Land Rover Defender Octa Confirmed For July 3 Global Reveal with a Twin-Turbo V8 Engine

On July 3 this year, Land Rover will unveil its 'high-performance, all-terrain' machine – the Defender Octa. As known, it will be the most powerful Defender with a twin-turbocharged, mild-hybrid V8 engine. We expect this to be a 4.4-litre V8 unit sourced from BMW. While Land Rover has yet to reveal the model's exact output, here are the power and torque figures of the 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 used in the Range Rover lineup: 626bhp and 800Nm of peak torque. Moreover, 0 to 100km/h takes a claimed time of 3.8 seconds. 

Following a teaser in late March, a fresh set of preview images have emerged. It shows the plug-in hybrid Octa being subjected to "the most extreme testing and development programme in Defender history". The programme covered the testing of the Defender Octa on all types of terrain, from Germany's Nurburgring Nordschleife to Moab rock crawls in Utah, USA, not to mention the Michelin Technical Innovation Centre Test Circuit in Ladoux, France. In all, the Octa is said to have undergone more than 13,960 additional tests, on top of the standard Defender testing regime.

Also Read: Land Rover Defender Octa Teased, to be the Most Powerful Version Yet with a Twin-Turbo V8 Engine

Land Rover Defender Octa: Suspension

Like the Range Rover Sport SV, the Defender Octa will come with Land Rover's 6D Dynamics suspension system, which is said to give an unparalleled breadth of capability, comfort, and composure, whether on-road or off-road. The technology – a combination of hydraulic interlinked dampers, height-adjustable air springs, and pitch control – will allow the Octa to 'maintain a near-level stance during acceleration, braking, and cornering on-road'. It additionally helps with independent wheel travel and articulation while off-roading. 

Land Rover Defender Octa: Other Key Details

According to Land Rover, the name Octa draws inspiration from the octahedron shape of a diamond, which is the hardest naturally occurring substance on earth. The Defender Octa will set itself apart from other models with a 'new encircled diamond graphic', stamped both inside and out. This includes a Gloss Black diamond-inspired badge on the exterior signature graphic panel. On the inside, there is an illuminated diamond badge placed on the steering wheel. The vehicle will also have bespoke Brembo brakes wearing the same Octa diamond badge, something which is also stamped on the steering wheel. 

Also Read: Land Rover Defender Pacific Blue Edition Debuts in Australia with Sliding Panoramic Glass Roof, and More

Land Rover will reveal the Defender Octa on July 3. Also, it is encouraging interested clients to register for one of seven 'Defender Elements' preview events in private locations around the world – from the UK, Germany and Italy in Europe, to the United States, Dubai and Japan.