Jamal Hameedi created the raptor, gt350r, etc for Ford Performance for many many years and now they have him leading this project. No surprise this thing is best in class.
That piece of road located in the foothills up and above cape town is absolutely amazing both dynamically and in terms of the view. Beautiful country. Thank you land rover for continuing to work with Sam on projects like these to allow him to bring us this great content on your cars. Even from South Africa. We want more collabs content in the future in more countries around the world.
@seenthroughglass i would suggest going with this style for a while. It has a freshness to it very 2025 . It's a little surprising to me after so long you still have this in you . Very impressive 👏
As a Defender owner, the OCTA takes every single strength of the Defender and makes its the best it can possibly be. From styling cues being exaggerated even futher, to the raw capability on and off road being pushed to an unbelievable level. Its easily one of the best automotive accompishments yet. What a machine. Bravo Land Rover. Great video
I have a 2021 Defender 110 with the V6. 65,000 miles. 0 problems. Spends every winter high in the Rocky mountains. It’s been 10 out of 10 amazing. This OCTA must be incredible.
Hi Sam, next time you come to CT please try set up a meet & greet for your fans, loved this video and the private collection you posted, we used to go camping with the family in Bains Kloof every Christmas more than 50 years ago.
Hi Sam, nice to see you have been to SA again! It would be great to meet up for a coffee on your next trip to Cape Town, Greg Mann 1972 Alfa Junior, cheers
Imagine this: you’re sipping coffee on a balcony overlooking a city skyline or lounging on a pristine beach, all while your investments are working their magic. With copytrading, you can finally pursue your passions, travel the world, and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. It’s all thanks to the power of copytrading from Sophia E. Haney and the life you’ve always dreamed of!
Guess what? I’m celebrating a $500k stock portfolio today! It all started with a modest $70k, and I’ve been making smart investments that have paid off tremendously. Now, I have the time to enjoy my family and plan for the future. Copy trading has been a game-changer for me.
Can't share much here, I take guidance from ‘Sophia E Haney’ a renowned figure in her industry with over two decades of work experience. I'd suggest you research her further on the web.
12:45 Did you see the sheer drop-off on those gravel roads? 😬 I know the grip is increadible but still, I wouldn't have been giving it quite that many beans.
Looks nice! And the views are gorgeous! Surprised you didn't run into elephants or more wildlife! Not sure what the "man flue" is but I've had a viral infection in the last few months. Sucks. Hope you feel better. You gotta admit...Dodge upped the HP game. When the Hellcat went to 777, everyone else including Land Rover wanted to up the HP too!
Great video! I currently own a 2023 V8 Defender and was wondering if the Octa was really worth the price difference. Thinking of placing an order but a little hesitant .. What do you think?
What an impressive machine. While I like to think your inner Colin McRae kicked in around the 13 minute mark on loose sand it did look like you basically had only physics and luck to get you from a slide into a rock embankment 😮….. Sadly these things will end up at high end car dealers for £200k like Alexander’s Romans, Tom Hartley doing little miles. But what a trip.
First thought: How can it be that the Defender Octa sounds better than the new M5? 2025 the year an off-road SUV sounds better than one of the, what should be, most desirable sport sedans.
I'll never go off-road. If they made an edition for just road use ala Porsche, I'd have it. From a reliability peespective, it just needs to have a non-BMW engine.
@lbco5229 i think people who like the car's looks and can afford generally don't care about these things. Over here in South Africa many Ranger Raptor reviews are full of comments by people complaining about fuel consumption, yet the Ranger Raptor is everywhere in the surburbs; it is being bought way more than the previous one that had good fuel consumption.
Wicked video. You’re definitely a certified JLR fan boy. It would be amazing if you could accept more stuff from the Germans though please. Many thanks.
Can never understand why the views of UA-cam presenters are seen by manufacturers as having an impact on sales. Does anyone actually buy a car on the basis of views by Sam or anyone similar. Suspect not.
I think they work. It’s one piece of easy research most folks do before they buy. Also, it’s probably cheap advertising vs TV or Google ads. Gets car enthusiasts (the people who watch these videos) talking about these cars too. I recently bought a used 200 Series Land Cruiser partially on UA-cam reviews (and how-to repairs).
It’s both. I can’t speak for the British, but in Austria and Germany, many people rely on reviews from German car reviewers before buying a car. A perfect example is the channel Autogefühl, or for electric cars, Carmaniac, which has provided clarity for many people! They may not film and edit as extravagantly as Sam, but their influence is significant.
