modified Defender 90. Bowler has tickled the 2.2-litre diesel to produce 170bhp - an increase of 50bhp - as well as fitting lightweight 18-inch alloys wrapped in controlled Kumho rubber, a full roll cage and a new suspension system including new dampers, springs, roll bars and bushes. Best of all? These mods keep the Defender road legal, so you can drive to an event, tear up whatever surface you find yourself on, then drive your filthy motor home.

The modded Defender will set you back £50,000 plus VAT, while the series' entry fees range from £10,000 to £14,000 depending on the package selected.

The series, which takes place next year across the UK, is open to newbies and will provide help in training and gaining a license for bigger rally events.