The Land Rover Defender Octa, set to be launched in 2025, has been tested by the author in an environment where gas prices are expected to reach historic highs across the U.S. and are predicted to continue rising. The new Defender, which surpasses the already-potent Defender V8 with a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged engine, has 626 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque and can reach 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds. Despite its aggressive driving style and aggressive acceleration claims, the car's performance was criticized for being greedy. The cost of the $159,925 (including $1,625 destination) for a 2026 example is also considered. The author also noted that the Defender Octoza's off-road-ready air suspension, big tires, and a plurality of away-from-asphalt drive modes were all present. Despite these criticisms, the author found it to be a great value for the off-roading experience. The article also notes that while the car has a carbon footprint is considered a significant carbon footprint, it is not the thirstiest in the current line-up.