Land Rover has unveiled the Defender Dakar – a road-legal version of the D7X-R SUV, which debuted at the 2026 Dakar Rally and secured first, second, and fourth places in the Stock class. The production car is based on the same body architecture, transmission, and powertrain.
The main difference from the racing car is the engine. Dakar regulations limited the D7X-R's power to approximately 394 hp, while the road-legal Defender Dakar received a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 635 hp (626 hp) and 750 Nm. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive with a low-range gearbox.
But power is far from the most important thing here. Instead of the standard Defender OCTA air suspension, the new Dakar received racing springs and Bilstein shock absorbers, increased suspension travel, and 35-inch off-road tires on forged 20-inch wheels. The track has also been widened.
There's also an unusual electronic feature called Flight Mode. Sensors detect when all four wheels leave the ground, after which the system adjusts traction delivery mid-air. This should reduce impact loads on the drivetrain upon landing after a jump.
The body features carbon fiber elements, riveted fender flares, additional underbody protection, roof-mounted air intakes, and a fixed metal roof. The interior has a 2+2 layout, sports seats, and the option to install four-point harnesses.
The first vehicles will be available for reservation in early 2027, and Land Rover promises to reveal additional specifications closer to the 2027 Dakar Rally. The price has not yet been announced.