Land Rover Unveils 626-HP Defender Dakar Off-Roader Based on Dakar-Winning D7X-R

Following the D7X-R race car’s Stock-class victory at the 2026 Dakar Rally, Land Rover unveiled a pre-production prototype of the road-legal Defender Dakar off-roader. The vehicle features a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 626 hp, 35-inch mud-terrain tires, and a sports suspension with Bilstein dampers.

Unlike the D7X-R racing prototype, whose engine was restricted by motorsport regulations, the road-going SUV delivers full factory power: its 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 produces 626 hp and 750 Nm of torque.

The vehicle’s electronics feature Dunes and Gravel rally presets alongside a motorsport-derived Flight Mode: the system automatically adjusts torque distribution when the vehicle becomes airborne over jumps, ensuring a safe landing.

Off-Road Chassis and Interior

According to Road & Track, the road-going version features a wider track, increased ground clearance, coil-spring suspension with Bilstein Advanced Dampers, and 35-inch tires on 20-inch forged wheels.

The exterior features a carbon-fiber hood, raised air intakes, reinforced metal skid plates, and a roof-mounted LED light bar. A full-size spare tire and an onboard tire inflator compressor are stored inside the trunk. The interior uses a four-seat 2+2 layout with sports seats and optional four-point seatbelts.

The Defender Dakar will be produced in limited numbers. Official reservations and full pricing details are scheduled for early 2027.