Land Rover reveals the Defender Dakar D7X-R prototype, set to debut at the 2026 Dakar Rally. The production-based SUV features a 4.4L twin-turbo V8 and has completed desert testing in Morocco.
Land Rover is officially entering the world of rally-raid racing, unveiling its new Defender Dakar D7X-R prototype ahead of its debut at the 2026 Dakar Rally and World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC). The new rally-ready Defender has already completed its first round of testing in Morocco’s tough desert terrain.
The Defender D7X-R is based on the upcoming Defender Octa and will compete in the ‘Stock’ category—meant for production-based vehicles. It retains the rugged D7x aluminum monocoque, along with the standard drivetrain and transmission. Under the hood, it packs a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine. While official power figures haven’t been confirmed, it’s expected to deliver the same 626 bhp and 750 Nm as the production Defender Octa.
For its Dakar and W2RC campaign, Land Rover is fielding a strong driver lineup. Dakar legend Stéphane Peterhansel, who holds 14 Dakar titles, will lead the charge alongside young Lithuanian talent Rokas Baciuška, a rising name in rally-raid events since 2022. Land Rover will enter three Defender D7X-Rs for the 2026 Dakar Rally and two cars for the rest of the W2RC season.
“This is a huge milestone,” said JLR Motorsport Managing Director James Barclay. “Stéphane brings unmatched experience, and Rokas is one of the brightest young talents in the sport.”
Visually, the Defender Dakar D7X-R carries a heavily camouflaged exterior for now. Its appearance hints at a more rugged version of the Defender Octa, with a raised stance, rally-specific suspension, and larger ground clearance for tackling extreme terrain. The wheels also resemble the Octa’s design but appear modified for rally performance.
The prototype has been put through demanding desert trials in the Sahara to test its reliability, durability, and off-road capabilities ahead of its motorsport debut.
Land Rover will reveal the Defender D7X-R in full later this year, with the official rally debut scheduled for January 2026.
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