Land Rover is set to unveil an all-new model, called the Defender Octa, later this year. The new ‘Octa’ badging, derived from the octahedron shape of a diamond, is meant to symbolize the “toughness” of all future Defender models under this badge. However, it should also likely be reflected in the pricing of the model as well.

Sadly, while the new Defender is still some time away, no technical specifications have been revealed yet. However, JLR has confirmed that the new model will utilize a twin-turbocharged V8 engine, likely the BMW-sourced 4.4-litre unit seen on the Sport SV. This engine produces 620PS of power and 800Nm of torque, enabling the Sport SV to sprint from 0-100kmph in just 3.8 seconds.

Other details that have been made public include the use of the same ‘6D Dynamic’ suspension setup also seen on the Sport SV. This setup allows for hydraulic connections, interconnecting the dampers between the front and rear as well as side to side, offering dynamic management of the vehicle's pitching and rolling movements without the need for a traditional anti-roll bar. This feature aims to deliver the necessary degree of wheel movement essential for rugged off-road performance akin to the Octa while ensuring on-road handling and comfort remain uncompromised.

From what we can gather, the Octa model is equipped with custom Brembo brakes, emphasizing the focus on on-track performance. These brakes are distinguished by the exclusive Octa diamond logo, which is also present on the steering wheel and side-pannier mounts.

Land Rover appears to be extensively testing the Octa Defender in the “most exhaustive” range of conditions, namely the ice caps of Sweden, the deserts of Dubai, and even the tarmac at Nürburgring. As mentioned earlier, the unveiling of the Defender Octa is scheduled for later this year.