In a bold move for off-road enthusiasts and luxury SUV lovers alike, the new Defender OCTA has hit the Indian market, setting a new benchmark in performance, toughness, and refinement. Unveiled on March 26, 2025, this latest Defender iteration is engineered to conquer the most challenging terrains while offering an upscale driving experience.
The Defender OCTA takes a giant leap over its predecessors with an elevated ride height, widened stance, and redesigned bumpers that boost approach and departure angles. With an overall ground clearance of 323mm and the ability to wade through up to one meter of water, the vehicle is designed to tackle even the most formidable off-road challenges. Enhancements under the hood include heavily revised chassis components and the introduction of an advanced 6D Dynamics suspension system, which ensures superior control on both rough trails and smooth highways.
Under its bold exterior lies the most powerful Defender engine yet—the BMW Sourced S63 4.4-liter Twin Turbo mild-hybrid V8 that churns out 467 kW of power and a massive 750 Nm of torque. This high-performance powertrain pushes the Defender OCTA from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.0 seconds, making it as dynamic on the street as it is capable off it. The introduction of OCTA Mode—a dedicated performance-focused off-road setting—further optimizes traction, braking, and acceleration on loose surfaces, while also providing a unique interior ambiance and exhilarating exhaust note.
The new model also introduces a suite of upgraded components designed for safety and control, including the largest-ever brake discs fitted to a Defender at 400mm, coupled with six-piston monobloc calipers. Additionally, the vehicle features 33-inch all-terrain tyres, a first for the Defender lineup, ensuring maximum grip and stability no matter the environment.
Inside, the Defender OCTA offers a refined yet rugged cabin experience. Exclusive to the OCTA Edition One is the striking Faroe Green paint, complemented by duo-tone Khaki and Ebony Ultrafabrics™ PU seating—30 percent lighter than traditional leather. Chopped Carbon Fibre detailing and 20-inch forged alloy wheels elevate the aesthetic, while advanced Body and Soul Seat audio technology integrates tactile transducers to enhance the in-cabin sensory experience.
Rajan Amba, Managing Director of JLR India, emphasized the significance of the new model. “Defender has been a game-changer for us in India, and the Defender OCTA takes that legacy further by combining unmatched off-road capability with premium luxury. It’s a vehicle designed to conquer the roughest terrains while providing an uncompromised driving experience,” he said.
Priced at ₹2.59 Crore (ex-showroom) for the standard model and ₹2.79 crore (ex-showroom) for the limited-edition OCTA Edition One, the new Defender OCTA is poised to attract a new breed of enthusiasts who demand both extreme performance and luxury. With its blend of rugged durability, high-end amenities, and cutting-edge technology, the Defender OCTA is set to redefine what a luxury off-road vehicle can be in the modern era.
