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MotorHelix is already back with additional items for its 1:64 scale series, according to Diecast Society. The company announced three new models on July 9, 2026, offering collectors two versions of a Subaru classic and a new livery for a recent Le Mans winner.

Leading the announcement is the Subaru Impreza Wagon WRX STi Version VI. MotorHelix is offering this model in two distinct color options: CUSCO Silver Livery (product number M67110) and CUSCO Black Livery (M67109). The third new model is a companion to MotorHelix’s recently released Mazda 787B. This latest version is the Mazda 787B #201 in Green/White livery, identified by product number M60112.

A Closer Look at the Mazda 787B in 1:64

The Mazda 787B holds a legendary status in motorsport history for its 1991 24 Hours of Le Mans victory. MotorHelix’s new #201 version joins the previously released #55 RENOWN winner car in the lineup. That earlier model, which has already been released, features the iconic vivid orange and green color scheme along with intricate sponsor logos. According to retailer Model Cars Houston, the RENOWN #55 is made from diecast metal, part number MH64-787B-RWN1, and comes with detachable diecast accessories. It is officially licensed by Mazda in collaboration with RENOWN, and production is limited. The #201 model offers a different look: a green and white livery that provides a fresh alternative to the Renown colors. Together, the two liveries represent different chapters of the 787B’s racing history.

MotorHelix’s Growing 1:64 Portfolio

MotorHelix has rapidly built a reputation among diecast collectors for its premium-quality, limited-production models. The brand has emerged as a formidable rival to established European and Asian manufacturers, thanks to its unwavering commitment to detail and use of high-quality materials. Even in 1:64 scale, MotorHelix uses full diecast metal bodies rather than composite materials, giving each model substantial weight and an authentic feel. According to a collector guide, the 1:64 range is the brand’s answer to the booming market for highly-detailed, small-scale models, and is described as a ‘New Wave’ for urban collectors. These models are approximately 2.5 to 3 inches in length, yet they pack in features rarely seen at this scale. Opening bonnets are a rare feature, and MotorHelix includes them on many 1:64 models, allowing a glimpse of the miniature engine. The models also feature extremely detailed wheel designs, brake calipers, and a perfectly scaled ride height, making them ideal for desktop display or diorama building. Production runs are strictly limited, often under 2,000 units per model, with prices ranging from $30 to $80 USD. The RENOWN #55, for instance, is a limited production model, and its earlier release illustrates the brand’s strategy of creating scarcity. This scarcity, combined with faithful recreation of real-world vehicles and authentic racing liveries, has helped MotorHelix quickly earn a spot on serious collectors’ shelves. Though a relatively new name, MotorHelix has rapidly earned a distinguished spot by focusing on limited runs and premium materials. With each new release, the brand continues to build its reputation for quality and scarcity.

With these three new additions, MotorHelix continues to expand its 1:64 catalog with iconic Japanese performance cars finished in authentic racing liveries. The Subaru wagon offers two distinct CUSCO looks, while the Mazda 787B #201 adds another historic livery to the lineup. Collectors should keep an eye on MotorHelix’s distribution channels and authorized retailers for availability and pre-order windows.

Kyosho has just released a fresh batch of optional upgrade parts for its Inferno MP11 1/8 nitro buggy, giving racers a direct path to shave weight and fine-tune handling without swapping the entire chassis. The lineup includes multiple carbon fiber components and two adjustable steering knuckle plates, all available now through Kyosho America.

Carbon Fiber Weight Reduction

Six of the new parts are machined from lightweight carbon fiber, each targeting a specific area where reducing mass can improve performance. The Carbon Rear Shock Stay (#IFW715, $57.99) and Carbon Front Shock Stay (#IFW714, $57.99) replace the stock shock towers. Kyosho says the carbon fiber construction cuts overall weight, minimizes chassis roll during cornering, and sharpens cornering response for more precise handling.

Moving to the servo bay, the Carbon Throttle Servo Plate (#IFW713, $21.99) and Carbon Steering Servo Plate (#IFW712, $23.99) are lightweight replacements for the stock resin plates. The steering servo plate is specifically noted for enhancing steering response, giving the driver a more direct feel at the wheel.

