Meet the Land Rover Defender Octa: The 626-HP Challenger to Raptors and TRXs
Tired of the same old SUV offerings? Meet the Land Rover Defender Octa, a beast that's not just a nod to British engineering but a compelling competitor to the Raptors of the world. After years of tease, this highly-anticipated model is set to redefine the limits of performance and off-road capabilities.
Revamped Powerhouse
At the heart of the Defender Octa lies a BMW-sourced twin-turbo 4.4-liter mild-hybrid V8. Out goes the old supercharged AJ 5.0-liter V8, making way for this engineering marvel that also powers the new Range Rover and Range Rover Sport. It delivers a staggering 626 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque, channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission equipped with a low-range gearbox. This setup propels the Octa from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds, and it can top out at a blistering 155 mph when equipped with the right wheels and tires.
Design Tweaks and Utility Boosts
Visually, the Octa stands out with a wider stance, now 2.7 inches broader, making it a commanding presence both on and off the road. It's also been elevated by 1.1 inches, allowing for deeper wading capabilitiesāup to 3.3 feet of water, to be precise. The design includes unique features like a new grille, quad exhaust tips, carbon-fiber bits, a redesigned bumper, and bronze accents. Amber and red marker lights add a touch of flair, ensuring this isn't your average Defender.
Advanced Suspension and Off-Road Mastery
To match its power, the Octa features a revised suspension system comprising longer, tougher wishbones and an active damper setup. Borrowed from the Range Rover Sport SV, Land Rover's 6D Dynamics suspension system uses a network of hydraulically-interlinked semi-active dampers, effectively eliminating pitch and body roll. Brembo brakes with 15.7-inch discs and six-piston calipers at the front ensure impeccable stopping power.
The Octa has several driving modes, including a unique 'Octa mode,' crafted for high-speed desert runs, akin to the Ford Raptors, Chevy Bisons, and Ram TRXs. Traditional Land Rover off-road modes like Sand, Mud and Ruts, Grass Gravel Snow, and Rock Crawl come standard.
Exquisite Interiors
The interior, while similar to the standard Defender, offers unique flourishes and advanced features. Edition Ones boast a two-tone Khaki and Ebony color scheme, enhanced by distinctive elements like performance seats with superior bolstering and new headrests. The front seats come with Land Rover's Body and Soul Seat audio system, a quirky addition that amplifies the auditory experience for front seat passengers.
Personalization Options
Customization options abound. Exclusive colors like Petra Copper and Faroe Green set the Edition One apart, while standard colors include Carpathian Grey and Charente Grey. Each Octa features a contrasting roof and tailgate in gloss Narvik Black, and factory-applied matte protective films for added style and durability are available.
Price and Availability
Ready to own one of these beasts? The Defender Octa starts at $152,000, with the more exclusive Edition One priced at $167,800. The Octa will make its grand public debut at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed from July 11-14, so mark your calendars.