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Defender Dakar Launch Set for 2027 – New Rally SUV Details Revealed
Defender Dakar gets a 635hp 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8. The SUV features 35-inch tyres, Bilstein dampers and a new Flight Mode. Reservations will open in early 2027, with full specs coming at the Dakar Rally.
Defender has revealed the new Dakar as a limited-run road-legal SUV inspired by its Dakar Rally-winning D7X-R competition car. Previewed at the 2026 Monterey Car Week, the Defender Dakar brings rally-derived hardware to a road-going model based on the Defender Octa. Reservations for the new Defender Dakar are scheduled to open in early 2027, while its full technical specifications will be revealed during the 2027 Dakar Rally.
Defender Dakar Gets 635hp V8
The Defender Dakar is powered by a 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine that develops 635hp and 750Nm. The engine is shared with the D7X-R rally car, although Defender says the road-going SUV will run unrestricted compared with the competition version.
The Dakar also retains the D7X body architecture, transmission and driveline from the rally car. This gives the new SUV a closer mechanical connection to Defender's Dakar programme than a conventional special edition.
Also Read: New Aston Martin Valen Revealed – 850hp V12, 345kph Top Speed and More
35-Inch Tyres and Rally Suspension
The new Defender gets a wider track and increased ride height, along with 35-inch all-terrain tyres mounted on forged 20-inch wheels. Suspension hardware includes coil springs and Bilstein Advanced dampers. Defender has also introduced new Dunes and Gravel drive modes to help optimise the SUV for different off-road surfaces.
One of the standout features is Flight Mode. Developed specifically for the Dakar, the system is designed to improve stability when the SUV becomes airborne and during landings over uneven terrain.
Rugged Exterior Design
The Defender Dakar's exterior takes direct inspiration from the D7X-R rally car. It gets roof-mounted auxiliary lights, a fixed metal roof and a carbon-fibre bonnet. The SUV also features raised carbon-fibre air intakes, extended wheel arches with exposed rivets, signature mud flaps and a tailgate blanking panel. Additional underbody protection and a front undershield are designed to protect the SUV during demanding off-road driving. Among the available exterior finishes is a Dakar Sand and Yanbu Turquoise combination inspired by the race-winning D7X-R.
Cabin Gets a Rally-Inspired Layout
Inside, the Defender Dakar moves away from the conventional luxury-focused layout of the regular Defender Octa. It gets a 2+2 seating configuration with specially designed front race seats. Four-point racing harnesses will be available as an option, adding to the rally-inspired character of the cabin. The rear storage area has also been designed to carry race helmets. The load bay gets dedicated mounting points for the spare wheel and an air compressor, making the interior more practical for serious off-road use.
Also Read: 5 New Toyota Cars Coming to India – Fortuner, EV MPV and More
Defender Dakar Reservations in 2027
Defender has not yet revealed the production numbers or price of the Dakar. The company will open reservations in early 2027, while the complete technical specifications will be announced during the 2027 Dakar Rally.
With a 635hp V8, 35-inch tyres, rally-derived suspension and Flight Mode, the Defender Dakar is shaping up to be one of the most extreme road-legal versions of the SUV yet.
About Author
Konica Singh
Sub-Editor
Konica Singh is a passionate Automotive Journalist who brings the world of cars to life, from EV trends to exciting new car launches. Backed by 7 years in content creation, she is skilled in writing, editing, and SEO strategy that drives engagement.
Education: MA English (Delhi University)
Social Media: LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook
Email: konica.carlelo@gmail.com
Location: New Delhi
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