The Carbon Center Diff Plate (#IFW711, $21.99) reduces weight around the drivetrain’s heart, while the Carbon Upper Plate (#IFW710, $21.99) — a front upper plate made of carbon fiber — not only saves mass but also improves the buggy’s ability to absorb bumps and maintain stability over rough terrain. Both plates contribute to a lighter, more responsive vehicle.

Fine-Tuning the Steering Geometry

Two new SP Front Knuckle Plate sets give builders control over the Ackermann steering geometry. The #IFW708-02 (-3) version relocates the tie rod mounting position rearward from the kit’s standard location, allowing the driver to tune the steering curve for tighter or more aggressive cornering. The #IFW708-01 (0/MP11) version lets the tie rod mounting position be adjusted inward or outward from the stock location. Both knuckle plates are priced at $21.99 and are designed specifically for the MP11 series.

More Carbon Options in the Pipeline

Beyond the parts Kyosho directly announced, retailers such as HobbyTown and AMain Hobbies are already listing additional Kyosho carbon fiber upgrades for the MP11. The Carbon Fiber Front Lower Suspension Plate Set (KYOIFW705) provides a more rigid foundation for the front suspension arms, reducing arm flex on high-grip surfaces. The Carbon Fiber Rear Torque Rod Plates (KYOIFW707) replace stock resin parts to increase rear torque rod rigidity, suppress chassis flex, and improve rear grip. These companion parts expand the tuning range available to MP11 owners.

Pricing and Availability

All eight items announced in this batch — six carbon fiber plates and two adjustable knuckle plates — are available now from Kyosho America’s website and through authorized dealers. Prices range from $21.99 for the smaller plates to $57.99 for the shock stays. For racers building a competition-spec Inferno MP11 or simply looking to tighten up specific weak points, this parts drop offers a straightforward way to trim weight and dial in the chassis without major surgery.

Visit KyoshoAmerica.com for product codes and ordering details.

The LEGO Group is celebrating three and a half decades of one of humanity’s most important scientific instruments with a new standalone model. The LEGO Icons 11382 Hubble Space Telescope has been officially unveiled as a detailed, 1,252-piece display set that marks the 35th anniversary of the iconic observatory’s launch into orbit.

A Standalone Tribute to a Space Legend

The new set is a substantial addition to the LEGO Icons lineup. Unlike the smaller, deployable version included with the 2021 LEGO NASA Space Shuttle Discovery (set 10283), this model is built as a dedicated display piece. It measures 32 cm (12.5 inches) wide and 33 cm (13 inches) tall. The stand includes printed tiles depicting three of Hubble’s most famous images: the Pillars of Creation, the Galaxy NGC 2525, and the Butterfly Nebula.

Pricing and Availability

The set comes with the following international pricing:

• US: $139.99
• UK: £119.99
• EU: €129.99
• Canada: CAD $199.99
• Australia: AU $229.99

Pre-orders are already open in select countries ahead of the global launch.

A Legacy of Discovery

The real Hubble Space Telescope was launched aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery during mission STS-31 in 1990. It has since revolutionized astronomy, providing data that has led to countless discoveries and delivering iconic images that have captured the public’s imagination. The 2021 LEGO set (10283) — a complex 2,354-piece build developed in collaboration with NASA — paid homage to the Shuttle Discovery itself, which carried Hubble into space. That set, priced at $199.99 USD, included a smaller model of the telescope that could be folded into the shuttle’s payload bay or expanded with its solar array and displayed separately. It also marked the 40th anniversary of the first Space Shuttle flight.

Former NASA Astronaut Dr. Kathy Sullivan, who flew on the original STS-31 mission, offered her thoughts on that earlier set in a 2021 interview with the LEGO Group. She said:

“I was thrilled to see the space shuttle in LEGO form, and was very impressed by the amount of intricate detail they have managed to recreate from the module where we used to sleep and eat through to what we called the “milk stalls” on the telescope. Looking at the model, it was great to reminisce about my experiences in space launching the telescope for the first time. Hubble is definitely the highlight of my career. This LEGO model is a great way for LEGO builders and space fans alike to get excited about space travel and learn more about the famous mission in a fun and engaging way.”

While the earlier set focused on the partnership between the shuttle and the telescope, the new 11382 Hubble Space Telescope lets builders focus entirely on the observatory itself. With its display stand celebrating Hubble’s greatest images, the model stands as a dedicated tribute to a true pioneer of modern astronomy. The set will be released on August 1, 2026, with pre-orders already open in select countries.

