Land Rover has officially revealed the Defender Dakar D7X-R, a high-performance rally variant of its popular off-roader, set to make its motorsport debut at the 2026 Dakar Rally in January. The debut marks Land Rover’s full entry into the 2026 World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC), underscoring its renewed commitment to competitive endurance racing. Built on the formidable Defender Octa platform, the Dakar D7X-R has been meticulously engineered to meet FIA regulations for the Stock category while maintaining the Defender’s signature blend of ruggedness and capability.
The Defender Dakar D7X-R stays true to its core architecture, retaining the Defender Octa’s tough tD7x body structure, 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, and robust AWD drivetrain. However, significant modifications have been introduced to meet the extreme endurance requirements of the Dakar. The SUV now features a massive 550-litre rear fuel tank designed for long stages, a comprehensive roll cage for safety, and 35-inch competition tires for superior traction. Engineers have also widened the track by 60 mm and raised the suspension to enhance ground clearance and stability across punishing desert terrains.
Although the V8 engine remains mechanically identical to the production version, FIA regulations have imposed a power-limiting air intake restrictor to ensure compliance with Stock category standards. To tackle desert temperatures and fine sand, Land Rover’s engineers redesigned the cooling system, replacing the standard three-radiator layout with a single, enlarged front radiator supported by four high-output fans. Additional ducts on the bonnet and a central particle filtration system further improve airflow and protect key components. Roof-mounted air intakes and light pods give the Defender a commanding and functional rally presence.
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Durability has taken center stage in Land Rover’s testing program. The Defender Rally team has already completed over 6,000 km of off-road trials with the new D7X-R prototype, simulating some of the harshest Dakar conditions across gravel, dunes, and rocky terrain. According to the brand, these tests have validated the D7X-R’s endurance under relentless load and extreme heat, ensuring it will be battle-ready when the 2026 Dakar Rally commences in Saudi Arabia on January 3.
The Defender Dakar D7X-R also runs on sustainable competition-grade fuel, fully compliant with FIA environmental guidelines, marking a step forward in eco-conscious motorsport engineering. Next year’s race will not only test the vehicle’s mechanical strength but also establish Land Rover’s standing among elite rally manufacturers. The brand’s legendary durability, combined with cutting-edge design and sustainability, positions the D7X-R as one of the most anticipated contenders in the rally-raid circuit.
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