Land Rover Defender OCTA Launches in Vietnam: Redefining High-Performance Off-Road SUVs

More than just a high-performance variant, the Defender OCTA redefines the concept of “high-performance off-roading” for the British off-road brand, meeting the market’s growing demand for a blend of power, technology, and premium experiences.

Engine Performance

Powering the Defender OCTA is an all-new V8 powertrain. This is the only Defender model equipped with a twin-turbocharged 4.4L V8 gasoline engine, paired with a mild hybrid (MHEV) system. This engine delivers 635 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 750 Nm of torque, reaching up to 800 Nm with Dynamic Launch activated. The Hot-Vee turbo layout ensures consistent torque across a wide rev range, providing seamless and powerful acceleration at both low and high speeds. The MHEV system supports the engine with a 20 kW electric motor and recovers energy during braking, enhancing efficiency and reducing CO₂ emissions.

Power is delivered through an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, a high-low range transfer case, and Defender’s signature intelligent all-wheel-drive system. The electronically controlled central and rear differentials allow flexible torque distribution among the wheels, adapting to various road conditions. To handle the increased torque, the drivetrain components—from drive shafts to differential housings—have been reinforced with high-strength steel, ensuring durability under high-stress operation.

One of the most significant upgrades in the Defender OCTA is the 6D Dynamics suspension system, a first for the Defender lineup. This system combines height-adjustable air suspension with hydraulic interlinked dampers, effectively minimizing body roll and pitch during acceleration, braking, and cornering. On paved roads, the OCTA delivers a more stable and precise driving experience than its predecessors. Off-road, the suspension allows for greater wheel articulation, significantly improving traction and control on rough terrain.

Thanks to extensive chassis and suspension upgrades, the Defender OCTA’s off-road capabilities reach new heights. It sits 28 mm higher, is 68 mm wider, has a ground clearance of 323 mm, and boasts a wheel articulation of 550 mm. It can also wade through one meter of water. Improved approach, departure, and breakover angles enable the OCTA to tackle more technical and extreme terrain than any previous Defender model.

The Defender OCTA also introduces the all-new OCTA driving mode—the first high-performance off-road mode in the Defender lineup. When activated, it adjusts throttle response, transmission, suspension, steering, and exhaust sound. The instrument cluster displays performance metrics like power, torque, and G-forces, offering a sporty driving experience even off the beaten path. On paved roads, the Dynamic mode is finely tuned, showcasing the OCTA’s high-performance SUV capabilities with stable acceleration, braking, and cornering.

Exterior Design

At first glance, the Defender OCTA impresses with its commanding presence. The redesigned front grille and extended bumper not only enhance its rugged appearance but also optimize airflow to cool the powerful V8 engine. The rear bumper improves the departure angle, allowing the OCTA to conquer the most challenging terrain. Signature design elements include a quad-exit exhaust system and updated LED headlights with sleek, minimalist graphics, reflecting Land Rover’s latest design language.

For the first time on a commercial Defender, the OCTA offers the largest tires in its history, with All-Season or All-Terrain options. Notably, the 20-inch alloy wheels draw inspiration from rally cars, combining satin black centers with diamond-cut outer rims for both off-road durability and aesthetic appeal. For urban enthusiasts, 22-inch 7-spoke wheels with a glossy black finish elevate the vehicle’s premium status.

The Defender OCTA also introduces a shift in materials, replacing the traditional Satin Moonlight finish with Textured Graphite on details like the logo, air vents, and bumper trim. This matte finish with high-intensity metallic accents conveys a sense of robustness and durability, embodying the vehicle’s rugged luxury.

To stand out, Land Rover offers two exclusive exterior colors: Sargasso Blue with ocean-inspired iridescent particles and Petra Copper, a warm and luxurious shade. Additionally, Borasco Grey and Charente Grey can be paired with a matte protective film for added durability and a subtle visual effect.

Attention to detail is evident in the recycled Chopped Carbon Fibre used for the logo and air vents, adding a technical aesthetic. All Defender OCTA models feature a Narvik Black roof and rear door, complemented by Phosphor Bronze recovery points, emphasizing the vehicle’s adventurous spirit.

Interior Design

Behind the Defender OCTA’s rugged exterior lies a meticulously crafted interior, where luxury is defined by advanced materials and a minimalist design language.

The most notable feature in the cabin is the exclusive sports seats, the first in the Defender lineup to use seamless shaping technology. Instead of traditional stitching, engineers employed a special foam molding technique to create a surface that hugs the body, providing maximum support during high-speed driving or extreme off-roading.

The front seats offer 14-way electric adjustment, heating, cooling, and integrated Body and Soul Seat (BASS) technology, delivering a unique multi-sensory audio experience. This attention to detail extends to the second row, which features equivalent finishes and heating for outer seats.

Land Rover is making significant strides in sustainable materials with the OCTA. Notably, the Ultrafabrics™ PU technical fabric option is 30% lighter than traditional leather and reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 75% during production. Available in Khaki-Ebony and Light Cloud-Lunar, this fabric is both durable and produced using a waste-reducing knitting process.

For those who prefer classic luxury, semi-aniline leather is available in Burnt Sienna or Ebony. The Burnt Sienna variant pairs beautifully with Kvadrat fabric and subtle rectangular perforations, creating a distinctive look for the flagship model.

The driving experience is enhanced by a new steering wheel design, featuring paddle shifters with backlighting and a quick-access drive mode selector. A standout detail is the paddle shifters’ transformation to a fiery red when “Dynamic” or “OCTA” modes are activated, synchronizing with the ambient lighting and instrument cluster for an instantly thrilling atmosphere.

Luxury is evident in every detail, from the suede-like headliner and Moonlight Chrome accents to the anodized gray metallic frame trim. Even the floor mats are eco-friendly, made from recycled ECONYL yarn, showcasing that durability and sustainability can coexist.

Beyond performance, the Defender OCTA focuses on in-cabin technology and experience. The BASS seats allow occupants to feel music through tactile vibrations, complemented by a 700W Meridian sound system. Integrated wellness programs, developed through scientific research, aim to reduce stress and enhance mental well-being for front-seat passengers on long journeys.

TH (Tuoitrethudo)