Less than two years after launching the Defender Octa, Land Rover appears to be working on an even more extreme version of its iconic off-roader.
A heavily camouflaged prototype was recently spotted testing at the Nürburgring, though this model seems focused on off-road capability rather than track performance.
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Distinctive Off-Road Upgrades
The prototype features snorkels on both A-pillars, allowing it to cross deeper water than the Octa without hydrolocking.
It also rides higher and wears chunkier Goodyear Wrangler tires, along with what appear to be wider wheel arches.
These changes suggest Land Rover is pushing the Defender's off-road credentials to new heights, possibly launching this variant alongside the facelifted Defender expected for 2027.
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V8 Powerhouse
Given the twin snorkels and dual air intakes, this model likely uses the same 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 sourced from BMW that powers the Octa.
In the Octa, that engine delivers 626 hp and 553 lb-ft (750 Nm) of torque, making it the most powerful Defender ever.
It's possible power could be increased further for this version, though it already has ample grunt.
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If launched alongside the 2027 facelift, it may also benefit from updates like a tweaked front grille and optional captain's chairs for the second row.
