There is a new kid on the Defender block – the OCTA. It is the most dynamically accomplished Defender ever created (based on the 110 model), with unmatched performance, both on- and off-road, JLR claims.
The OCTA’s name is derived from the toughest and most desirable mineral on earth – the diamond – and the octahedral shape that gives it its distinctive appearance and durability.
What’s new?
Although recognisable as a member of the Land Rover Defender family, the OCTA is more than just a few styling changes. The secret is under the skin so to speak, with a fireball of an engine and some other drivetrain modifications.
Engine:
It is the most powerful Defender yet, featuring a 4.4-litre Twin Turbo mild-hybrid V8 developing 467 kW and up to 750 Nm of torque, with a 0-100km/h acceleration in just 4 seconds. The top speed is limited to 250 km/h.
Suspension:
The OCTA’s dynamic capabilities go beyond what any Defender has thus far achieved, with the first-time introduction of hydraulically interlinked 6D Dynamics suspension technology. This is alongside extensive hardware and geometry changes.
The vehicle sits 28 mm higher and has a stance widened by 68 mm, for superior ground clearance and stability. To ensure unparalleled confidence and control on any terrain, with both maximum wheel articulation off-road and reduced roll on-road, revised suspension components include longer and tougher wishbones.
For more technical off-road manoeuvres, the Defender’s suite of familiar Terrain Response modes remains at the driver’s fingertips, with specific calibrations for Sand, Mud and Ruts, Grass Gravel Snow, and Rock Crawl – assisted by driver aids such as ClearSight Ground View3, which effectively makes the bonnet transparent for improved visibility and reassurance off the beaten track.
Exterior:
The exterior has a distinct character. The ride height is raised, its stance widened and wheel arches extended for incredible presence. Redesigned bumpers give improved approach and departure angles, while tough underbody protection gives drivers the confidence to explore further over rough terrain. And it will wade deeper than any production Defender before it too – through up to one metre of water.
Green paint colour with a Khaki and Ebony Ultrafabrics and 3D Knit interior, new Chopped Carbon Fibre detailing, and 20-inch forged alloy wheels with a choice of all-terrain or optional specially developed Advanced All-Terrain Tyres, are part of the exterior picture.
Interior:
Inside, curated selections set the OCTA apart. Two highly durable Ultrafabrics options – 30 per cent lighter than traditional leather – are available. This seat finish is standard on Defender OCTA Edition One, in duo-tone Khaki and Ebony.
The front row of Defender OCTA features all-new Performance Seats with more supportive bolsters and integrated headrests. The Defender’s close association with music is brought to the fore with immersive Body and Soul Seat audio technology – available for the first time in the Defender.
Price:
New Defender OCTA order books will officially open soon with indicative pricing from R3 499 100 in South Africa. The OCTA will make its public debut at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed from 11–14 July.
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Cars are the ultimate symbol of freedom, independence and individualism. They offer the freedom to ‘go anywhere,’ whenever it suits and with whom one chooses.
Sarah Redshaw
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