Defender, as you know, is one of the most successful and most selling off-roader SUV right now in the market. And this Octa adds on more shining feathers to the already Shining Crown of Defender. It is the most powerful Defender ever. This Defender has the largest wheel, the largest brake, most capability, most varying depth, and also the most dynamic Defender ever.
The name “Octa” is inspired by an eight-sided diamond, symbolizing strength and durability—an ideal match for this rugged machine. Land Rover has developed the Octa to be a standout gem in its lineup.
Powertrain and Engineering Excellence: We have driven the Octa through forests and off-road terrain to see how it compares with the regular Defender. Many people have asked how it stands up to the Mercedes G-Wagon, especially after our coverage of the electric G580. While both vehicles have their own strengths, the Octa is focused on high-performance gasoline power, unlike the electric G580. It features a BMW-sourced V8 engine producing 635 hp and 750 Nm of torque, enhanced with a mild hybrid system. Paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and an advanced all-wheel-drive system, the Octa is engineered for power and durability. It has been tested in extreme environments—from icy Sweden to the deserts of Dubai and the mountains of Namibia—to prove its strength in all conditions.
Serious Off-Road Hardware: The Defender Octa gets significant upgrades over the standard Defender. It features 20-inch wheels with 33-inch BFGoodrich off-road tires and an optional 22-inch setup with road-focused rubber. The track width is increased, and it gets bigger brakes to handle higher speeds and rougher terrains. The advanced 6D Dynamics suspension system, developed with input from sports car engineers, actively controls pitch and roll of the vehicle. In Octa Mode, the SUV transforms, allowing for aggressive off-road or rally-style driving. On open roads, we pushed it past 200 km/h, and it remained incredibly stable and composed, which is rare for a vehicle of this size and weight.
Design and Exterior: The Octa retains the Defender’s iconic shape but with key visual updates. A new octagonal diamond badge appears on the C-pillar, symbolizing its distinct identity. Wider fender flares accommodate the larger wheels, and there are striking matte paint options like Ferroe Green and Petra Copper, protected with a durable satin film for off-road resistance. Carbon fiber accents on the bonnet and front fascia, along with pronounced tow hooks and a refreshed grille, give it an assertive stance. The signature rear-mounted spare wheel remains, enhancing its rugged character.
Premium Functionality Inside the Cabin: Step inside the Octa and you’ll find a perfect balance of luxury and practicality. The new bucket-style seats offer better lateral support and bolstering, keeping you secure during dynamic driving. The upholstery uses a mix of khaki and ebony materials with a durable, leather-like finish, blending premium feel with rugged utility. A standout feature is the glass-tipped paddle shifters that glow in different colors depending on the drive mode. The Octa is also equipped with a powerful audio system, a panoramic sunroof, and all the tech you’d expect in a high-end SUV.
Off-Road Capabilities: The Octa truly comes into its own off-road. We navigated steep climbs, rocky trails, and water-filled routes without breaking a sweat. It boasts a 1-meter water wading depth—10 cm more than the regular Defender—thanks to its larger tires and higher clearance. Improved approach, breakover, and departure angles make it more capable on tricky terrain. Multiple terrain modes—Mud and Ruts, Sand, Snow, and Rock Crawl—adjust the suspension, throttle, and traction systems for optimal performance. The Octa also includes rear-wheel steering for tight maneuvers and a full 360-degree camera system with hill descent control, enhancing safety and ease of use for all types of drivers.
Rally-Ready Handling with Everyday Comfort: Inspired by Dakar-level off-road performance, the Octa’s 6D Dynamics suspension actively reduces body roll and pitch under hard cornering and braking. On twisty roads, switching to Dynamic or Octa mode sharpens the vehicle’s response, giving it the feel of a much smaller performance SUV. Despite its size and height, the Octa corners flat, and the ride remains surprisingly comfortable. Strong braking performance and firm, precise steering complete the package, delivering confidence whether you’re blasting through trails or cruising at high speeds.
A Defender Like No Other: Overall, the Defender Octa combines raw power, luxury, and serious off-road chops into one cohesive, high-performance SUV. It pushes the limits of what an off-road vehicle can be without sacrificing comfort, style, or drivability. Whether you’re adventuring deep into the wild or carving corners on tarmac, the Octa delivers a thrilling, versatile experience. It’s not just an evolution of the Defender—it’s a bold new chapter.
