Key Takeaways
- The Land Rover Defender OCTA features a BMW-sourced 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, producing 626 hp, making it the most powerful factory-produced Defender.
- The new model includes an intelligent suspension system, performance seats with “body and soul” technology, and bolder exterior styling.
- The Defender OCTA aims to compete with the Mercedes-AMG G63, with prices starting at $152,000, making it the most expensive Defender yet.
Land Rover has taken its rugged Defender model to the next level, with a new variant called the OCTA. The Land Rover Defender OCTA arrives sporting a BMW-sourced twin-turbocharged V8, producing 626 hp. That makes this the most powerful Defender ever produced by the factory, besting the old supercharged V8 model by 133 hp. Not only is this the most potent (and quickest) Defender, it also boasts a new performance-focused OCTA Mode, which is specifically designed for off-roading.
Other highlights include a new intelligent suspension system with 6D dynamics, new performance seats with “body and soul” technology, and bolder exterior styling. With these new upgrades, Land Rover has aimed the Defender squarely at the Mercedes-AMG G63. Does the newest Rover have what it takes to take down the G-Wagen?
“Our high-performance experts have achieved the impossible with Defender OCTA, working tirelessly over the past three years to create the most capable Defender ever made – regardless of which surface it is enjoyed on. They have re-engineered components throughout the vehicle to ensure Defender OCTA is the perfect companion for epic adventures.”
M Power, Rover Rugged
The Defender OCTA shares its engine with the Range Rover Sport SV, that being a 4.4-liter twin-turbo mild-hybrid V8 from the BMW M Division. It delivers 626 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, which Land Rover says can shove the OCTA to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds with Dynamic Launch Mode, just two-tenths off the pace of the Range Rover Sport SV. Power goes out to all-wheel-drive via an eight-speed automatic transmission with high and low-range. With the 22-inch wheels and all-season tires, it can do 155 mph. 15.7-inch front brake discs with six-piston Brembo calipers help bring this beast down to a halt, and a quicker steering ratio (the quickest ever for a Defender) helps it deliver quick responses.
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This trim introduces hydraulically-interlinked 6D Dynamics suspension for the first time on a Defender (introduced for the Range Rover Sport SV). This system uses height-adjustable air springs and hydraulic dampers that can control pitch. Land Rover also beefed up the suspension components, including the wishbones and dampers. The OCTA sits 1.1 inches higher than a standard Defender, meaning it should tower over a G-Wagen, and the body is 2.7 inches wider than the standard model.
Press OCTA Mode For More Fun
Land Rover says the Defender OCTA can automatically detect what surface it’s driving over, and change the drive modes accordingly. In addition to Comfort Mode and Dynamic Mode, a new OCTA Mode can be accessed by long-pressing a button on the steering wheel. OCTA mode enables an off-road launch control system and engages a special ABS calibration tuned to stopping on loose surfaces. The 6D Dynamics enables greater wheel articulation and superior comfort when off-roading at high speeds.
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The familiar Terrain Response Modes return with Sand, Mud and Ruts, Grass Gravel Snow, and Rock Crawl settings. There is also a ClearSight Ground View, which makes the hood invisible to better spot obstacles.
OCTA Aggressive Styling
To match the immense performance, Land Rover made the OCTA the most aggressive-looking Defender yet. It rides on available 33-inch Goodyear Advance All-Terrain tires, the largest fitted to a production Defender. To fit the wheels, the Defender gets extended wheel arches. Other visual changes include optimized off-road body work, including a unique grille that allows more under-hood airflow, a rear bumper with quad-exit exhaust, underbody protection, and Phosphor Bronze recovery hooks.
Two new paint colors are exclusive to the OCTA: Petra Copper and Faroe Green. Carpathian Grey and Charente Grey are also available, all with a contrasting roof and tailgate in Narvik Black. An optional matte protective film is available for protection and a unique look. Buyers who want Faroe Green will need to opt for the one-year-only OCTA Edition One, which also comes with Chopped Carbon Fiber details.
Defender Meets Racer
Inside, the OCTA retains the Defender’s unique blend of simplicity and luxury, now mixed with a hint of performance. Front row passengers sit in new performance seats with integrated headrests and more aggressive bolsters. Buyers can have the interior wrapped in one of two durable Ultrafrabrics or semi-aniline leather. A Body and Soul Seat was developed by SUBPAC and Coventry University, allowing the music to be felt and not just heard.
Pricing for the Defender OCTA starts at $152,000, making it the most expensive Defender yet, but still $31,000 less than a G63. The Edition One will only be available for the first model year, starting at $167,800. You can see the Defender OCTA make its public debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed from July 11 to July 14.