The RC10, often called the most iconic RC buggy design in history, continues to get aftermarket support. The latest to offer upgrades is Exotek Racing, which has released three heavy-duty parts designed as direct replacements for the original components: a machined aluminum wing mount and carbon fiber front and rear shock towers.

Aluminum Wing Mount – #2400

Machined from aluminum alloy, the wing mount (#2400) is built for durability. It’s designed for use with Exotek’s own #2399 rear shock tower or similar aftermarket towers. The mount includes M3 hardware and works with optional #1678 wing buttons, available in several colors. Retail price: $27.95.

Carbon Fiber Front Shock Tower – #2398

The front tower (#2398) is a heavy-duty 3mm thick carbon fiber shock tower for the classic RC10 series with small bore shocks. Exotek recessed the camber mount holes to allow greater clearance for ball studs, and added two extra camber hole locations. The result, according to the company, is increased steering response and extra clearance to prevent ball ends from hitting each other. The tower includes optional 5.5mm ball studs. Price: $18.95.

Carbon Fiber Rear Shock Tower – #2399

The rear tower (#2399) is also a heavy-duty 3mm carbon fiber shock tower, stiffer than the stock part for more consistency. It features multiple mounting holes that accept a variety of optional wing mounts, including Exotek’s new #2400 (4-hole) or #1958 (3-hole) mounts, as well as similar 4-hole designs from other brands. You can still use the original wire wing mounts if desired. Price: $18.95.

The RC10 Aftermarket Scene

Exotek isn’t the only company catering to RC10 owners. Earlier this year, Neo Racing released aluminum front shock towers and a carbon fiber transmission brace for the same platform. The Neo Racing towers are a distinctive two-piece design that combines the arm mount with the tower itself, creating a stylish new accessory that is unlike anything else for the RC10 platform. They feature bright chamfered edges that highlight the unique outline. They mount using the stock 8-32 screws and accept either 4-40 or M3 threaded camber link studs and upper shock mounting screws (not included). The carbon fiber transmission brace blends minimalist styling with excellent strength. Made in the USA and Canada, it fits any RC10 with a Stealth transmission, but note that it eliminates the rear body mounting point, requiring a Velcro body mount.

JConcepts also offers carbon fiber shock towers, but for the RC10 4WD variant. The RC10 4WD was recently reintroduced, and aftermarket parts remain in high demand. Their front (part #5284) and rear (#5285) towers are made from 2.5mm carbon fiber with reinforced areas for added strength. The company notes that the stock fiberglass towers lack the rigidity and appearance of carbon fiber. The front tower is designed for the wide-track front suspension geometry and is intended for drivers upgrading to the longer front a-arm version of the RC10. The rear tower maintains the RC10 4wd geometry but adds extra adjustment holes inspired by the race-winning RC10 Worlds car. JConcepts’ towers retail for $30.00 each (MAP $25.50). Exotek’s carbon towers are 3mm thick, while JConcepts’ 4WD towers are 2.5mm.

Availability

Exotek’s new parts are available now directly from ExotekRacing.com. The aluminum wing mount (#2400) is $27.95, the front carbon tower (#2398) is $18.95, and the rear carbon tower (#2399) is $18.95. The RC10 platform continues to inspire new aftermarket parts, and Exotek’s latest additions give owners more options for upgrading their buggies.

Axial just dropped a new accessory that turns your trail rig into a full-on scale hauler. The 1/10 Scale Flat Bed Vehicle Trailer is purpose-built for SCX10 crawlers and other 1/10 scale vehicles, and it comes ready to hitch up right out of the box.

Bold Design, Real Function

This isn’t just a static display piece. The trailer features a rigid composite frame that can handle loads up to 15 lbs through rough terrain, making it a genuinely functional tow-behind companion. The dual-axle setup lets the wheels roll freely and independently, allowing for sharper turns without jack-knifing, thanks to a full-length trailer tongue.

Adjustable Everything

One of the biggest headaches with small-scale trailers is getting the hitch height right. Axial solved that with a vertically adjustable hitch that you can move up or down by removing two screws. A durable 7.5mm pivot ball serves as the mounting point, and the kit includes hardware to work with SCX10 vehicles that already have a hitch receiver bumper, plus extra hardware for those that don’t.

