The most powerful version of the Land Rover Defender is on its way with the ‘OCTA’ edition set to launch later this year. Powered by a Twin Turbo V8 Mild-hybrid engine, official power figures haven’t been shared by the brand just yet, but we’d expect similar numbers to the range-topping Range Rover Sport SV that offers 467kW (626hp) from its Twin-Turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine.
To match this grunt, the 6D Dynamics suspension system with pitch and roll control will be pinched from the Sport SV to offer the best of both worlds on- and off-road. From our experience in the V8-powered Defender, this will be a necessary and welcome addition to a chassis that suffers from fun, but excessive body roll. We had a chance to experience the suspension in the UK last year, and it will transform the vehicle.
Engineers can use software to maintain a near-level stance during acceleration, braking and cornering on-road, while also maximising independent wheel travel and articulation off-road.
“Defender has been synonymous with all-terrain capability with a bloodline tracing back to the Series 1 in 1948. New Defender OCTA will take this to another level, with a dramatic stance, innovative technology and unparalleled attention to detail with astounding performance and a bold new attitude,” said Mark Cameron, Managing Director, Defender.
RELATED: 2024 Land Rover Defender P400e Plug-in Hybrid is a Frugal Workhorse.
Outside of these technical changes to the engine and chassis, the brand is being very close-lipped about the other physical changes to the car. We know there will be significant design changes on the exterior, starting with a new logo (a gloss black diamond within a machined and sandblasted titanium disc) affixed to the side panels. Followed by new wheels, aggressive tyres, and brakes (appear to be pinched from Sport SV).
“The Defender OCTA name and signature graphic are representative of the vehicle’s strength, resilience and desirability – inspired by the vehicle’s diamond-like tough luxury credentials. The new signature graphic is particularly significant as it will be the first time it is seen on a Defender – and it will identify all flagship Defender models in the future,” adds Mark Cameron.
Ahead of its public reveal, the Defender OCTA is undergoing “the most exhaustive development regime in Defender history,” according to the brand. This includes testing in the snow and ice of Sweden to the Dubai desert, Nürburgring tarmac and Moab rock crawls. Clients will be invited to Defender Elements series previews to see the vehicle before it goes on sale.
Pricing, availability, and more specific information for the Australian market will be revealed closer to the launch. For reference, the current Defender V8 110 is priced at around $250,000 AUD drive-away, while the Range Rover Sport SV is priced from $360,800 AUD plus on-road costs. We wouldn’t expect any change from $400,000 if the Defender OCTA ever reaches Australian shores.
You’ll also like:
