Land Rover Defender Octa launched in India at Rs 2.59 Crores: Gets BMW’s V8 engine

Jaguar Land Rover has launched the new Defender Octa in India, with prices starting at Rs 2.59 crore (ex-showroom). Positioned as the flagship model in the Defender lineup, it is the most powerful and luxurious version to date. An exclusive Edition One variant will be available for the first year at Rs 2.79 crore (ex-showroom).

Based on the Defender 110, the Octa receives upgrades in suspension, chassis, and off-road capabilities. It features larger off-road tires, a wider track, and enhanced exterior elements. The Edition One variant gets 20-inch off-road wheels, while the standard model sports 22-inch all-season tires. ‘Octa’ badging appears on the C-pillars, and the vehicle includes a gloss-black roof and tailgate.

The SUV is offered in four paint options, including Petra Copper and Faroe Green, along with Carpathian Grey and Charente Grey. A matte protective film is available as an option. The redesigned front and rear bumpers improve approach and departure angles, and the revised grille enhances airflow. A signature diamond graphic appears behind the rear window. The Octa’s ride height is increased by 28mm, and its wheel arches are extended to accommodate larger alloys.

Inside, the layout remains similar to the standard Defender, with additional premium elements. Interior themes include Burnt Sienna with Ebony or Light Cloud with Lunar, while the Edition One features a Khaki and Ebony combination. The front seats offer improved bolster support and integrated headrests. It also includes Land Rover’s Body and Soul Seat audio system, which synchronizes seat vibrations with music played through a 700W, 15-speaker Meridian surround sound system.

The Defender Octa debuts a 6D Dynamic suspension system, which uses hydraulically linked dampers to manage pitch and roll without a conventional anti-roll bar. This setup enhances wheel articulation for off-road performance while maintaining stability on-road. It also features reinforced wishbones, a faster steering rack, and an exclusive Octa mode with an off-road launch function.

Powering the Defender Octa is a BMW-sourced 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 with mild-hybrid technology. Producing 635hp and 750Nm of torque, it delivers up to 800Nm with launch control. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox, enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.8 seconds and a claimed top speed of 250 km/h.