Defender Dakar Street Legal Version
Registrations of interest for the road legal Defender Dakar are currently open and bookings will commence in early 2027
At the 2026 Monterey Car Week, the street legal version of the 2026 D7X-R racer named ‘Defender Dakar’ has been unveiled. Considering the Dakar-winning credentials of the D7X-R racer, the street legal version is likely to be positioned above the OCTA in terms of its performance and off-road capabilities. While not official, it is possible that Defender Dakar could be offered as a limited edition model.
59% more power than D7X-R
Road legal Defender Dakar has the same BMW sourced 4.4-liter Twin-Turbo V8 engine as used with the 2026 D7X-R racer. Since the road legal version is not restricted by motorsport regulations, it delivers much higher power and torque of 626 hp and 750 Nm. In comparison, the output of the D7X-R was capped at 394 hp. Defender Dakar has close to 59% higher power output than D7X-R.
Defender Dakar Street Legal Version
This engine has also been used with Defender OCTA, offering the same output. However, the power output with the recent OCTA facelift has been reduced to 533 hp. This makes the Defender Dakar a clear winner in terms of performance. In addition to the engine, Defender Dakar borrows most of the other parts from the D7X-R racer. These include the body structure, transmission and drivetrain.
Since it copies the exact body structure of the D7X-R racer, the Defender Dakar has a wider stance in comparison to standard Defender models. There are various other differentiating factors such as forged 20-inch alloy wheels, 35-inch all-terrain tyres and higher ground clearance. Defender Dakar also gets coil springs and Bilstein dampers.
Defender Dakar Street Legal Version
Based on the environment, there are dedicated driving modes for Dunes and Gravel. Users can also access the Flight Mode, which is designed to keep the vehicle stable and controllable when it gets airborne and lands. This is achieved via software settings that automatically adjust power delivery and other chassis controls.
Rugged, futuristic styling
Road legal versions usually have a relatively toned-down appearance to make them better suited for practical applications. However, Defender Dakar has chosen to be an exact copy of the D7X-R racer. The vehicle has a striking presence with features like riveted extended wheel arches, sharp body panelling and sporty alloys.
Defender Dakar Street Legal Version
Other highlights include circular LED DRLs, a chunky bumper in a blacked-out finish, carbon fibre bonnet, mud flaps, raised carbon fibre air intakes and roof lights. Defender Dakar also gets rally-grade underbody protection. While the body gets the Dakar Sand colour, the roof uses a conspicuous Yanbu Turquoise shade. This is the same colour combination used with the D7X-R racer.
Interior of the road legal Defender Dakar is yet to be revealed. However, it is expected that the SUV will have a 2+2 seating configuration. Several features could be borrowed from the D7X-R racer. The boot area has dedicated spaces for storing items like a spare wheel and air compressor.
Interested buyers can register their interest for the road legal Defender Dakar. More details about the SUV will be revealed during the 2027 Dakar Rally in January. This will be followed by bookings, expected to open in early 2027. Deliveries for Defender Dakar are expected to commence in mid-to-late 2027.