KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Defender Octa features a 4.4 L Twin-Turbo V8, and Land Rover claims it to reach 0 to 100 Km in 4.0 seconds.
- Exterior updates include new wheels, extended wheel arches, new grille, and paint options.
- This vehicle starts at Rs 2.65 Cr and top model will cost Rs 2.85 Cr.
Land Rover presents the highly anticipated Defender Octa, a high-performance variant of the robust off-road SUV. At its heart lies a powerful 4.4 L Twin-Turbo V8, also found in performance SUVs like the Audi RS Q8, Porsche Cayenne Turbo, Mercedes Benz G63 and Land Rover Range Rover Sport SV Edition. Land Rover has set the price at Rs 2.65 Crore, with the Octa Edition One costing Rs 2.85 Crore.
This SUV will make its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, held from July 11th to 14th. The Defender Octa's highlights include two new paint options: Faroe Green and Petra Copper. Let's take a deep dive into the newest Land Rover, also join 91Wheels WhatsApp Groupto stay updated on the latest automotive news.
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What's New in the Defender Octa?
The upcoming Defender Octa promises enhanced performance both on and off-road. The British automaker has equipped it with a powerful 4.4 L Twin-Turbo V8 engine, producing 467 kW (626 PS) and 750 Nm of torque. Land Rover claims it will accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.0 seconds, thanks to its new launch control feature. Yes, the Defender Octa, known for exploring the unexplored, now comes with launch control.
Suspension of Defender Octa?
To further enhance its off-roading capabilities, Land Rover has reworked the chassis components and added the 6D Dynamics air suspension with pitch and roll control. This advanced suspension system minimizes roll during high-speed cornering, promoting both comfort and stability. Previously seen in the Range Rover Sport SE Edition, this suspension system is now featured in the Defender Octa.
The all-new Defender Octa is the perfect blend of extreme off-roading and serious performance. It aims to deliver a wilder experience than the Defender 110, taking the Defender badge to a whole new level.
What about the exterior of the Defender Octa?
To mark this special occasion, Land Rover made several changes to the exterior. This high-performance SUV features a newly designed, larger honeycomb grille for improved under-bonnet airflow. At the rear, it boasts a new bumper with a quad-exhaust system, promising a powerful exhaust note reminiscent of its rivals.
On the other hand, the biggest highlight of the exterior is the massive 88.32 cm diameter wheels, which give an imposing presence. Land Rover has also extended the wheel arches, elevating the road presence of this giant SUV to another stratosphere. Additionally, the wheels feature newly with a granite finish.
Additionally, this SUV offers two new premium metallic colors: Petra Copper and Faroe Green, along with Carpathian Grey and Charente Grey. Land Rover says the roof and tailgate will come in gloss Narvick Black, but customers can opt for a Matte Protective Film, which adds an extra layer of protection.
What about the interior of the Defender Octa?
The automaker has introduced new front performance seats with supportive bolsters and integrated headrests. Additionally, the Defender Octa features new Body and Soul seat audio technology, created in collaboration with SUBPAC and Coventry University. This innovative feature is being added to the Defender for the first time.
Who are the rivals of Defender Octa?
Now that the Defender Octa has entered the league of high-performance SUVs, it will compete head-to-head with the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, Mercedes-Benz G63, and its own sibling, the Land Rover Range Rover Sport SV. While its 0 to 100 km/h time may appear slower on paper, only time will tell how it performs in real-world scenarios.
The Defender Octa will start at Rs 2.65 Cr and will debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Online bookings will open soon. For further updates, stay tuned.
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Verdict
This all new varient is poised to enter the league of high-performance SUVs capable of extreme off-roading, redefining its luxury vehicle status. It represents a new chapter in the history of the Defender, and I'm excited to see how it will elevate the company to new heights.