Arkonik Reviews 175

I grew up spending years with my old man under a 1985 D110 V8 which was the pride of his life. Had the great fortune of picking up an Arkonik vehicle of exactly the same spec (2018 rebuild) from another owner over here in the US. Had the vehicle now for a few months and put some good miles on it already - it is an absolute joy and an amazing piece of craftsmanship. The rebuild is meticulous and quality of the work is impeccable. First weekend I had it, I spent hours giving it a once over, looking into every nook and cranny, stripping off covers etc and the attention to detail is staggering.

Even before I owned the vehicle Tom was very open and generous with his time in confirming the vehicles specs and giving me the assurance I was buying the genuine article. Since then I have been making some tweaks to make the vehicle my own and their support and advice in doing so has been super helpful and Tom has been a pleasure to deal with.

These guys really know their land rovers and they know how to take care of customers. Like anything, you get what you pay for and if you are serious about owning one of these beauties do yourself a favor and go Arkonik.

I very rarely take the time to write reviews of any sort but proud to offer my two cents here. Now working on how to convince my wife to let me put a D90 in the stable as well!

My name is Ryan Chapman, Lead Technician at Blue Chip Services here in Denver Colorado. Formerly the Shop Foreman at Ferrari of Denver. Through the past 5 years or so I have been working with Arkonik to create a synergy for the clients, their vehicles, the after sales process, and beyond.

Arkonik provides a very tidy final product which is not to say this goes without a hitch but the best part is how the pieces are reassembled after they fall. My own personal experience has been that the team at Arkonik has risen to remedy every concern that comes up, large or small. Covering vehicles inside of warranty is standard. Covering vehicle outside of warranty is very abnormal and a definite scarcity in the industry but Arkonik delivers here as well!

To me it is apparent that Arkonik strives to deliver the best and most valuable final product they can and continue throughout the ownership experience. One day I hope to own one myself!!!!

Ryan Chapman

My wife and I recently had the honor of being the first customer delivery from Arkonik's new SVO facility in Charleston. Until this point, I had not made it to Arkonik in the UK (due to COVID) or even met any Arkonik personnel in person, so I really didn't know what to expect. The delivery experience was awesome. I have had the good fortune of taking delivery of other exotic vehicles, but this experience was over the top. After being picked up at the CHS airport and shuttled to the facility, we rounded the corner from the entrance lobby to lay eyes on our gleaming new D110. I had high expectations, but the reality beat those expectations. From there, nearly every detail of the features and operation of the Defender were pointed out or demonstrated (all while enjoying coffee and snacks). We then went for a test drive with the Arkonik delivery technician, a fuel fill-up, and a return to Arkonik SVO for a lovely lunch. We closed off by having the Pioneer Apple CarPlay unit connected to our devices, signing our paper work, and getting photographs with team. Arkonik offered to ship our vehicle to the house, but we opted to drive it home. Overall, an unforgettable experience and a great way to start life with the D110, which continues to exceed expectations. Before we left, we were 'warned' that we need to build a few extra minutes into our itinerary to answer questions everywhere we stop - it's true. This is an incredibly unique and capable truck.

Great firm! Vehicles are breathtaking and customer service was professional. Would highly recommend! 🙂

Arkonik are by far the best at what they do, excellent vehicles and customer care, I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone, simply awesome!

I source and supply used Defenders to Arkonik. They are a great company to work with and also a big source of inspiration. I chose to work with Arkonik, because they are in my opinion best in the world in building better Defenders.

Arkonik has achieved a next level mastery in building better Defenders. I speak from heart and my own experience as a Land Rover restorer - on each Defender you build, you learn something, so the next one will be better. There is literally no one in the world who produces as many Defenders as Arkonik and therefore has a chance to achieve this level of mastery in building these iconic vehicles to perfection.

Attention to detail and the build process are truly unique. Arkonik vehicles go way beyond market standard, which you notice immidiately from a perfect body alligment and paintjob. There is a great future ahead for Arkonik and I am truly looking forward to witness where will they push the boundaries of possible and perfect.

I hate to say it because I waited close to 18 months but I have had nothing but trouble with my “new” Defender.

Fuel pump, clutch, rusted hood bolts, along with the Expected usual oil leak issues.

I think got too big and popular and their product has fell off a cliff.

Super disappointed.

Well worth the wait! This is our third Defender in 20 years but our first Arkonik. Hands down the craftsmanship and attention to detail is second to none. Arkonik builds are one of a kind and truly a work of art. We’re looking forward to years of fun on and off the roads.

B. Ward
Western NC

I am a second hand owner and even though I didn't buy directly from Arkonik, the service they have provided is top notch. They are very helpful and responsive (and also very patient, special thanks to Oli), in answering questions about the specifics of the car or ordering parts as needed. And the vehicle itself is amazing. I reside in Colorado, it's perfect for mountain roads and winter conditions.