An adjustable trailer jack lets you set the height for hauling or storage with a simple pin pull. That kind of detail is exactly what crawler fans expect from Axial.

Scale Details That Pop

The trailer deck uses injection-molded composite with a diamond plate texture for improved grip and scale looks. Plastic faux wood panels run down the center, adding a classic flatbed appearance while keeping weight down. Industry-standard 1.55-inch wheels and tires are included, and because they’re standard scale, you can swap them for aftermarket options if you want.

Detachable loading ramps make it easy to drive a crawler or touring car onto the deck, and they stow underneath the rear of the trailer when not in use — just like the real thing. The ramps can handle vehicles up to 200mm touring car size, so your buggy or short-course truck should fit too.

Lights That Work

Prewired 5mm red LED running lights are factory-installed and plug directly into an open port on your receiver. That means realistic illumination on the trail, indoors or outdoors, day or night. No soldering, no extra battery packs — just connect and go.

Customization and Display

Axial includes a scale decal sheet with license plates, faux reflection decals, no-step warnings, and bumper decals. The trailer also has tow strap mounts ready for mini straps, and the center deck panel can be replaced with real wood for hyper-scale builds. Whether you’re parking it on a shelf with your collection or towing a rig to the trailhead, this trailer is built to look good and work hard.

Price and Availability

The Axial 1/10 Scale Flat Bed Vehicle Trailer is available now under part number AXI-3409 for $129.99. It ships complete with the trailer, adjustable hitch with pivot ball, detachable ramps, scale decal sheet, and product manual. No additional parts are needed — just install the hitch and tow.

For crawlers who want to extend the adventure from the workshop to the trail, this flat bed trailer adds a whole new layer of scale realism and functionality. Pick one up and start planning your next convoy.

Die-cast collectors who’ve been eyeing a proper 1:18 scale Lamborghini LM002 finally have a new color option. AUTOart has officially opened pre-orders for the Lamborghini LM002 in Nero Tenebre (black) with a red interior.

What’s in the Box

The model comes in 1:18 scale and is constructed from diecast composite materials. Most panels and doors are designed to open, giving collectors a full view of the detailed interior. The model features fully opening doors, hood, and engine cover, with only the rear tailgate remaining fixed. The exterior paint is Nero Tenebre (a deep black), while the cabin gets a contrasting red treatment. Product number for this variant is 74550, and AUTOart has slated delivery for September 2026.

Retailers such as Diecast Legends and mDiecast are already listing it as a pre-order item. Diecast Legends notes that the model has not yet been manufactured and that the image shown is a visual representation subject to change. They also clarify that they will not charge the customer’s card until the order is processed for dispatch, and the price charged will be the correct retail price at the time of release. mDiecast currently lists the model as not available, inviting collectors to add it to a wishlist for notification.

A Growing Lineup

While the Nero Tenebre version is the latest announcement, it’s not the only LM002 variant in the pipeline. A red variant, Rosso Siviglia (product 74551), has already appeared at European retailers. German retailer modellauto18.de lists the Rosso Siviglia model at €347.99 with an availability date of August 2026, just a month before the black version. That listing also notes that the model is manufactured by Gateway Europe GmbH (Sigsfeldstr. 18b, D-52078 Aachen, Germany) and includes a warning that it is a collector’s model not suitable for children under 14. The earlier coverage on xdiecast.com referred to the LM002 with its nickname “Rambo Lamborghini” and noted that 1:18 scale collectors had been waiting for a decent replica of this off-road machine, underscoring the demand AUTOart is now addressing with multiple color options.

What Collectors Should Know

As with all AUTOart pre-orders, the Nero Tenebre LM002 is a composite diecast model, combining metal and high-quality plastic components. It is a collectible item intended for adult hobbyists. A warning label on retail listings states: “Collectors model. Not suitable for children under 14 years.” Prices have not been officially confirmed by AUTOart, but the Rosso Siviglia variant provides a reference point: €347.99 via the German retailer, suggesting a similar price bracket for the Nero Tenebre. Collectors should be aware that pre-order dates are subject to change and that images on retailer sites are placeholders until final production units are available. Diecast Legends will not charge the card until the order is ready for dispatch, and the final price will be the retail price at release.

