Land Rover has unleashed its most powerful Defender ever with the introduction of the Defender OCTA variant, a premium twin-turbo V8 flagship that commands attention both on tarmac and trails. This high-performance SUV represents the pinnacle of Defender engineering, combining luxury appointments with serious off-road capabilities.
Performance and Powertrain
The heart of the Defender OCTA beats with a BMW M5-sourced 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, enhanced by a 48V mild-hybrid system that delivers an impressive 467kW of power and 750Nm of torque. This powerplant, also found in the Range Rover Sport SV, propels the OCTA from 0-100km/h in just 4.0 seconds, making it the fastest-accelerating Defender in the model’s history.
Power transmission occurs through an eight-speed automatic gearbox featuring high and low range capabilities, while massive 400mm Brembo brake discs ensure stopping power matches the acceleration prowess.
Advanced Suspension Technology
Built on the Defender 110 platform, the OCTA introduces the revolutionary 6D Dynamics suspension system, previously debuted on the Range Rover Sport SV. This innovative setup replaces traditional anti-roll bars with a hydraulic circuit, significantly reducing body pitch and roll during acceleration and braking scenarios.
The suspension setup positions the OCTA 28mm higher than standard Defenders while providing a 68mm wider stance, creating an imposing road presence that’s unmistakably aggressive.
Off-Road Enhancements
The OCTA’s off-road credentials extend beyond raw power, featuring active dampers, the fastest steering ratio ever fitted to a Defender, and an exclusive OCTA Mode. This performance-focused off-road setting includes specially calibrated anti-lock braking and launch control systems designed for challenging terrain.
Australian Market Details
| Specification | Defender OCTA | Edition One |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $291,542 | $317,592 |
| Engine | 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 + 48V Mild-Hybrid | 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 + 48V Mild-Hybrid |
| Power Output | 467kW / 750Nm | 467kW / 750Nm |
| 0-100km/h | 4.0 seconds | 4.0 seconds |
| Delivery Timeline | March 2025 | March 2025 |
| Exclusive Features | Petra Copper Paint | Carbon Fiber Details, Faroe Green Paint |
All prices listed before on-road costs
Australian customers can place orders soon, with deliveries scheduled to commence in March 2025. The OCTA positions itself strategically between the $240,000 Defender 130 P500 and the $363,561 Mercedes-AMG G 63, offering compelling value in the ultra-premium SUV segment.
Design and Aesthetics
The OCTA’s exterior showcases distinctive design elements including 33-inch all-terrain tyres, revised grille designs, and a new rear bumper housing quad exhaust outlets. Underbody protection and exposed Phosphor Bronze-finished recovery points emphasize its serious off-road intentions.
Two exclusive paint options – Petra Copper and Faroe Green – are available, with the latter coming standard on Edition One models. All variants feature contrast roofing and tailgates finished in gloss Narvik Black.
Interior Luxury
Inside, the OCTA receives premium treatment with performance seats featuring ‘immersive’ audio technology and choice of materials including standard Burnt Sienna leather, optional Ebony leather, or Light Cloud and Lunar fabric options. Edition One models showcase duo-tone Khaki and Ebony fabric with carbon fiber accents throughout.
The flagship SUV maintains compliance with Australian Design Rules and is expected to undergo ANCAP safety assessment following its market introduction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the Defender OCTA be available in Australia?
A: Australian deliveries are scheduled to begin in March 2025, with order books opening soon.
Q: How does the OCTA compare to other premium SUVs?
A: Priced between the Defender 130 P500 ($240K) and Mercedes-AMG G 63 ($363K), it offers unique performance positioning.
Q: What makes the Edition One special?
A: Limited-run Edition One features exclusive carbon fiber details, Faroe Green paint, and premium duo-tone interior finishes.
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