We've been working on Defenders made by Arkonik for the last three years. All of their Defenders are aesthetically pleasing, run great and some of the most comfortable D90s and 110s you'll ever drive! Their awesomeness goes beyond their trucks - the company itself is a pleasure to work with as I've never had an issue with their customer service. They're a fantastic company with a fantastic product!

Arkonk builds a top notch truck with service to match!

If you want a Defender this is the ONLY place I would go! These trucks are set up nicely and are brand new when you get them. The interior options are amazing as well.

To all that are interested in one of these truly iconic vehicles... The Gents at Arkonik deliver the goods far surpassing my expectations. I just received my Defender 110 this week and am looking forward to the many adventures that await.

I was introduced to Arkonik by an Arkonik owner, friend, co-worker and Englishman Steve Freeman. I was very close to a build with E.C.D. (East Coast Defenders) until Steve encouraged me to reach out directly to Tom at HQ.

I wanted the vehicle to retain its value while I owned it: therefore, I was very impressed with the passion for original restoration at Arkonik complimented by understated modifications. My family very much enjoys the outdoors, and this Defender will be tested in its abilities in the Wyoming back country.

The Teton Edition Defender will live at our home in Jackson, Wyoming right under the Teton mountain range. Every thought that went into the design was meant to combat the harsh weather and road and trail conditions in Jackson Hole. The heated windshield, heated seats, dual batteries, black leather interior, and black hood and roof surfaces will help battle the negative 30 Fahrenheit temperatures while skies are blue. The amber spotlights and quad fog lights will assist with the poor visibility navigating the 500+ inches of annual snowfall. The Raptor painted surfaces all around are a must to protect the metal from chips and rust. The dual fuel tanks are necessary to ramble around Grand Teton National Park’s 310,000 acres, Yellowstone National Park’s 2.2 million acres, and the Bridger - Teton National Forest’s 3.4 million acres! The roof rack will be needed for additional fuel and vehicle recovery gear.

We removed the center rear seat so our snow skis could slide inside the Defender, but we retained the 3rd row jump seats for a comfortable forward facing ride on the rough terrain. The fuel injection is necessary for the extreme altitude and the heavy duty radiator is needed for summer trips south into Utah and Arizona.

Arkonik was patient and thoughtful while guiding me through this build process. I imagine that the Defender will stay in the family for many generations to enjoy. It is the ultimate tool to conquer the Wyoming back country!

Last year, Arkonik built for me the Forager Model - a 1989 D110 with a fuel injected V8. Arkonik is top notch in their design and execution. I had done extensive research on a number of companies in this space, and none seemed to have it so well figured out. They walked me through the whole process of building the vehicle, and showed total attention to detail. Touring their facility was a thrill, just to see how it is all done, and all the aspects they have worked out and refined over the years. Their experience with customs and the shipping and delivery was also impressive, and took all the worry out of the process. Forager arrived at our door in an enclosed flat bed gleaming like it had just rolled out of the shop. We are in Virginia and Forager has been fun for the whole family with trips out to the fire roads of the George Washington National Forest for hiking trips, and for transporting the family canoe and gear for trips out to the lake. And in addition to being an ideal shuttle for getting me and the mountain bike to trail heads, during COVID, its been great for carrying all the kids bikes out to more remote places to trail ride to get away from it all safely. Post delivery, Arkonik has been incredibly responsive and supportive with the mechanical issues and questions that will come up from time to time on such vehicles of such vintage. It has become my daily driver, and the kids love it - the Frontrunner roof rack and ladder also double as a jungle gym, it turns out . . . Arkonik is an impressive operation and group of people that turns out a fantastic product.

I have owned my Arkonik Defender 110, named Skyfall, since 2015. I started the purchase process in 2014 while living in France and took delivery of the vehicle in the US. Although I was early in the Arkonik story, I can tell you that my experience was excellent.

From the design phase to the tour of the facility to the delivery in the US, and even a service visit a year later, the entire experience exceeded expectations. The whole team was always very responsive, expectations were set clearly and then met, and there was always a friendly encounter.

I chose a classic style for my truck and was never upsold or influenced into any overbuilding. In fact, the original design team was as excited about the design as I was and totally got into the process with me, even when I was trying to source some old school fabric for the seats. I can still remember my first visit to the facility when Tom P personally drove me back to St Pancras. Very attentive service!

The truck itself was and still is magnificent in all regards. Finish quality is very high, design is spot on, and there is never a day I get in and drive it that I regret the not insignificant price. I am fortunate to have several well-known brand vehicles but I can say that without fail this is the biggest head turner/conversation piece of them all by far.

After a year of ownership I had a small issue with a leaky door seal. The Arkonik team lined me up with a specialist who had flown over from the UK with seals in hand to replace both front seals. I didn't have to say anything other than I was having this issue and they proactively arranged the service call to my house. That's service.

Five years on and my Defender is still excellent with all finishes holding up and the driving experience as new (better actually :))

With Andy very involved, a winning culture in the shop, and many folks such as Tom P having been there for years, this is the best place to invest your money when securing a high quality Defender.

