Maximilian Stocker
The Land Rover Defender itself already stands for extreme robustness and off-road capability. The G-Class from Mercedes and the Jeep Wrangler do the same. Both manufacturers also offer ultra-performance versions of the models. Jeep’s Rubicon 392 has a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 with 476 hp. Mercedes equips its AMG G 63 with a 585-hp V8 mild hybrid beast. Land Rover is now going one step further and equipping the Defender Octa with a 4.4-liter biturbo V8 from BMW with 635 hp and 750 Newton meters of torque. In the so-called “launch mode” even 800 Nm are possible. The sprint from zero to 100 km/h takes 4.0 seconds. A maximum of 250 km/h is possible when the English car is equipped with 22-inch and all-weather tires. An eight-speed automatic transmission with low-range gearing is available for power transmission. The model name “Octa” does not refer to the eight-cylinder engine, but to the octahedral shape of a diamond. According to Land Rover, the gemstone is intended to symbolize strength and resilience.
Higher and wider with 33 inch off-road tires
In order to make the best possible use of the performance, there is a new chassis called “6D Dynamics” with hydraulically connected dampers. Extensive optimizations can also be found in the hardware and geometry. The body was raised by 28 millimeters. Together with the 68 millimeter wider track, this ensures more ground clearance and stability. In addition, the manufacturer has installed modified suspension components, such as longer and harder wishbones or active shock absorbers with separate pressure accumulators. The top model also has 400 mm brake discs with Brembo calipers. The fording depth increases to a new peak value of 1,000 millimeters. For technically demanding off-road maneuvers, the driver can use the “Terrain Response Modes” “Grass”, “Gravel”, “Snow”, “Mud”, “Sand” and “Rock” with special calibrations at the touch of a button. Other assistance systems also provide support, such as the “ClearSight Ground View”, which makes the hood virtually transparent and thus ensures better visibility and greater safety off paved roads.
Land Rover not only worked on the underside of the sheet metal, but also adjusted the look. The huge 33-inch off-road tires from Goodyear, which were specially developed for the Defender Octa, immediately catch the eye. In order to get them under the wheel arches, they had to be enlarged and widened. There is also a new apron with improved ramp and slope angles. The air intake was also enlarged to ensure better airflow towards the engine. At the rear there is also a new bumper with an active pair of double tailpipes. The underbody is protected from damage by an aluminum alloy guard. There are exposed towing eyes at the front and rear, which round off the off-road look. Accessories such as a cable winch can be installed as an option.
New materials for the interior
The interior is upholstered in lush leather as standard. Hard-wearing “Ultrafabrics” can also be ordered on request, which are also 30 percent lighter than conventional leather. This is used to cover the new performance seats with improved upholstery and integrated headrests. The seats also enable a multi-dimensional listening experience thanks to the so-called “Body and Soul” audio technology. “Wellness functions” provide additional comfort.
Orders for the new Land Rover Defender Octa will start at the end of July 2024. Prices in Germany start at 185,300 euros.
© Motorsport Magazine