Last year, we had the honor of attending the Land Rover Trek media event held in Texas (which we very nearly won). We were impressed by the Defender’s off-road performance, agility, and power and could not imagine then that the Defender needed more capability. Land Rover, always pushing the envelope, knew it could do even better and has unveiled its latest high-performance vehicle, the Defender Octa. This new model boasts dynamic capabilities both on and off-road, marking it as the most accomplished Defender to date. Powered by a 4.4-liter Twin Turbo mild-hybrid V8 engine, the Defender Octa delivers 635PS (“PferdStarke” = metric measurement of horsepower in German) and up to 750 newton-meters of torque, achieving 0-60mph in just 3.8 seconds. The introduction of 6D Dynamics suspension technology and heavily revised chassis components ensures superior handling and stability across various terrains.
The Defender Octa’s exterior features design updates, including an imposing stance, extended wheel arches, and redesigned bumpers for improved approach and departure angles. It also includes tough underbody protection, allowing it to navigate through up to one meter of water. Mark Cameron, Defender’s Managing Director, emphasizes the model’s combination of powerful performance, innovative technology, and luxurious finishes.
Named after the diamond, the hardest mineral on earth, the Defender Octa showcases a new signature graphic that highlights its strength and, Land Rover hopes, desirability. Each model features a distinctive encircled diamond graphic, with a gloss black diamond set in a machined and sandblasted titanium disc on the Signature Graphic panel.
Equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced features, the Defender Octa includes dedicated modes like the new Octa Mode, which enhances off-road performance, and innovative technologies such as ClearSight Ground View for improved visibility. The interior offers new Performance Seats with Body and Soul Seat technology, providing an immersive driving experience. The materials used are highly durable, with options for UltrafabricsTM PU and semi-aniline leather, ensuring both comfort and longevity. The seats are designed for optimal support and comfort, while the Body and Soul Seat technology, developed in collaboration with music industry experts SUBPAC and Coventry University, allows the driver and front passenger to feel and hear the music.
The Defender Octa’s powerful V8 engine achieves a top speed of 155mph and, Land Rover claims, is capable of exceptional performance across all terrains. Its 6D Dynamics suspension system virtually eliminates pitch and body roll on-road while maximizing wheel articulation off-road. Enhanced drive modes and a suite of familiar Terrain Response modes ensure that the vehicle can adapt to any driving condition.
The Defender Octa’s robust construction includes:
- Extended wheel arches;
- Off-road-optimized front bodywork;
- A unique grille design;
- A new rear bumper with a four-exit active exhaust system.
The vehicle’s color palette features exclusive new finishes like Petra Copper and Faroe Green, with further personalization options available. Inside, the Defender Octa Edition One offers a luxurious interior with curated selections of materials and finishes.
Order books for the new Defender OCTA will officially open soon, with an indicative price starting from approximately $189,000 (OTR, On The Road) in the UK. The exclusive New Defender OCTA Edition One, available during the first year of production, will be priced from around $209,000 (OTR) in the UK. We
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