Looking Ahead

With deliveries expected in September 2026 for the Nero Tenebre variant and August 2026 for the Rosso Siviglia version, LM002 fans have two distinct options arriving this year. Both models are currently in pre-order status, and interested collectors should monitor retailer listings for availability and notification services. For those eyeing the Nero Tenebre, adding the model to a wishlist on mDiecast will provide updates when it becomes available. As AUTOart continues to expand its 1:18 lineup, the LM002 in Nero Tenebre with red interior offers a stealthy alternative for those who prefer a darker finish.

Serpent has just dropped a tiny terror for RC fans: the Mini Spyder Monster Truck RTR. This 1/18-scale, four-wheel-drive electric buggy rolls out of the box ready to hit the dirt—or the living room carpet—right away.

Pocket-Sized Power

Despite its compact dimensions—just 290x190x185 mm and 840 grams—the Mini Spyder packs a punch. A coreless motor pushes it past 25 km/h, making it a proper little speedster. Serpent built the chassis from super elastic plastic to absorb shocks, and high-grip off-road wheels keep it stuck to loose surfaces. The full suspension 4WD system handles rough terrain with ease.

“If this is too fast for you in the living room or children’s room, you can also reduce the speed thanks to a rotary control nub,” says Serpent.

That rotary nub on the 2.4GHz proportional remote lets parents (or cautious drivers) dial down the pace without swapping electronics. The transmitter delivers full proportional throttle, brake, and steering, and because it uses modern 2.4GHz technology, multiple Mini Spyders can race side by side with no interference.

Under the Hood

The Mini Spyder isn’t just a toy-grade basher. Inside you’ll find a 17g servo, a coreless brushed 380 motor, and a 30A brushed speed controller—components that deliver responsive performance. Power comes from a 7.4V 1500mAh Li-ion battery, which charges fully in about 3 to 3.5 hours via the included USB charger and delivers roughly 35 minutes of driving time. The battery is removable for easy swapping.

What’s in the Box?

Serpent sells the Mini Spyder as a complete ready-to-run package. Open the full-color carton and you get:

• 1:18 Mini Spyder Monster Truck 4WD RTR
• 2.4GHz remote control
• 1500mAh Li-ion battery
• USB charger
• Owner’s manual with exploded views, parts list, and optionals list
• Decal sheet with Serpent Mini Spyder logos

The only thing you’ll need to supply is 3 AA batteries for the transmitter.

Optional Upgrades and Manual

Serpent notes that “lots of optional parts” are available to make the car even faster, though the press release doesn’t specify which parts. The included manual has a full optionals list, so owners can easily find upgrade parts. The manual also includes all exploded views for easy part identification and replacement.

Packaging and Versatility

The Mini Spyder Monster Truck 4WD RTR comes in a strong carton box with full color printing. Serpent says the package “offers a complete package to enjoy running anywhere outdoors on even surfaces / parking lots or even join any indoor or outdoor race.” Whether you’re setting up a mini Grand Prix on the patio or just want a compact basher for the backyard, this little truck is designed to deliver.

Specs at a Glance

| Feature | Detail |
|—|—|
| Scale | 1:18 |
| Drive | 4WD with full suspension |
| Top speed | +25 km/h (adjustable via remote) |
| Motor | Coreless brushed 380 |
| ESC | 30A brushed |
| Servo | 17g |
| Battery | 7.4V 1500mAh Li-ion (removable) |
| Charge time | ~3–3.5 hours |
| Run time | ~35 minutes |
| Dimensions | 290 x 190 x 185 mm |
| Weight | 840 g |
| Remote | 2.4GHz full proportional |
| Multiple vehicles | Yes, 2.4GHz allows simultaneous driving |
| Model number | #SER440001 |

The Serpent Mini Spyder Monster Truck 4WD RTR (SER440001) is available now from serpent.com. With its coreless motor, adjustable speed, and all-in-one RTR package, this tiny truck is ready to rip right out of the box.

Redcat Racing has just expanded its rock-crawling lineup in a big way, unveiling four new models under the Vertex 10 platform. The new family includes two ready-to-run (RTR) trucks and two builder-ready Slider kits, all built around lightweight carbon-fiber construction and designed for different driving styles and terrain.

Four Models, One Platform

The new lineup consists of the Vertex 10, Vertex 10 Wide, Vertex 10 Slider, and Vertex 10 Wide Slider. Each model shares a 3 mm carbon-fiber chassis and high-clearance portal axles, but they’re tuned for different approaches to crawling.

