Land Rover Defender Dakar D7X-R Unveiled Ahead of 2026 Dakar Debut
Land Rover has unveiled the Defender Dakar D7X‑R rally SUV ahead of its maiden appearance in the 2026 Dakar Rally, pushing its off‑road engineering deeper into the world of desert racing and global rally‑raid motorsport. Based on the robust Defender Octa’s D7X platform, this rally‑prepped SUV is built for extreme endurance, dune punishment and long‑distance competition in the World Rally‑Raid Championship (W2RC).
What’s New For Dakar
The Defender Dakar D7X‑R features a wider track and increased ride height supported by new heavy‑duty suspension components co‑developed with Bilstein. Huge 35‑inch off‑road tyres boost ground clearance and stability over rugged terrain.
Land Rover has reinforced the chassis further with a high‑strength roll cage, front skid plate and extra under‑body protection. A massive 550‑litre fuel tank helps cover long rally stages without frequent stops.
Twin‑Turbo V8 With Rally‑Ready Cooling
The SUV is powered by the 4.4‑litre twin‑turbo V8 from the Defender Octa, paired with an 8‑speed automatic gearbox. To comply with the Dakar ‘Stock’ regulations, power output is restricted using an air‑intake limiter.
Cooling has been heavily upgraded. The D7X‑R uses a single large radiator supported by four 12‑volt fans, ensuring safe temperatures even at low‑speed dune climbs. A particle filter reduces sand intrusion in the engine bay.
Minimal Cabin, Maximum Focus
The exterior wears a desert‑inspired Geopalette livery with redesigned bumpers for improved approach and departure angles. The cabin strips out luxuries for rally focus — fixed windows with small portholes, lightweight panels, custom‑moulded race seats, and six‑point harnesses. It also carries rally essentials like hydraulic jacks, spares and onboard water supply.
Driver Line‑Up For Dakar
Land Rover has assembled a strong team, including 14‑time Dakar champion Stéphane Peterhansel with co‑driver Mika Metge. Dakar stage‑winner Sara Price will join the squad along with Rokas Baciuška and their support crews.
As Land Rover returns to one of the world’s toughest motorsport challenges, the Defender Dakar D7X‑R promises to be a dramatic showcase of the brand’s off‑road engineering and performance ambitions.
