The Land Rover Defender has long been an automotive icon since its debut in 1948, but the OCTA variant elevates the classic with a focus on performance and refinement. The Defender 110 4.4 V8 OCTA, priced from 220,900 francs, was tested over a week across urban, highway, and rugged off-road conditions to assess its capabilities against rivals such as the Mercedes-AMG G 63.
Visually, the OCTA presents a commanding presence with dimensions of 2.11 meters in width (mirrors included) and up to 2.07 meters in height, giving it a near-quadratic, monolithic silhouette. Its design avoids the overtly aggressive styling of the G 63, offering a more understated yet imposing aesthetic. The exterior is finished in Sargasso Blue for the test vehicle.
Performance figures highlight the OCTA’s strengths. While the AMG G 63’s 4.0-liter V8 hybrid produces 585 horsepower, the Defender’s 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 delivers 635 horsepower, enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in four seconds compared to the G 63’s 4.3 seconds. The OCTA’s top speed is electronically limited to 220 km/h, though its theoretical maximum is 250 km/h. The G 63 retains an advantage in torque at 850 Newtonmeters versus the Defender’s 750, though the latter briefly reaches 800 Nm with launch control. The Defender’s curb weight of nearly three tonnes is also higher than the G 63’s 2.6 tonnes.
On the highway, the OCTA excels with a notably quiet and composed ride, a rarity among high-performance SUVs. The BMW-sourced 8-cylinder biturbo engine, shared with the G 63, delivers a refined yet potent performance. In standard driving modes, the V8 operates with a subdued tone, shifting to a deeper, more pronounced exhaust note in Dynamic and OCTA modes. The Defender’s 6D Dynamics hydraulic-linked suspension, which manages body roll without conventional stabilizers, enhances precision and stability despite its weight.
Off-road performance is equally impressive. With a ground clearance of 323 millimeters and large 20-inch BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A tires, the OCTA navigates rough terrain effortlessly. Its wading depth of one meter and intelligent terrain-response systems, including the OCTA mode for rapid off-road driving, further distinguish it. The OCTA mode automatically adjusts throttle response and traction control, proving effective even on paved roads.
A notable limitation emerges from regulatory changes: starting mid-2026, the OCTA’s power output will be reduced to 537 horsepower to comply with stricter European emissions standards, though torque remains unaffected. Despite this setback, the OCTA’s blend of luxury, performance, and versatility solidifies its position as a compelling alternative to established rivals.