You do know that we have to declare Paid Partnerships. As in, legally, I have to say “this is a sponsored video/paid partnership” … and I don’t accept commercial deals that involve reviewing a car
If they are a good PR team, then yes. If not, then it is what it is. I’d try and borrow a private car once they hit the market if I was desperate to have a go. But don’t forget, I’m not here as a journalist. I never planned or trained for this to be my life. So 9/10 experiences are awesome fun and enjoyable. If someone threw you the keys to a brand new £150k Defender and let you drive it through Africa for a day you’re probably going to have quite a good time to. I freely admit the “occasion” may sometimes cloud my judgement … but that’s why I try to share experiences rather than just doing straight up reviews.
@@seenthroughglass I like your channel Sam and appreciate the replies, more than most would do, you're a decent chap. I worry abit when I watch an ultra glowing review with no negatives..other than the cost maybe. As a previous owner of the latest Defender I can confirm that they are a hopeless heap, with appalling dealer support. Anyway, it was just my two-penneth, but a pretty video no doubt about that. Thanks again.
The V8 would struggle up the hill!!!!!! Give your head a wobble. They used to drive series 1 up there ya numpty. BUT drive slower around the wildlife, have some respect.
Tata is paying 'influencers' well to make advertisements for them. A luxury trip to SA, huh? "Such good cars to live with"? Really? Not incredibly expensive, unreliable, cumbersome, un-sporty, droney engines, poor performance (compared to hatchbacks, sedans, coupés and estates), cheap interior, poor ergonomics, poor infotainment, decrease safety for everyone?
I notice a few Manufacturers have been doing this over the years. I'm OK with that I'm not OK with the reviewers not doing what they normally do (giving their unbiased opinions) perhaps in fear of not getting one of these invites again
Jamal Hameedi created the raptor, gt350r, etc for Ford Performance for many many years and now they have him leading this project. No surprise this thing is best in class.
That makes a lot of sense:))
ua-cam.com/video/BzAGzPzV-xM/v-deo.html for an interview with Hameedi with The Smoking Tire podcast
Land Rover absolutely crushed it with these
Have to agree
@@doggedlydetermined7022 yeah they are definitely heavy enough!
"absolutely crushed it"
That piece of road located in the foothills up and above cape town is absolutely amazing both dynamically and in terms of the view. Beautiful country. Thank you land rover for continuing to work with Sam on projects like these to allow him to bring us this great content on your cars. Even from South Africa. We want more collabs content in the future in more countries around the world.
Is there a new editor. I must say this video was very light and felt very warm, great work, sam
Welcome to South Africa
No new editor. Just having fun with a few different styles and techniques
@seenthroughglass i would suggest going with this style for a while. It has a freshness to it very 2025 . It's a little surprising to me after so long you still have this in you . Very impressive 👏
It looks wonderfull!! I loved the video cinematography
As a Defender owner, the OCTA takes every single strength of the Defender and makes its the best it can possibly be. From styling cues being exaggerated even futher, to the raw capability on and off road being pushed to an unbelievable level. Its easily one of the best automotive accompishments yet. What a machine. Bravo Land Rover.
Great video
Thanks for watching and agree totally
What a wonderful wilderness SUV. Hope you get better soon Sam!
Just a thought, a Spotify playlist with all your fav songs would be cool, peep the Big Wild playing in the car 👀
One of your finest recently. Great car, awesome production and proper analysis. Better than many of the magazine channels production!
South Africa and the Defender OCTA, nice😁
the new cinematic and pov shots are fantastic
I’ve drove the baineskloof pass last year in a discovery 4 V8, it’s a real treat that pass.
Great vehicle, and very happy to see you having a good time in SA!
The best!
I have a 2021 Defender 110 with the V6. 65,000 miles. 0 problems. Spends every winter high in the Rocky mountains. It’s been 10 out of 10 amazing. This OCTA must be incredible.
My 90 has been deadly reliable too and very easy to live with as it just does everything. Best product LR have made in a long time.
Very scenic.
Great video, awesome roads….I look forward to seeing these in London, in their natural environment however…..
it´s amazing how land rover get it managed to get so much performance in such a heavy off-roader with gravel tyres. Pretty car and great job!
Really amazing engineering
Incredible footage, awesome showcase of the Octa!
Thank you
@seenthroughglass You're the man!
I like the 'ROOF' camera view,scenery was amazing...Ha!😎
Hi Sam, next time you come to CT please try set up a meet & greet for your fans, loved this video and the private collection you posted, we used to go camping with the family in Bains Kloof every Christmas more than 50 years ago.
