Registrations of curiosity for the street authorized Defender Dakar are at the moment open and bookings will start in early 2027
On the 2026 Monterey Automobile Week, the road authorized model of the 2026 D7X-R racer named ‘Defender Dakar’ has been unveiled. Contemplating the Dakar-winning credentials of the D7X-R racer, the road authorized model is prone to be positioned above the OCTA by way of its efficiency and off-road capabilities. Whereas not official, it’s potential that Defender Dakar may very well be provided as a restricted version mannequin.
59% extra energy than D7X-R
Highway authorized Defender Dakar has the identical BMW sourced 4.4-liter Twin-Turbo V8 engine as used with the 2026 D7X-R racer. For the reason that street authorized model just isn’t restricted by motorsport rules, it delivers a lot larger energy and torque of 626 hp and 750 Nm. Compared, the output of the D7X-R was capped at 394 hp. Defender Dakar has near 59% larger energy output than D7X-R.
This engine has additionally been used with Defender OCTA, providing the identical output. Nevertheless, the facility output with the current OCTA facelift has been lowered to 533 hp. This makes the Defender Dakar a transparent winner by way of efficiency. Along with the engine, Defender Dakar borrows many of the different components from the D7X-R racer. These embrace the physique construction, transmission and drivetrain.
Because it copies the precise physique construction of the D7X-R racer, the Defender Dakar has a wider stance compared to commonplace Defender models. There are numerous different differentiating elements reminiscent of cast 20-inch alloy wheels, 35-inch all-terrain tyres and better floor clearance. Defender Dakar additionally will get coil springs and Bilstein dampers.
Primarily based on the surroundings, there are devoted driving modes for Dunes and Gravel. Customers also can entry the Flight Mode, which is designed to maintain the car steady and controllable when it will get airborne and lands. That is achieved by way of software program settings that robotically modify energy supply and different chassis controls.
Rugged, futuristic styling
Highway authorized variations often have a comparatively toned-down look to make them higher fitted to sensible functions. Nevertheless, Defender Dakar has chosen to be an actual copy of the D7X-R racer. The car has a placing presence with options like riveted prolonged wheel arches, sharp physique panelling and sporty alloys.
Different highlights embrace round LED DRLs, a chunky bumper in a blacked-out end, carbon fibre bonnet, mud flaps, raised carbon fibre air intakes and roof lights. Defender Dakar additionally will get rally-grade underbody safety. Whereas the physique will get the Dakar Sand color, the roof makes use of a conspicuous Yanbu Turquoise shade. This is similar color mixture used with the D7X-R racer.
Inside of the street authorized Defender Dakar is but to be revealed. Nevertheless, it’s anticipated that the SUV could have a 2+2 seating configuration. A number of options may very well be borrowed from the D7X-R racer. The boot space has devoted areas for storing gadgets like a spare wheel and air compressor.
consumers can register their curiosity for the street authorized Defender Dakar. Extra particulars concerning the SUV will probably be revealed throughout the 2027 Dakar Rally in January. This will probably be adopted by bookings, anticipated to open in early 2027. Deliveries for Defender Dakar are anticipated to start in mid-to-late 2027.
