The World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) 2026 season kicks off in January, covering around 5,000km of grueling stages spread over two demanding weeks. Making a dramatic entry into this iconic motorsport event is Land Rover’s latest creation – the Defender Dakar D7X-R, developed specifically for the Dakar Rally’s ‘Stock’ category. Built on the proven Defender Octa platform, this rally-ready machine combines extreme durability, advanced engineering and bespoke desert-focused upgrades. Here’s an in-depth look at everything the D7X-R brings to the table.
Purpose-Built for Rally-Raid Challenges
Rugged Platform and Desert-Ready Hardware
The Defender Dakar D7X-R is engineered on Land Rover’s robust D7X architecture, the same ladder-type body structure that underpins the Defender Octa (110). However, the D7X-R takes things several notches higher:
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35-inch off-road tyres replace the Octa’s 20-inch BFG Trail-Terrain units, enhancing wheel travel and toughness.
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Ride height increased significantly, allowing easier obstacle clearance on extreme Dakar terrain.
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60mm wider track for improved stability and better handling over dunes and rocks.
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Upgraded underbody protection, including a reinforced skid plate.
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Heavy-duty shocks and dampers, co-developed with Bilstein, tailored for high-speed rally punishment.
A key component of the setup is the massive 550-litre fuel tank, positioned at the rear. This ensures long desert stages can be completed without frequent refueling and necessitates a bespoke suspension setup capable of handling the extra load.
‘Flight Mode’ for Hard Landings
One of the standout features is the new Flight Mode, an electronic system designed to safeguard the powertrain during jumps and heavy landings. It manages torque delivery precisely when the vehicle touches down—critical for W2RC conditions. The extensive roll cage inside the cabin ensures maximum safety in case of mishaps.
Engine, Gearbox and Cooling Upgrades
Under the bonnet, the D7X-R retains the formidable 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 from the Defender Octa. While the production-spec Octa produces 635hp and 800Nm, the rally car’s output will be intentionally reduced due to FIA Stock category air-restrictor regulations. The engine will also run on sustainable fuel, reinforcing the future-forward approach of the W2RC.
Supporting this performance is:
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An all-new cooling system, replacing the Octa’s triple radiator setup with one large radiator.
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Four high-capacity 12-volt fans to maximise airflow even at low speeds in soft sand.
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A particle filter to shield the engine from fine desert dust.
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8-speed torque converter automatic gearbox, retuned with a shorter final drive ratio for stronger low-end torque.
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Upgraded rally-spec brakes with six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers.
Land Rover says the D7X-R will be slower than the Octa’s 4-second 0-100kph sprint due to additional weight and restricted power output—but pure speed is not the focus here. Reliability, endurance and control take priority.
Exterior Enhancements and Interior Transformation
Bold Rally Aesthetics
The Defender Dakar D7X-R features a striking dual-tone ‘Geopalette’ livery:
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Lower body colours reflect desert landscapes.
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The bright aqua roof symbolises rare desert water sources.
Other exterior changes include redesigned bumpers to improve approach and departure angles, roof-mounted LED lights, and roof-integrated cabin air intakes.
Functional, Rally-Specified Cabin
The interior has been stripped and refitted purely for competition:
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Comprehensive roll cage.
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Fixed windows with rally-style portholes.
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Custom racing seats with six-point harnesses.
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Minimalist carbon-fibre and suede trim.
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Practical rally essentials such as
– tool kit
– hydraulic jacks
– compressed air system
– three spare wheels
– 8 litres of onboard water storage
Everything inside is designed for durability and quick operation during high-pressure rally conditions.
A Team Led by Dakar Royalty
Land Rover’s Dakar return will be spearheaded by some of the biggest names in rally-raid motorsport:
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Stéphane Peterhansel, 14-time Dakar champion, will lead the team with co-driver Mika Metge.
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Sara Price, a Dakar stage winner, will pair with Sean Berriman.
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Rising star Rokas Baciuška will be partnered by Oriol Vidal.
The team will operate under the leadership of Ian James as Team Principal, supported by a dedicated squad of engineers and technicians.
The Defender Dakar D7X-R: Built to Take on the Toughest Rally on Earth
The Defender Dakar D7X-R is more than just a modified SUV—it is a purpose-built rally machine crafted for one of the most punishing motorsport events in the world. With a strong mechanical base, extensive chassis enhancements, specialised safety equipment and a world-class driver lineup, Land Rover is aiming for a strong debut at Dakar 2026.
If the D7X-R performs as expected, it could mark the beginning of a fresh motorsport chapter for the Defender nameplate.
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