All Octa models feature a contrasting gloss black roof and tailgate. Inside, it gets new performance seats with a 3D-knit texture, an integrated headrest and a seamless finish, something that will be made available in other JLR vehicles soon.
The Octa also features the top-rung 11.4in infotainment screen, a centre console fridge and Burnt Sienna semi-aniline leather as standard.
Priced from £145,300, the limited-run Octa is not only a crucial source of revenue generation for future product development, particularly the electrification of all four JLR brands, but it also shows how far the Defender brand can be taken, JLR UK boss Patrick McGillycuddy told Autocar.
He said: “The capability and breadth of the brand is immense, as is now the capability and breadth of the product. “We limit the volume to give these cars a special appeal, but they’ve also got to be incredible things – incredibly well engineered.”
The most hardcore variant will be the launch-spec £158,000 Year One edition, which has the top-rung tyres, 20in wheels, a roof box and a rear ladder. It is marked out from the standard Octa by carbonfibre detailing, Faroe Green paint and khaki interior features.
The more road-focused Octa (half of owners never take their Defenders off the Tarmac) comes with 22in alloys with all-season tyres and retractable side steps.