10 Reasons the 2025 Defender OCTA Owns Quebec's Summer Roads and Trails
May 28 2025,
Quebec summers are short and sweet. You need a vehicle that can handle both the smooth highways to Mont-Tremblant and the rough trails through La Mauricie. The 2025 Land Rover Defender OCTA does both without breaking a sweat.
This isn't your average luxury SUV. With 626 horsepower and special off-road tech, the OCTA tackles terrain that would leave other vehicles stuck. Here are 10 reasons why it's built for Quebec adventures.
1- The V8 Engine Pulls You Up Any Mountain
The 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 makes 626 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. That's enough power to climb the steepest logging roads around Lac-Saint-Jean or pass slow traffic on Highway 117.
The engine delivers torque from just 1,800 rpm. This means strong pulling power whether you're crawling over rocks or accelerating onto the highway. The 0-60 mph time of 3.8 seconds beats many sports cars.
2- Wade Through Rivers Up to One Metre Deep
Many Quebec backroads have water crossings, especially after spring rain. The OCTA can drive through water up to one metre deep—deeper than any other Defender model.
The vehicle sits 28mm higher than regular Defenders. Special seals protect the engine and electronics. A wade sensing system tells you exactly how deep the water is, so you know when it's safe to cross.
3- Advanced Suspension Handles Any Surface
The 6D Dynamics suspension uses connected hydraulic dampers to keep the vehicle stable. On twisty roads like Route 138, it handles like a much smaller vehicle.
Off-road, the same system lets each wheel move independently over rocks and ruts. The computer adjusts the suspension hundreds of times per second. Your passengers stay comfortable whether you're on smooth pavement or rough trails.
4- OCTA Mode Makes Gravel Roads Fun
Press and hold the steering wheel button to activate OCTA Mode. This setting is made for fast driving on dirt and gravel—perfect for Quebec's countless unpaved roads.
The mode includes:
- Off-Road Launch Control for quick starts
- Special ABS tuning for better braking on loose surfaces
- Adjusted steering and throttle response
5- Massive 33-Inch Tires Grip Everything
These are the biggest tires ever put on a production Defender. Goodyear designed them specifically for the OCTA. They work well on both highways and trails.
The tires fit in wheel arches that are 68mm wider than standard. This gives the OCTA a stable, planted stance. The tire design provides good grip on wet rocks, loose gravel, and sandy beaches.
6- Performance Seats Keep You Comfortable All Day
Long drives require good seats. The OCTA's Performance Seats have extra side support and built-in headrests. You can get them in leather or tough synthetic materials that handle wet swimsuits and muddy boots.
The optional Body and Soul technology lets you feel your music through the seats. It also has six relaxation programs for when you're tired from driving.
7- Limited Edition One Models Stand Out
The Edition One comes only in Faroe Green—a colour that looks like Quebec's deep forests. Real carbon fibre trim appears on the hood, fenders, and inside the cabin.
Land Rover only makes Edition One models for the first year. The exclusive paint and trim make your OCTA as rare as it is capable.
8- Four Terrain Modes Plus OCTA Mode
|
Mode |
Best For |
What It Does |
|---|---|---|
|
Sand |
Beach driving |
Reduces wheelspin |
|
Mud/Ruts |
Wet trails |
Maximizes traction |
|
Grass/Gravel/Snow |
Winter/loose surfaces |
Balances grip and momentum |
|
Rock Crawl |
Technical terrain |
Precise throttle control |
|
OCTA Mode |
Fast off-road driving |
Sport settings for dirt |
The computer can also detect what you're driving on and adjust automatically.
9- Racing Brakes Stop You Safely
The front brakes measure 400mm across with Brembo 6-piston calipers. These are racing-quality parts that work well even after repeated hard use.
The large brakes matter on steep mountain roads. They stay strong during long downhill sections without fading. In OCTA Mode, the ABS adjusts for better control on gravel.
10- The Exhaust Note Turns Heads
Four exhaust pipes produce a deep V8 sound. In Comfort mode, it stays quiet for early morning starts. Switch to Dynamic or OCTA mode, and the exhaust opens up.
The mild-hybrid system keeps the engine efficient on highways. But when you want to hear that V8, the active exhaust delivers.
Ready for Your Next Adventure?
The 2025 Defender OCTA brings supercar performance to Quebec's roughest roads. With Edition One models available for just the first year, now's the time to secure yours. Contact Decarie Motors Land Rover today to book your test drive and feel what 626 horses can do on your favourite backroad.
