Defender OCTA: Land Rover’s Most Powerful Twin-Turbo V8 SUV Unveiled
Land Rover’s most powerful and advanced Defender yet.
The Defender OCTA, with its unique and unparalleled features, represents the most capable and performance-oriented model in the Defender lineup.
Developed by Land Rover’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division, it combines a twin-turbocharged V8 mild-hybrid engine with advanced suspension and chassis systems.
The OCTA delivers maximum power on the road while maintaining full off-road performance.
It is based on the Defender 110 body style and includes substantial upgrades to structure, drivetrain, and interior specification.
Powertrain and Performance
- Engine: 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 with 48-volt mild-hybrid system
- Output: 626 hp (635 PS) and 750 Nm of torque
- Dynamic Launch torque peak: 800 Nm (short bursts)
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic with high- and low-range transfer case
- 0–100 km/h: 4.0 seconds
- Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph)
The twin-turbo V8 delivers consistent power and strong low-end torque, supported by an upgraded cooling system, reinforced driveline, and heavy-duty shafts to handle the increased load.
Suspension and Dynamics
The Defender OCTA uses a new suspension system called 6D Dynamics, developed to improve stability and comfort on any surface.
It uses hydraulic connections between the dampers to keep the vehicle level during acceleration, braking, and cornering, reducing body movement without making the ride stiff.
Off-road, the system allows the wheels to move more freely, maintaining traction on uneven ground.
Compared with the standard Defender 110:
- Ride height: 28 mm higher
- Track width: 68 mm wider
- Ground clearance: 323 mm
- Approach angle: 40.2°
- Departure angle: 42.8°
- Breakover angle: 29°
- Maximum wading depth: 1 m
These changes provide greater control on-road and improved capability in deep water, mud, or rocky terrain.
Exterior Design
The OCTA features a dedicated exterior identity distinct from other Defender models.
- OCTA badging on the grille and tailgate
- Gloss Black upper and lower grilles
- Front and rear bumpers in textured Graphite Atlas finish
- Phosphor Bronze Defender lettering and recovery eyes
- 22-inch forged alloy wheels (optional 23-inch)
- Matrix LED headlights with signature DRL
- Quad exhaust outlets with black ceramic finish
Its wider stance, raised body, and redesigned bumpers emphasize performance and functionality while maintaining Defender’s signature proportions.
Interior and Features
Inside, the OCTA combines Defender’s functional design with high-grade materials and comfort features.
- 14-way heated and cooled front seats with memory
- Semi-aniline leather or Kvadrat™ textile upholstery
- Electrically adjustable steering column
- Illuminated metal treadplates with “DEFENDER” script
- Configurable ambient lighting
- Cabin Air Purification Plus and air quality monitoring
- Three-zone climate control
- Edge-illuminated paddle shifters
- Steering wheel mode selector: short press for Dynamic Mode, long press for OCTA Mode
Technology and Assistance Systems
Standard systems include:
- 3D Surround Camera and 360° Parking Aid
- Wade Sensing
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Blind Spot Assist
- Lane Keep Assist
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Hill Launch Assist
- Dynamic Stability Control and Roll Stability Control
- All Terrain Progress Control (ATPC)
Infotainment is managed by Pivi Pro, offering navigation, voice control, smartphone integration, and over-the-air updates.
Editions and Pricing
The Defender OCTA is offered in two main variants:
- OCTA (standard specification)
- OCTA Edition One – launch version with unique paint finishes, trim options, and wheel design
Indicative European pricing: from €163,000, depending on market and configuration.
Specification Summary
| Specification | Data |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 MHEV |
| Power | 635 PS (626 hp) |
| Torque | 750 Nm (800 Nm Dynamic Launch) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| 0–100 km/h | 4.0 s |
| Top Speed | 250 km/h |
| Ground Clearance | 323 mm |
| Wading Depth | 1 m |
| Starting Price (EU) | from €163,000 |
Conclusion
The Defender OCTA combines the brand’s off-road heritage with modern performance engineering.
Its twin-turbo V8, widened chassis, and new suspension technology make it the most potent and controlled Defender ever produced.
The model marks Land Rover’s entry into the high-performance off-road segment while preserving the Defender’s essential durability and versatility.
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