Kiwi Defender Octa unveiling initiated by Beauden Barrett's kick
Jaguar Land Rover New Zealand Unveils the Extreme Defender Octa with Rugby Star Beauden Barrett
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) New Zealand has announced international rugby player Beauden Barrett as the Defender brand ambassador. The announcement was made at a special event in Auckland on June 17, where Barrett, photographer Chris Sisarich, and precision driver Richard Moore were on stage for a Q&A.
The star of the show was the Defender Octa, an extreme off-road version of the Defender that is now the new flagship of the Defender lineup. The Octa is equipped with a BMW-sourced 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering an impressive 635 PS (467 kW). This powerful engine is combined with a split, heated rear seat with armrest, wireless smartphone connectivity (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and an ionizer for air quality, setting it apart from other Defender variants.
The Octa's off-road capabilities are second to none, boasting a 68mm-wider track and 28m extra ride height. It also offers a dedicated Octa drive mode for "very fast off-road driving" and features a new "6D" adaptive suspension that virtually links all four corners of the car for precise handling. To top it off, the Octa has massive Brembo brakes for optimal stopping power.
The Octa's unique specification includes 20-inch forged alloy wheels, an exclusive Faroe Green exterior colour, Khaki and Ebony Ultrafabrics inside, and "Chopped Carbon Fibre" detailing. This detailing includes raw recycled materials visible on the bonnet script, bonnet/fender vent surrounds, front seatbacks, and centre console trim.
The Octa Edition One, a limited edition version of the Octa, takes exclusivity to the next level with additional features such as a panoramic roof and a Meridian sound system.
The Octa is priced at $309,900, or $339,900 for the Edition One. JLR NZ currently has 19 Octas on order, with 15 already sold.
To mark the new partnership, a photo and video shoot was held in Taranaki, New Zealand, featuring locations significant to Barrett's life, such as Taranaki Stadium, Arawhata Road, and farmland along the Tongapōrutu coastline.
With its extreme off-road capabilities, iconic design, and powerful engine, the Defender Octa is sure to turn heads and set new standards in the off-road vehicle market.
