Land Rover Defender Dakar D7X-R SUV
The Dakar Rally is the world's most renowned — and possibly toughest — off-road race. Land Rover's Defender sub-brand will be entering the 2026 race as part of a full 2026 World Rally‑Raid Championship (W2RC) campaign with the Defender Dakar D7X‑R. It's built on the same assembly line as the brand's 110 OCTA variant, necessary to adhere to "Stock" category rules. Modifications include a wider track, increased ride height, a new suspension including Blistein dampers, and enhanced cooling for the 4.4‑liter twin‑turbo V8 engine, which will run on an advanced sustainable fuel. A specially developed Flight Mode automatically adjusts torque delivery from the engine to the wheels during jumps to ensure a smooth landing, and the rear seats have been removed to make way for extra spare wheels, a water tank, and various tools. It will make its competitive debut at the Dakar Rally in January 2026.

