New information about the Defender Octa – car and motoring updates

Land Rover is set to unveil the new, high-performance Defender Octa on July 3, following a series of client preview events. This new model, known as the toughest and most capable Defender ever, will be showcased to potential customers in seven global locations before being revealed to the general public.

Earlier this year, Land Rover confirmed the production of the Octa, a high-performance version of the Defender named after the shape of a diamond. Promised to be the most rugged, capable, and luxurious Defender to date, the Octa will sit at the top of the Defender range. It will be powered by a twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine and equipped with advanced suspension technology.

Most of the components in the Octa are borrowed from the Range Rover Sport SV, including the BMW-derived V8 petrol engine that generates 635hp. The 4.4-litre engine will drive all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic gearbox. Additionally, the car will feature 6D air suspension technology to reduce rolling and pitching during driving, enhancing off-road performance, and all-terrain tires as standard. High-performance Brembo brakes will also be included in the package.

Land Rover has conducted extensive testing on the Octa, including high-speed driving at the Nürburgring Nordschleife and off-road testing in various locations worldwide. After completing more than 13,960 tests beyond the standard Defender testing regime, the car is now ready to be showcased to the public.

The launch tour will comprise seven preview events held in different locations, inviting prospective buyers from the UK, Germany, Italy, USA, Dubai, and Japan. These events will offer customers a sneak peek at the Octa before the official public unveiling on July 3.

Managing director for Defender models at Land Rover, Mark Cameron, expressed his excitement for the launch, stating that the Defender Octa will be synonymous with mastering epic adventures in heightened luxury. The upcoming events will give clients a taste of the iconic Defender DNA in an authentic and original manner, setting the stage for unforgettable adventures with the Octa.