Redcat describes the platform as a “complete crawling ecosystem” that balances strength, responsiveness, and control. The RTR models come fully assembled and ready to run, while the Slider kits arrive as pre-built chassis with unpainted bodies and decals, leaving the builder to supply their own electronics, wheels, and tires.

Vertex 10: Precision for Tight Lines

The standard Vertex 10 is built for technical, competition-style crawling. It features a 204 mm hex-to-hex width, a 316 mm wheelbase, and a 3 mm carbon-fiber chassis. Power comes from a Hobbywing 2812 1700 KV brushless outrunner motor paired with a HW WP-10BL60 Crawler RTR ESC and a Hexfly HX-50BL 50 kg brushless servo. A 20% overdrive split gives it sharp steering response for tight-line work. The Vertex 10 is priced at $499.99.

Vertex 10 Wide: Stability for Bold Lines

The Vertex 10 Wide (Vertex 10W) stretches the platform to a 228 mm stance and a 330 mm wheelbase, offering greater stability on steep climbs and off-camber terrain. It rides on larger 5.25-inch tires mounted on 2.2-inch beadlock wheels and delivers 74 mm of ground clearance. A 32% overdrive split gives it extra climbing authority. The Vertex 10W RTR is priced at $529.99.

Slider Kits for Builders

For hobbyists who prefer to choose their own electronics, the Vertex 10 Slider and Vertex 10 Wide Slider offer a pre-assembled chassis with an unpainted cab-only body and decals. Builders supply their own motor, ESC, radio, wheels, tires, and battery.

The standard Vertex 10 Slider is priced at $369.99, while the Vertex 10 Wide Slider comes in at $399.99. Both Slider kits feature the same carbon-fiber ladder frames, portal axles, and aluminum-bodied air-emulsion shocks as their RTR counterparts.

Specs and Pricing at a Glance

All four models share a 1:10 scale, 3 mm carbon-fiber chassis, and portal axles with high-clearance geometry. The standard Vertex 10 has a 204 mm hex-to-hex width and a 316 mm wheelbase, while the Wide versions stretch to 228 mm width and 330 mm wheelbase.

• Vertex 10 RTR: $499.99
• Vertex 10 Slider: $369.99
• Vertex 10W RTR: $529.99
• Vertex 10W Slider: $399.99

The Vertex 10W RTR comes with a Hobbywing 1700 KV brushless motor, a 60A programmable ESC, and an RTX-4C 4-channel radio system. It’s available in dark gray or electric green with a clipless body mounting system. The Slider versions include a pre-assembled chassis and an unpainted cab-only body, leaving the builder to supply the motor, ESC, radio, wheels, tires, and battery.

Availability

All four Vertex 10 models will launch simultaneously through Redcat authorized dealers and at RedcatRacing.com.

Avid has introduced two new front tires for carpet racing that skip the familiar break-in ritual. The Guardian V2 Slim Front and the Guardian 4WD Front are both designed for 2.2-inch wheels and are engineered to deliver peak performance from the very first lap.

Built on Racer Feedback

Based on input from drivers competing in Mod and 17.5 classes, Avid developed the Guardian V2 Slim Front to provide immediate pace without a break-in run while increasing high-speed and on-power steering. The company describes the V1’s steering character as “mellow” and the V2’s as “direct.” The V2 retains the smooth, linear turn-in of its predecessor but adds more mid-corner grip and more responsive steering from maintenance throttle through corner exit, all while aiming to extend tire life for consistent performance across multiple runs.

The Guardian 4WD Front builds on the V2 Slim Front architecture. According to Avid, many modern 4WD front tires have grown increasingly aggressive, but this tire was designed to deliver competitive lap times without the nervous handling that can make those alternatives harder to drive. A large outer sidewall smooths turn-in, while a low-profile carcass increases steering response through the corner.

Two Compounds for Different Track Conditions

Both tires are available in two compounds tailored for artificial surfaces.

For high-bite tracks such as office carpet or venues that allow traction compound, the A3 Medium Green compound prioritizes durability and is well-suited for extended practice sessions. On lower-grip surfaces—including CRC, Beach, and EOS-style carpets where traction compound is prohibited—the A4 Soft Red compound delivers maximum forward and steering grip. Avid notes that this softer compound trades faster wear for added performance.

