The current generation Defender is a pretty cool looking machine. It’s street cred has now been given a shot of adrenaline as the Land Rover Defender Octa is introduced. This is the most focussed, performance-orientated version to ever wear the Defender badge.

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Most Powerful

The Land Rover Defender Octa is the most powerful variant in the line-up. A twin-turbocharged 4,4-litre V8 powers the Octa. In addition, the petrol unit has a mild hybrid component. The net result is a peak power of 467 kW and 800 N.m of torque. The latter figure is available in ‘launch’ mode. In regular running the engine delivers 750 N.m of twist effort. An eight-speed automatic transmission directs power to all four wheels. Additionally, the transmission features high- and low-range. Thanks to the aforementioned launch mode, the Octa can sprint from rest to 100 km/h in four seconds flat. It’s top speed is quoted as 250 km/h. The Octa maintains the Defender’s go-anwyhere capability. The brand’s familiar Terrain Response modes remain, with specific calibrations for Sand, Mud and Ruts, Grass Gravel Snow, and Rock Crawl.

Click here to read our review of the entry level Defender.

Bespoke Appearance

The Octa can be differentiated from the outside by a number of markers. The first is the 28 mm higher and 68 mm wider stance. In part this comes from the 33-inch tyres fitted on light alloy rims. The larger wheels have called for wider wheel arches. Other changes include unique grille designs, a new rear bumper with four exhaust pipes, underbody protection including an aluminium alloy front under shield.

Land Rover Defender Octa Pricing

Indicative pricing of the Octa is around the R3,5m mark. The price places it up there with the likes of the Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid, with the Defender likely to go further off-road than the Cayenne. However, the Brit is far cheaper than the Lamborghini Urus and the Merc-AMG G63.