A fresh addition to the Defender family aims to establish a new benchmark for opulence and performance in the realm of 4×4 vehicles – causing Mercedes G-Wagen owners to shed tears in the shopping center parking lot.
The brand-new Defender OCTA, built upon the foundation of the Defender 110 but with a more striking and rugged design, presents itself with an imposing presence. Drawing inspiration from the geometry of a diamond, one of the earth’s toughest and most coveted minerals, this vehicle features a stealthy yet luxurious styling package. It has undergone rigorous testing, including almost 14,000 trials covering laps on Germany’s Nürburgring circuit and rock crawling in Utah. The results have been nothing short of remarkable.
Noteworthy is the BMW-sourced 4.4-liter Twin-Turbo mild-hybrid V8 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain generates 626 horsepower, enabling acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.8 seconds. With the inclusion of 22-inch lightweight alloy wheels and all-season tires, it can achieve a top speed of 155mph on the track. Furthermore, the 6D Dynamics air suspension, previously featured on the Range Rover Sport SV, adjusts dynamically based on driving conditions. The hydraulically interlinked continuously variable semi-active dampers provide a remarkably stable driving experience, whether on rough terrains or city roads.
The Most Resilient Defender Ever
The mastermind behind this creation, Jamal Hameedi, the Director of SVO at Jaguar Land Rover – who gained experience in off-road racing while assisting Ford in winning three Baja 1000 titles in the ’90s – revealed during an unveiling event in Los Angeles last month that this vehicle is what he had envisioned developing upon joining JLR. This transition to the esteemed British adventure brand was prompted by his successful tenure at Ford, where he oversaw the development of high-performance models like the F-150 Raptor and Ford GT.
Since JLR teased the OCTA back in April, automotive enthusiasts have been eagerly anticipating the arrival of this “toughest, most capable, and luxurious Defender.” According to Hameedi, it stands out as one of the very few off-road vehicles created without compromising any aspect.
“Our team of high-performance specialists has accomplished the seemingly impossible with the Defender OCTA, dedicating three years to crafting the most adept Defender ever manufactured – regardless of the surface it traverses,” he emphasized in the release. Hameedi reiterated in person during the event that this vehicle is tailored for epic adventures and pushing the boundaries of what a Defender can achieve, from challenging deserts in Dubai to high-speed drives on the Autobahn.
Engineered to provide an exhilarating experience both on and off-road, the Defender OCTA effortlessly transitions from Comfort Mode to Dynamic Mode with the press of a button on the steering wheel. This optimization enhances steering, throttle response, and suspension settings for an extraordinary on-road driving experience. Engaging OCTA Mode, a first-of-its-kind off-road performance mode for a Defender, unlocks an Off-Road Launch mode for peak acceleration on challenging terrains and a unique Off-Road ABS calibration for superior braking performance.
Drivers have access to Terrain Response modes such as Sand, Mud and Ruts, Grass Gravel Snow, and Rock Crawl to tackle demanding off-road scenarios. Additionally, the ClearSight Ground View enhances visibility and maneuverability by virtually rendering the hood transparent.
A Premier Flagship for the Defender Brand
Sporting flared fenders and robust 33-inch tires – the largest ever seen on a standard Defender, the OCTA is designed with dedicated off-road enthusiasts in mind. With increased width, sitting 1.1 inches higher and 2.7 inches wider than its predecessors, the vehicle offers enhanced ground clearance and stability. Three factory tire options cater to different terrains: Michelin all-season tires (155 mph top speed), BFGoodrich Trail-Terrains (130mph), and Goodyear Wrangler Duratracs (112 mph).
The new rear bumper, equipped with a four-exit active exhaust system, contributes to its aggressive appearance. The optimized front bodywork with distinctive grille designs ensures improved under-bonnet airflow, enhancing both performance and aesthetics. The OCTA boasts sturdy underbody protection, like the aluminum alloy front under shield with a graphite finish, and exposed Phosphor Bronze-finished recovery points, which highlight its readiness for adventurous journeys.
Luxurious Toughness Signifying Status
As the inaugural offering under Defender’s high-performance sub-brand, each OCTA model features an encircled diamond graphic, including a gloss black diamond set within a machined and sandblasted titanium disc on the signature graphical panel. Available spec options comprise two new premium metallic finishes – Petra Copper and Faroe Green, in addition to Carpathian Grey and Charente Grey. All models can be customized with a contrasting roof and tailgate in gloss Narvik Black. The Defender OCTA Edition One, distinguished by an optional matte wrap and unique chopped carbon fiber accents on the bonnet script, fender vent surrounds, and interior trim, offers further exclusivity. Exclusive accessories, such as a twin raised air intake and a winch mounting kit, cater to off-road adventures.
Internally, the Defender OCTA Edition One features new seats upholstered in Ultrafabric 3D-knit textile, available in a sophisticated Khaki and Ebony color scheme. The base model offers semi-aniline leather in Burnt Sienna with Kvadrat textile trim in Ebony. Notably, the seats are equipped with Body and Soul Seat audio technology, a first for Defender models. Developed in collaboration with SUBPAC and Coventry University, this system allows the driver and front passenger to ‘feel’ the music, with six wellness programs available for added relaxation. The OCTA’s rugged yet refined appearance perfectly complements its robust off-road capabilities, making it a standout in the Defender lineup.
A diverse range of individuals, according to Hameedi, who anticipates that this model will attract a fresh cohort of patrons to the Defender brand. Possibly even enticing a few Mercedes-AMG G 63 enthusiasts to switch loyalties. Scheduled to make its debut at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed (July 11–14), the base model Defender OCTA begins at $153,475, while the Defender OCTA Edition One (available for the first year of production, featuring Faroe Green as an exclusive paint choice and distinctive chopped carbon fiber detailing) starts at $169,275. Orders are currently being accepted for both models at landroverusa.com
Image Source: Landrover.in
