The Defender brand hosted a second collaboration with South by Southwest Sydney (SXSW) during the futurist festival’s program at the ICC from October 14 to 20.
From its 1987 origins in Austin, Texas, Penske Media owns 50% of SXSW, which describes itself as a destination where tech, music, film, education and culture converge.
In addition to the static Destination Defender display of vehicles at Tumbalong Park, where guests were fed and watered by Harry’s of Bondi, prospective customers could also take their preferred new model on a test drive to Hyde Park or Bondi Beach from the ICC car park during the SXSW Festival.
In addition, the Defender House activation, which is by invitation only, returned to the Machine Hall on Clarence Street on October 18 and 19 for the second consecutive year.
The new V8 Defender OCTA was the show’s star at Defender House, where guests could inspect the vehicle and learn more about it through an interactive display journey.
In addition, Defender House guests were also treated to specially curated events and exclusive experiences that reflected the lifestyle the brand’s owners enjoyed.
The Defender House program included guests being treated to honey and whiskey tasting, engaging in a fragrance journey with the Tom Ford scent studio, complimentary yoga sessions, and panel sessions hosted by the Wallabies, freediver Ant Williams, and DJ Chris Keen.
“We were excited to showcase the new Defender OCTA at SXSW Sydney; it defines breadth of capability and the ultimate companion for the urban jungle with the ability to take on nature’s most epic adventures,” JLR Australia managing director Penny Ferguson says.
Powered by a 4.4‑litre Twin Turbo mild‑hybrid V8 engine, the OCTA model is the most potent Defender yet, with 467kW and up to 750Nm of torque, enabling 0‑100km/h in 4 seconds.
Heavily revised chassis components and innovative technologies, including 6D Dynamics suspension, ensure the car’s dynamic capabilities are elevated to new heights.
The exterior is bolder and tougher than ever, with a distinct character. The ride height is raised, its stance widened, and wheel arches extended for incredible presence.
Redesigned bumpers improve approach and departure angles, while rugged underbody protection gives drivers the confidence to explore further over rough terrain. It will also wade deeper than any production Defender before it—through up to one metre of water.
