Britain's version of the Jeep Wrangler, the iconic Land Rover Defender, could soon disappear. The Defender first arrived in 1947 and continues to be hugely popular for rescue services, farmers and utility companies. The Defender prides itself on its flexibility and adaptability of use and Land Rover is trying to return the favor in order to prolong the off-roader's career. Options tossed around have included everything from a complete redesign to simply adding a cleaner engine.

The current Defender will meet Euro V emissions regulations up to 2016. Afterwards its future is unclear. A third and more expensive option could be to adopt the Range Rover Sport or Discovery platforms. Land Rover UK's MD Colin Green told Auto Express UK that changing the classic 4x4 meant that "If we get it wrong we are messing up one of the industry's biggest icons, and in that sense it's a tremendous responsibility." Land Rover says that cancelling the Defender is their last option. For those who have come to love the versatile off-roader that should be welcome news.