13 Jul 2025
There are off-roaders, and then there’s the Defender. With its roots in the post-war British countryside and a reputation forged across deserts, mountains, and jungle trails, Defender has always done more than get from A to B—it makes the journey unforgettable. Now, the 2026 Model Year update sets a new benchmark, seamlessly merging cutting-edge performance with tactile luxury and purposeful design.
Set to arrive in Australia from October 2025, the latest Defender range is more distinctive than ever across its 90, 110, and 130 variants, including the commanding Defender OCTA. From the moment you see the refined front and rear bumpers, redesigned smoked tail lights, and contemporary colours like Woolstone Green and Borasco Grey, it’s clear this is no ordinary evolution. The design revisions are subtle but impactful, exuding a clean toughness that speaks to both heritage and modernity.
Under the hood, upgrades continue with the addition of the P425 5.0-litre supercharged V8 to the 90 and 110 line-ups, offering 313kW and 550Nm of torque—accelerating the Defender 90 from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.6 seconds. This joins a robust range of mild-hybrid diesels and plug-in hybrids, ensuring drivers can find their ideal balance between power and efficiency. And for those who demand the absolute extreme, the Defender OCTA delivers with 467kW twin-turbo V8 power, innovative 6D Dynamics suspension, and off-road-ready OCTA Mode.
Inside, technology meets intuition. A new 13.1-inch touchscreen now anchors the cabin, while thoughtful updates like a sliding centre console cubby, removable side pockets, and hidden charging compartments enhance day-to-day usability. For the trailblazers, Adaptive Off-Road Cruise Control debuts as an option—adjusting vehicle speed over rough terrain for optimal comfort—while a driver-facing attention monitor adds peace of mind on long-haul drives.
Personalisation also steps up, with new alloy wheel designs, chopped carbon fibre accents, and a textured Graphite finish giving each Defender model its own unmistakable presence. Meanwhile, new accessory packs—including an integrated air compressor for the 130 and a 4,500kg-rated winch for the OCTA—ensure adventure is always within reach.
These upgrades are about refinement without compromise. Built for those who refuse to choose between capability and character, it’s a vehicle that honours its past while staying firmly planted in the now—ready for whatever comes next.
Explore more at www.landrover.com.au/defender.
