- It seems this Defender will sport the flagship 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8.
- The SUV has bigger tires than the Defender Octa and sits higher.
- This camouflage prototype includes snorkels on both A-pillars.
It’s been less than two years since Land Rover launched its flagship Defender Octa, and it looks to be developing an even more bonkers version of the legendary off-roader. We don’t know what this model will be called, but it could perhaps be the nearest thing we’ve seen to the Mercedes-AMG G63 4×4², albeit without that vehicle’s trick portal axles.
Read: Land Rover Defender Facelift Will Usher In New Four-Seat Version
A heavily camouflaged prototype of the vehicle was recently spotted doing the rounds at the Nurburgring, the perfect location to safely push it to its limits. Nevertheless, this model does not appear to be one specifically focused on track performance, but rather on conquering the most treacherous off-road terrain.
Additionally, there is a set of even chunkier Goodyear Wrangler tires. It also appears to sit higher than the Octa and may have even wider arches. Clearly, Land Rover is eager to push the Defender’s off-roading credentials to new heights with this model, likely launching it alongside the facelifted model that was also recently spotted during testing.
A V8 Powerhouse
Given the presence of the twin snorkels, and therefore two air intakes, it’s reasonable to assume this version of the Defender has the same basic 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 as the Octa, sourced from BMW. In the Octa, this engine produces 626 hp and 553 lb-ft (750 Nm) of torque, making it the most powerful Defender ever. It’s entirely possible that power could be increased even further for this model, although it certainly doesn’t need any extra grunt.
If this version of the Defender does indeed launch alongside the 2027 facelift, then it will presumably benefit from some of the upgrades as other Defender models. These could include a tweaked front grille and perhaps the availability of captain’s chairs for the second row.