Best of luck in your purchase journey!

What is now several years ago, I bought a Defender 90 from Arkonik. It was a modest makeover compared to the inspirational vehicles they usually create. I have been on their email list since I had my Defender sent to the US. Their emails inspired me to gradually upgrade my “friend” over time, which include replacing the engine with 300 tdi, adding air conditioning, and a off the frame paint re-spray. Much of the body restoration was done by a shop in Charleston SC called Fenix Automotive. Arkonik knows Mike Fitzgerald and his team at Fenix quite well. Anyway, as long as I am able, I will own a Defender. The next one will be from Arkonik as well. Look forward to your return soon after The COVID storm passes. Thanks again for the inspiration. Keep up the awesome work.

Warren Koontz

I was fortunate to have purchased new a NAS Defender 90 in 1995. My experience with this vehicle instilled in me the desire to once again own another of these truly unique trucks.

As I researched my options I came across Arkonik. Initially, I was taken aback at the long lead time but based upon all I read and discovered in conversations with owners of Arkonik's products I made the decision to move forward. What an amazing journey it has been!

I began the process discussing my options with Tom Parry. Tom was the consummate professional. His unpressured guidance and wealth of knowledge regarding his product helped me create the ideal combination of accessories and visions of what was to be the perfect, Defender 90 that married my experiences with my original D90 and what would ultimately become my dream creation. Tom also extended the invitation to visit the Arkonik facility in the UK. This is a great idea for those who are considering an Arkonik vehicle of their own. The trip was so worthwhile and informative.

Upon my arrival in Bath, I was greeted by Andy Stacy who shuttled me to the Land Rover Driving Experience at Eastnoor Castle. We were paired with a Driving Instructor and spent the entire afternoon on the trails of the Castle. The insights of the Instructor coupled with the knowledge that Andy shared really reinforces the capabilities of these vehicles.

The following morning Andy collected me and took me to the Arkonik facility where I met Tom formally and began the personalized journey through the process of creating my vehicle. It becomes immediately obvious why the finished product is what it is. The dedication, commitment, and most importantly the pride that goes into every step of the construction process is so very apparent. The teams willingness to add, delete, and adjust the pieces of the puzzle to enable you to create the perfect personalized end result was nothing short of amazing.

As the actual production of my vehicle began, Sam Pearce set up my "Portal" to allow me to see pictures of the process. I found myself waiting anxiously for the latest updates of photos as the journey of my truck progressed.

As the D90 neared completion Tom handed me over to Scott McCabe who walked me through the delivery steps. He was so thoroughly prepared to provide information on the journey down to tracking the location of the ship carrying the truck across the pond. One more example of the level of professionalism that the entire team exhibits.

On the day of delivery, Eric Yohe, reached out to me to coordinate the "Hand Over" plan. As I had come to expect, Eric is another great example of how things are done the "right way" with Arkonik. Eric's knowledge of the mechanics of the Land Rover products and his persona made me feel like my big brother was handing down his personal pride and joy.

Overall, the Experience with Arkonik has been one of the most professional, well thought out, and perfectly orchestrated experiences I could have imagined. I was in very capable, experienced, professional, caring hands from start to finish. Most importantly, the finished product is amazing.

I write about cars for a living. Visited Arkonik for a story rather than with purchase intent. Very impressed by the process and quality of the customer care and engineering. It has all the advantages of a production line – consistency and repeatability – but with huge personalisation potential. The vehicles are spectacularly expensive but compared with other restored and updated classic cars they're value. And indeed when you see the hours and skills that go into them, that same conclusion obtains.
Just remember that however well-built the final result, you're still buying a Land Rover with all that implies: character, durability, strength, go-anywhere ability, discomfort, high consumption, pretty lousy on-road dynamics.

The Arkonik experience, from start to finish, is a journey, and one worth taking if you are considering a custom-built Defender. Taking the initial leap with nothing more than phone calls and online diligence was a big hurdle, but ultimately a leap that I am glad I took. Tom at Arkonik was there for me every step of the way, from answering every last question I had over the phone, accommodating two site visits before and during the build process, and even taking me and my family off-roading at Eastnor for a true Land Rover Defender Experience. Despite some delays with my build process, the final product (including the handover with Eric, which was awesome) was better than I could have imagined. With a hand made custom built product, every vehicle is unique and you need a little patience to get what you want, the way you want it, at Arkonik’s standards. And it’s worth it. I’ve had my D110 for about a month and coming up on 600 miles as I break in the engine and I can feel the performance improving along the way.

I also have to commend Grant, Scott and the Support team for their help with the registration paperwork, assistance with post-delivery questions and help finding a suitable repair shop for ongoing maintenance. Arkonik is still there for you even after your vehicle is delivered. Truly kept their word and have been top notch.

If you are considering Arkonik I cannot recommend them enough.