Land Rover’s Defender D7X R stands out with a one of a kind Geopalette paint job that blends desert sand, stone, and earth tones with a contrasting aqua roof. This look is not just for show. Every detail is tuned for rally action, from the wide fenders to the aggressive stance. The SUV is based on the powerful Defender Octa platform and is set to compete in the demanding stock category.

Under the hood, the 4.4 liter twin turbo V8 engine keeps its legendary grunt, even though its output is controlled by an air intake restrictor to meet rally regulations. Engineers tweaked the eight speed transmission for better torque at low speeds, added major cooling upgrades, and installed a more robust particle filter to guard the engine from dust and sand. The Defender D7X R also carries massive fuel reserves with a 145 gallon tank, three full size spare tires, and all the gear needed for marathon stages, protected by a full FIA spec roll cage.

Endurance racing means the suspension and body must handle brutal punishment, so the D7X R comes with heavy duty front coil over shocks and rear twin shocks developed in partnership with Bilstein. This setup handles extra race weight and keeps the Defender stable over jumps, dunes, and rocky trails.

A standout feature is the new Flight Mode system from Defender Rally. When the SUV gets airborne during jumps, Flight Mode instantly adjusts power distribution to protect the drivetrain on landing. It is a leap forward in rally tech and could change the way teams tackle the harshest stages of the Dakar.

The journey for glory begins at the 2026 Dakar Rally, followed by rounds in Portugal, Argentina, Morocco, and the Emirates. Team leader Ian James says the new Defender is ready for the unknown and honors the legacy of Land Rover’s most famous rally cars, promising that with this machine, the toughest adventure is just beginning.