A New Defender Is Coming With More Power Than Ever
The Defender sub-brand is host to some of the most capable off-road SUV offerings on sale today. But, the Land Rover spin-off isn’t done growing the lineup yet. The automaker has a new Defender model coming, and it released its first teaser for it on Tuesday. While we don’t have full details about the range-topping model quite yet, we do know that it will be called "Octa," and it will arrive with twin-turbocharged V-8 power by the end of 2024.
The Octa nameplate is inspired by an octahedral diamond, with unique graphics throughout making reference to the treasured good. According to the folks at Defender, this upcoming model will be the most powerful SUV to wear the iconic name yet.
It's unclear which twin-turbocharged V-8 engine the brand has selected to power the 110-based vehicle, but we do know it will be backed by a mild-hybrid system. Considering the Defender V8 Carpathian Edition and its 5.0-liter V-8 provide the current model with 518 hp, expect the Octa to easily surpass that figure.
The truck will also receive a number of chassis upgrades to cope with the added power, including a set of Brembo brakes from the Range Rover’s 6D Dynamic suspension package. This setup combines hydraulic interlinked dampers and air shocks at all four corners, which allow for precise roll and body control in performance and off-road scenarios. It also brings the benefit of increased wheel travel, similar to AMG’s Active Ride Control system found on the 2025 G63 models.
Based on the teaser images provided by JLR, it also appears that the Octa will come equipped with wider bodywork, likely the result of flared arches. Inside, the brand promises this will be the most luxurious Defender model yet, so expect trimmings you might traditionally find in the Range Rover catalog. The Octa looks prepped to take on the G Wagen at its own game, leaving that farm implement heritage further behind than ever before.
We don’t know exactly when the all-new Defender Octa will arrive, but the brand plans to continue testing before its 2024 debut. The truck is slated to visit locations such as Sweden, Dubai, Utah, and even the Nürburgring over the next few months as development continues. Customers who are already sold on the idea of this range-topper can reach out to their local Land Rover dealers. Exclusive preview events are slated for later this year.
You Might Also Like
