Land Rover Defender Octa: The Rs 3 Crore+ SUV That’s A Beast On and Off-Road

Defender Octa: Unleashing the Beast Within

The Land Rover Defender has always been a legend, revered for its rugged capability and go-anywhere attitude. But what happens when you take that legend and inject it with a serious dose of high-octane performance and off-road prowess? You get the Defender Octa—a machine that is more than just an SUV; it’s a statement.

While at first glance it may look like the Defender we all know and love, a closer inspection reveals a car that has been meticulously re-engineered for a completely different purpose. This isn’t just a variant; It’s a car that’s tougher, faster, and more capable than anything that has come before it.

The defender Octa Transformation

The changes in the Defender Octa are not merely cosmetic. They are fundamental upgrades designed to handle the massive increase in power and performance.

• Size and Stance: The Octa retains the same wheelbase as the standard Defender but is wider and taller, giving it a more imposing and aggressive stance. This increased size, along with larger and wider tires, contributes to better stability and off-road capability.
• Engine & Performance: The heart of the Octa is a beastly 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, a unit famously developed by BMW for their high-performance M cars. This engine, which is more powerful than the 5-litre V8 in the regular Defender, is a game-changer. It delivers a colossal surge of power, allowing the SUV to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in a jaw-droppingly short time. The new engine’s tuning is so precise that it provides a remarkably linear and accessible power band, making the car surprisingly easy to drive despite its immense power.
• Suspension: To manage the insane power and added height, the Octa’s suspension system has been completely overhauled. It features a sophisticated air suspension system, which is a significant departure from the standard setup. This system is tuned to handle the harsh realities of Indian roads and off-road terrain, offering a ride that is both comfortable on the road and exceptionally capable when the asphalt ends. The suspension’s ability to absorb bumps and potholes without transmitting the roughness to the cabin is truly remarkable.
• Weight Reduction: To make the car lighter and more agile, Land Rover has incorporated forged carbon fibre in several places, including the logo, bonnet, fender, and even on the back of the seats. This premium material is not only light but also incredibly strong, perfectly in line with the vehicle’s rugged persona.
• Interior Upgrades:
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• While the overall design remains familiar, the interior of the Octa sees a major leap in material quality. The seats, in particular, are a standout feature. They are bucket-shaped and provide excellent lateral support, holding the occupants firmly in place during aggressive driving or challenging off-road manoeuvres. The materials used are of a higher grade and are also incredibly rugged, designed to withstand rough use without issue. A new “Octa” button on the steering wheel instantly activates a performance mode, and the paddle shifters glow with ambient light, adding to the sporty feel.

Creature Comforts and Practicality

Despite its focus on performance, the Defender Octa doesn’t skimp on practicality and comfort. It’s still a spacious SUV that can easily accommodate a family of five and their luggage. The boot space is generous, and a 12V charging point and a large socket are available for all your power needs. An optional fridge in the armrest is a nice touch, especially for those who enjoy off-road adventures.

A unique feature is the ability to raise and lower the rear of the car using a control in the boot, making it easier to load and unload heavy items. However, a slight drawback of its elevated stance is the absence of a footboard, which could make climbing in and out a bit challenging for shorter individuals.

Some older models might have a slightly smaller screen, but the UI and functionality remain the same across the new Defender line-up. A fun and very loud feature is the active exhaust system, which can be activated with a dedicated button to unleash a deeper, more aggressive roar

On-Road vs. Off-Road

Driving the Defender Octa is an exhilarating experience. The new V8 engine is incredibly responsive, and you can hit triple-digit speeds in no time at all. The raised driving position gives you a commanding view of the road, which is a great confidence booster.

The Octa is a true dual-purpose vehicle. It’s a blast to drive on the tarmac, but its off-road capabilities are what truly set it apart. The 6D Dynamics air suspension, a key technical highlight, allows the car to tackle a variety of terrains with surprising ease. The Terrain Response system, which includes a special Octa mode for loose surfaces, handles the complexities of different terrains, allowing the driver to focus on the fun part of the drive. The high ground clearance and well-tuned suspension mean you don’t feel the bumps and bad patches, a huge advantage on Indian roads.

Read Also: Next-Gen Sedan Unveiled: The 2025 Hyundai Elantra

A Quick Comparison: Defender Octa vs. Standard Defender

The Final Verdict

The Defender Octa is a brilliant piece of engineering. It’s a high-performance SUV that doesn’t compromise on its off-road heritage. While the lack of ADAS in the Indian model and the hefty price tag are points to consider, the sheer joy of driving this powerful and capable machine makes it a truly unique proposition. Its closest competitor is arguably the Mercedes-AMG G63, but the Defender Octa carves out its own niche as a rugged, rally-inspired performance beast. If you’re looking for the ultimate Defender, and you have the budget, the Octa is the clear choice. It’s not just a car; it’s an experience.