Land Rover Defender Octa Announced, Starting at Rs 2.65 Cr – Up To 626bhp, 800Nm

The Land Rover Defender has long been a symbol of rugged off-roading capability and durability. Recently, Land Rover unveiled the Defender Octa, the most powerful and luxurious version of the Defender lineup to date. This new model is powered by a 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 engine, replacing the older 5.0L Supercharged unit. Here’s a detailed look at what makes the Defender Octa stand out.

Historical Context

The Land Rover Defender has a storied history dating back to its inception in 1948. Originally designed for agricultural and utility purposes, the Defender quickly became a favorite among off-road enthusiasts and adventurers. Over the decades, it has evolved to incorporate modern technologies while retaining its iconic design and rugged capabilities. The introduction of the Defender Octa marks a significant milestone in this evolution, combining high performance with luxury.

Key Features of the Land Rover Defender Octa

• Name and Inspiration: The name “Octa” is inspired by diamonds, symbolizing both toughness and luxury, much like the Defender itself.
• Pricing: The Defender Octa is priced at Rs 2.65 crore (Ex-showroom) in India, with a more exclusive Edition One available for Rs 2.85 crore (Ex-showroom).
• Exclusive Features: The Edition One features a unique Faroe Green exterior, Khaki and Ebony seamless knit Ultrafabrics for upholstery, 20-inch forged alloy wheels, and chopped Carbon Fibre elements.
• Design and Build: The Octa boasts 33-inch tires, extended wheel arches, new front and rear bumpers, and a metallic multi-panel bash plate for underbody protection. It also features a quad exhaust setup.
• Roof and Tailgate: All Octa models come with a Narvick Black roof and tailgate.
• Suspension and Brakes: The Octa introduces a hydraulically interlinked 6D Dynamics semi-active suspension setup and 400mm front brakes with Brembo calipers.
• Water Wading Capability: The vehicle can wade through water up to 1 meter deep.
• Interior: The Edition One includes chopped Carbon Fibre trims and Ultrafabric PU options. Both versions feature new Performance Seats and Body and Soul audio technology.
• Performance: The new 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 engine delivers up to 626 bhp and 800 Nm of torque (750 Nm standard), with a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 4 seconds.
• Technological Enhancements: The Octa includes enhanced drive modes (Comfort, Dynamic, and Octa), off-road launch control, switchable traction control, off-road ABS, Clear-Sight Ground View, and Terrain Response Modes (Sand, Mud and Ruts, Grass Gravel Snow, and Rock Crawl).

Competitive Landscape

The Defender Octa will compete with other luxury off-roaders like the Mercedes-Benz G Class and Lexus LX. It will make its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, with bookings opening soon.

Statements from Land Rover

• Mark Cameron, Managing Director, Defender: “With New Defender OCTA we have been able to unlock the full potential of Defender. It is the very definition of breadth of capability, and a testament to what we can achieve utilising the very best technologies and talents within our engineering division.”
• Jamal Hameedi, Director of SVO, Jaguar Land Rover: “Our high-performance experts have achieved the impossible with Defender OCTA, working tirelessly over the past three years to create the most capable Defender ever made – regardless of which surface it is enjoyed on.”

Summary

• Historical Significance: Evolution of the Defender from a utility vehicle to a luxury off-roader.
• Pricing: Starts at Rs 2.65 crore, with an exclusive Edition One at Rs 2.85 crore.
• Engine: New 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8, replacing the 5.0L Supercharged unit.
• Design: Features 33-inch tires, extended wheel arches, and a quad exhaust setup.
• Interior: Exclusive trims and advanced audio technology.
• Performance: Up to 626 bhp and 800 Nm torque, 0-100 km/h in 4 seconds.
• Technological Features: Enhanced drive modes, off-road capabilities, and advanced suspension.
• Competitive Landscape: Competes with Mercedes-Benz G Class and Lexus LX.
• Launch: Debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed, bookings to commence soon.