by Veeno Dewan
Named after a unique octahedron shaped diamond and symbolizing strength, durability, and luxury – Land rover has named the latest high-performance Off and On -road version of the legendary Defender as the “Defender Octa.”
Based on the Defender 110 series The Octa arrives in one model only for Canada – the 110-trim line with four -doors powered by a good- old fashioned V8 mated to a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The Octa looks like a factory custom with unique widely flared wheel arches offsetting the boxy upright body design. The Octa sits on unique seven- spoke wheels shod with 33-inch All Terrain tires. Quad exhaust tips differentiate it from other Defenders. Other touches include the amber lights in the unique front grill, gold front and rear tow hooks, and a gold graphic outline on the Defender hood script. Octa models also get a textured graphite finish on the bumpers, hood, side vents, and front under shield. The look is expensive, personalized and imposing.
The engine is a BMW-sourced 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 that generates 626 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque through an 8-speed automatic gearbox. There is four-wheel drive and a slew of Off-Road driving technology aids. The supremely powerful V8 unit is also used on the high-performance BMW F90 M5 and will accelerate to 100 km/h in under four seconds – that’s high-performance numbers found in exotic super cars!
Technology abounds on the Octa, one of the innovations is a new 6D Dynamic suspension system, replacing normal anti-roll bars with hydraulically interlinked dampers connecting all four corners of the vehicle in an X pattern. Special fluid is supplied to each damper to counteract the opposing loads and forces to enable a smoother more stable ride and superior Off – Road ability.
The 2026 Land Rover Octa is approximately $177,100 to $189,300 in Canada. Options and special addition can boost the price to over $200,000.CAD. Interior cabins are highly luxurious and updates include a new 13.1-inch infotainment screen, a repositioned gear shifter, and a revised center console design. Almost all the interior is covered in expensive, premium soft leather, including the dashboard and gear shifter. The switchgear has also been upgraded, with dark chrome dial surrounds. The headliner is lined in suede, and the semi-aniline leather seats have seamless bolsters to provide excellent lateral support and better cushioning. The seats also feature the new Body and Soul Seats (BASS) function, which uses integrated transducers to deliver acoustics according to the audio systems settings. Thankfully there is plethora of actual pysical buttons and dials as well as the touchscreen. The steering wheel is thick leather covered affair with ceramic details on the spokes and illuminated paddle shifter tips that glow red when activated.
On the road, the mighty 626 horsepower engine with torque at 553 lb-ft erupts when you fire up the big V8. You get the thrilling audio sound track; snarls, growls and barks as the engine roars to life. At full throttle. torque arrives in a rush as the Octa accelerates. the big tires do allow some road imperfections, but the well-tuned suspension soaks the worst up with aplomb. The new 6D system damping system is most effective on controlling acceleration on hard launches and pitch reduction when braking. The 6D system also makes light world of cornering and sudden weight transfers. Steering is sharper and more responsive, and there is that ability to tackle many different terrains without compromising on-road comfort. Fully independent coil springs and available air suspension that enables adjustable ride height is also included.
Off Road performance is excellent – A new Adaptive Off-Road Cruise Control system allows the Defender to automatically modulate throttle input over tough terrain. The Defender has 11.5 inches of ground clearance and the ability to ford through 35 inches of water, A 28mm higher ride height, 33-inch tires, and specialized “OCTA” mode for high-speed desert running/loose gravel also add to the performance.
To sum up, negatives became superfluous at this price point segment of the luxury off road sector – it becomes largely subjective. There is of course the steep pricing for top-tier models. Fuel economy is not great, and there is no hybrid version – should it be concern. Cargo capacity is stingy, but the cabin is otherwise roomy and luxurious.
The Defender Octa occupies those rarified strata of luxury off-road SUVs such as the, Lexus LX 700h, and Range Rover Sport SV. However, the closest competitor is the Mercedes-Benz G550 and G63 Mercedes to which it compares very well. The Octa is the one to go for I think due to its rarity and pedigree. It also looks unique. Superb in every way.
2026 Land Rover Defender Octa: Priced from $177,100 to $189,300.
More info at landrover.ca