Land Rover Defender Octa will be equipped with a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine
Land Rover enthusiasts have something to look forward to later this year with the anticipated debut of the Defender Octa. Set to be the first in a line-up of Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) “Octa” models, this new variant promises to bring a mix of power, performance and durability to the Defender range.
Initially designed to revive the SVX brand, the decision to opt for the “Octa” badge signals a new direction for the top-of-the-range Defender models. The name itself is inspired by the octahedral shape of a diamond, symbolizing strength and resilience, attributes suitable for a vehicle known for its robust capacity.
Under the hood, the Defender Octa is expected to have a 4.4-liter V8 engine, different from the supercharged ‘AJ’ unit found in existing 8-cylinder Defender models. It’s a BMW-sourced engine seen in several iterations of the Range Rover, including the Sport SV. This twin-turbo V8 engine produces 618 hp and 800 Nm of torque in the Range Rover Sport SV and goes from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds.
Further enhancing its dynamic capabilities, the Defender Octa will inherit the “6D Dynamic” suspension system from the Range Rover Sport SV. This advanced system, which hydraulically links the shock absorbers to control pitch and roll, ensures optimal wheel articulation without compromising comfort or stability on the road.
Rigorous testing in a variety of terrains is currently underway, from the icy landscapes of Sweden to the scorching deserts of Dubai.
Visually, the Octa is distinguished by custom Brembo brakes, adorned with the special Octa diamond logo, hinting at its track-worthy potential. Inside, the emblematic logo finds its place on the steering wheel and on the side luggage supports, reinforcing the model’s exclusive status within the Defender line.