Design Features

Several shared design details differentiate these tires from earlier models. One sidewall is enlarged and positioned toward the outside, which calms initial turn-in and improves mid-corner stability without making the tire feel nervous.

Rather than raised lettering, all sidewall branding is debossed. This prevents glue from cracking around the logos, eliminates the chance of logos catching carpet fibers, and makes the gluing process simpler.

The tires use larger, more tightly packed pins to maintain traction while increasing wear life. Full-width glue beads keep the tire from shifting during mounting, ensuring it runs true and without wobbling. The Guardian V2 includes medium scalloped open-cell foam inserts that provide center support without the harsh feel of a full-width insert; the scalloped pattern helps the tire conform to small carpet imperfections.

About Sidewall Glue

Avid says that on some high-bite tracks, these front tires can be used without sidewall glue thanks to the tire’s construction. The company suggests trying the first run without glue to see which feel the driver prefers. Some racers appreciate the increased steering and compliance, while others prefer the added stability that sidewall glue provides—especially on layouts where a jump lands directly into a corner.

“It only takes one run to find out which setup you prefer for your track/layout,” Avid states.

Pricing and Availability

Both tire models are available now. The Guardian V2 Slim Front 2.2″ Carpet Tire is listed under part numbers AV3001-V2-A3 (A3 Green) and AV3001-V2-A4 (A4 Red), each priced at $15.50. The Guardian 4WD Front 2.2″ Carpet Tire uses parts AV3002-A3 (A3 Green) and AV3002-A4 (A4 Red), each priced at $17.00.

The real Land Rover Defender 110 P400 X is a premium mid-tier trim that blends extreme off-road hardware with upscale luxury. Under the hood sits a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 395 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. It can sprint from 0-100 km/h in just 5.8 seconds, and its standard gear includes electronic air suspension, an active rear locking differential, and Land Rover’s Terrain Response 2 system. Inside, the cabin swaps utilitarian vinyl for Windsor leather and easy-to-clean Resist synthetic materials, anchored by an 11.4-inch Pivi Pro touchscreen and an available ClearSight digital rearview mirror.

Now GT Spirit has captured that SUV in 1:12 scale, and the result is every bit as imposing as the real thing.

A Massive Presence

This resin model is an absolute beast. It boasts a massive footprint and an incredibly commanding weight—typical of a solid resin piece. GT Spirit has executed the clean white exterior finish beautifully, pairing it with glossy black accents: a gloss black hood, darkened taillights, and orange brake calipers. The exterior delivers a combination of rugged and modern elements.

The cabin includes carpeting and flocking, fabric seatbelt details, and clear dashboard and center console components. GT Spirit’s focus on consistent workmanship at this price point is on display. The interior presents a tidy, well-made look.

Limited Edition Collectibility

According to retailer listings, this 1:12 scale model is a limited edition of just 999 pieces worldwide. It is made from high-quality resin and is sealed—no opening parts. The reference number is GT554, and the EAN is 9580010317011. The model represents the 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 P400 X-Dynamic HSE in white. For those who prefer a smaller footprint, GT Spirit also offers a 1:18 version in Pangea Green, but the 1:12 is the heavyweight.

Real-World Inspiration

The real Defender 110 P400 X stands out because of its standard off-road hardware: electronic air suspension, active rear locking differential, and Terrain Response 2. The P400 powertrain delivers linear, smooth power, while the cabin tech includes a ClearSight digital rearview mirror—practical when cargo or camping gear is stacked to the roof. Despite its boxy silhouette, the modern unibody architecture gives it a luxury-car ride. GT Spirit’s model faithfully reproduces the exterior and interior appearance, capturing the essence of that blend of capability and comfort.

Where to Find It

The model is available through several diecast retailers including Legacy Diecast, STM Diecast, AN Model Cars, and LIVECARMODEL.com. Each lists the same limited edition details, confirming the production run of 999 units. Pricing varies by retailer. The model’s large scale offers distinctive shelf presence.

Final Word

For collectors whose themes include modern SUVs or those building a 1:12 scale collection, the GT Spirit Land Rover Defender 110 P400X is a compelling piece. It offers a commanding presence that smaller scales cannot match, wrapped in a clean white finish with sharp black accents. Limited to 999 pieces worldwide, this model is a focused addition for any Land Rover enthusiast or large-scale collector—just make sure you have the shelf space.