Land Rover Defender Dakar D7X-R Revealed Ahead of 2026

Land Rover has unveiled its new rally-focused SUV, the Land Rover Defender Dakar D7X-R. It has been specifically designed for the 2026 World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) and the Dakar Rally, which begins in January 2026. This model is based on the Defender Octa and will compete in the W2RC's 'Stock' category. However, it features some significant modifications to comply with the regulations of this racing class.

Land Rover Defender Dakar D7X-R Architecture and Powerful V8 Engine

• The Defender Dakar D7X-R features the same tD7x body architecture
• Transmission
• Driveline
• 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine found in the Defender Octa.
• However, in accordance with rally regulations, it will utilize advanced sustainable fuel, which is fully compliant with FIA regulations.

Land Rover Defender Dakar D7X-R Specific Updates

• While retaining the Defender 110's body shell
• Several rally-specific modifications have been made.
• A large 550-liter rear fuel tank
• competition roll cage
• larger 35-inch tires
• 60mm wider track
• The ride height has also been increased to provide greater ground clearance.
• These updates in a D7X-R are crucial for withstanding the demanding conditions of the Dakar and other W2RC rallies.

Engine Output Control Under FIA Regulations

• Although the V8 engine is mechanically the same, an air-intake restrictor has been fitted to ensure its power output conforms to the FIA's stock category regulations.
• The car features extensive cooling system upgrades to cope with the sand
• Dust & extreme heat.
• These include a larger frontal area, improved grille airflow, a single larger radiator replacing the previous three
• Additionally, four 12V cooling fans operate at low speed to maintain cooling, and a vertical filter has been installed in the bonnet with modifications to prevent sand from entering the engine.
• Roof-mounted light pods and air intakes are included for enhanced performance.

After rigorous testing, it's ready for the race

• The Defender Rally team has put this SUV through over 6,000 km of off-road testing.
• Now it's fully prepared for its debut in the Dakar Rally, which begins on January 3, 2026, in Saudi Arabia.

What is the Land Rover Defender Dakar D7X-R SUV?

It’s a competition spec SUV based on the Land Rover Defender Ocat, built to compete in the fia World Rally Raid Championship(W2RC) and mark its debut at the 2026 Dakar Rally.

What is the basis of this vehicle?

The Defender Octa’s D7x aluminum body, 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine.

What‘s special about this rally version?

The Land Rover Defender Dakar D7X-R SUV gets major rally-focused upgrades.

• A large 550-liter rear fuel tank
• competition roll cage
• larger 35-inch tires
• 60mm wider track

Who’s driving it?

A professional squad, including veteran Dakar winners and top rally raid drivers, will pilot the Defender Dakar D7X-R SUV

Why is this important?

It makes Land Rover return to the top level of endurance rallying

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