Defender Dakar D7X-R Revealed With Twin-Turbo V8 and Exclusive “Flight Mode”

The ultimate test of man and machine, the Dakar Rally, is preparing for the return of an expert competitor. The Defender Dakar D7X-R is here, marking Land Rover’s long-awaited return to the famously unforgiving rally after being absent since the 1990s. Based on the robust architecture of the V8-powered Defender OCTA, this specialized vehicle is engineered to handle over 4,970 miles of lifeless, barren, and basically roadless desert.

Defender Dakar D7X-R Rally Racer — Source: Land Rover

The D7X-R adopts the OCTA’s core structure and powertrain layout, but features substantial modifications to survive the two-week, 80-hour competitive driving period of the 2026 race.

Here is a closer look at the unique features and the technology designed for inevitable jumps.

Engine, Suspension, and Fuel

Per new rules enforced in 2026, the engine is restricted in its modifications, focusing the engineering effort on cooling, suspension, and durability.

Component	Specification	Purpose
Engine	4.4-liter Twin-Turbo V8	Same as Defender OCTA, must run on sustainable fuel (FIA rule).
Cooling	Reworked Front Fascia & Single Radiator	Beefed-up system with four large fans to prioritize airflow in extreme heat.
Suspension	Bilstein Performance Dampers	Single-coil-over front and parallel twin rear dampers, using the OCTA’s kinematic principle.
Fuel Capacity	550-Liter Fuel Tank	Massive capacity required to cover the remote distances of the rally stages.
Tires	35-inch Tyre Package	Provides necessary grip and durability for the harsh terrain.

A particle filter has also been added to the air intakes as a prerequisite to prevent sand from entering the engine during high-speed desert running.

defender rally mika metge stephane peterhansel 001 1001969 — Stéphane Peterhansel and Mika Metge

defender rally rokas baciuska oriol vidal 001 1001970 — Stéphane Peterhansel and Mika Metge

Flight Mode: Designed for Jumps

All the suspension and cooling upgrades are par for the course when it comes to competing in Dakar, but Land Rover has added something truly unique to the Defender Dakar D7X-R: Flight Mode.

How it Works: Flight Mode uses sensors to automatically adjust torque delivery from the engine to the wheels whenever the D7X-R is airborne.
Purpose: This feature is designed to ensure a smooth landing and protect the entire driveline and transmission from the catastrophic shock loads generated by the numerous jumps and crests along the route.

The D7X-R will be piloted by three pairs of driver/co-driver teams, including Dakar-legend Stéphane Peterhansel. The combination of tested V8 power and this innovative, driveline-protecting software is Land Rover’s bid for a successful return to the ultimate endurance rally.

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