Sam you have come a long way from that previous gen M5 review.. this is great stuff
Some great roads
Awesome as always!
Sin duda mi mi coche ideal para todo, simplemente espectacular en todos los sentidos.
Hi Sam, nice to see you have been to SA again! It would be great to meet up for a coffee on your next trip to Cape Town, Greg Mann 1972 Alfa Junior, cheers
I will be back!
@seenthroughglass great to hear! Keep your videos coming!
Shouldn't it have 8 wheels and squirt ink?
Imagine this: you’re sipping coffee on a balcony overlooking a city skyline or lounging on a pristine beach, all while your investments are working their magic. With copytrading, you can finally pursue your passions, travel the world, and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. It’s all thanks to the power of copytrading from Sophia E. Haney and the life you’ve always dreamed of!
Guess what? I’m celebrating a $500k stock portfolio today! It all started with a modest $70k, and I’ve been making smart investments that have paid off tremendously. Now, I have the time to enjoy my family and plan for the future. Copy trading has been a game-changer for me.
I’m curious, do you have a professional broker who helps you with your investments? If so, I’d love to learn more about how you work with them.
Can't share much here, I take guidance from ‘Sophia E Haney’ a renowned figure in her industry with over two decades of work experience. I'd suggest you research her further on the web.
Use her name to quickly conduct an internet search
SHE’S MOSTLY ON TELEGRAMS APPS WITH HER NAME
12:45 Did you see the sheer drop-off on those gravel roads? 😬 I know the grip is increadible but still, I wouldn't have been giving it quite that many beans.
Haha, my wife gave me a full telling off
@@seenthroughglass🫢😂
Awsome video as always
Schewpit money! A proper G-class rival. The plot isn't even lost, it's long forgotten.
That price tag! But it will absolutely not matter, they probably cannot build enough of these.
Knowing the South African market, We are definitely going to take it off road.
My new favourite vehicle…. In the world!
I need to visit South Africa. Wow, what a beautiful country!
Looks nice! And the views are gorgeous! Surprised you didn't run into elephants or more wildlife! Not sure what the "man flue" is but I've had a viral infection in the last few months. Sucks. Hope you feel better. You gotta admit...Dodge upped the HP game. When the Hellcat went to 777, everyone else including Land Rover wanted to up the HP too!
I'm glad I have 1 too
Will this come in 90,110&130 form or just 110?
Didn't Your Dad have an old Defender? ....You need this one Sam
Bain’s Kloof is epic.
Phev version of this gonna excellent for camping .
That will be highly tuneable so expect independent creating 700 and 900 bhp after market versions
I’m sure. But to be honest, 600 odd hp already feels unnecessary haha
@ agreed, but let’s see what brabus or other aftermarket’s come up with, inevitable.
Looks an amazing looker/ performer already tbh.
You could go on a road trip through Botswana or Zimbabwe into the national parks
For a country where the electricity is sporadically available the road quality looks amazing
That's your Drive the World 2.0 vehicle right there...
Defender octa vs. Mercedes G63. What's your pick?
Personally, OCTA
G63 ALL THE WAY MAN~No comparison
Wrangler territory tires in defender?😅
Love it- but i would prefer a 90 V8 with some Bowler ( doesn´t JLR own them now? ) treatment.
My favorite city in the world
Are they equipped with a catalytic converter, if so would they be termed the Octapus?
10:40. I like this 👌 😅
Sam! Show us your watch collection! Please 😊😙
Woow 👍👍🔥🔥🔥
Great video! I currently own a 2023 V8 Defender and was wondering if the Octa was really worth the price difference. Thinking of placing an order but a little hesitant ..
What do you think?
It’s a completely different car, largely down to the suspension!
What an impressive machine. While I like to think your inner Colin McRae kicked in around the 13 minute mark on loose sand it did look like you basically had only physics and luck to get you from a slide into a rock embankment 😮….. Sadly these things will end up at high end car dealers for £200k like Alexander’s Romans, Tom Hartley doing little miles. But what a trip.
South Africa has another testing track for super cars in the Northern Cape...."Bloodhound was tested in 2019 and it hit the speed of 628mph"🌈
Give me this over the G class every time
I am a big fan I wish you had visited me so I can see that landover I would like to hear and Cape down. 😭😭😭😱
Ah, Sam ol' boy? 360 Challenge Stradale update?
Not yet
First thought: How can it be that the Defender Octa sounds better than the new M5? 2025 the year an off-road SUV sounds better than one of the, what should be, most desirable sport sedans.
THERES A BABOON 😂😂😂
I'm they went the ultimate off-road route with the Octa, i feel like the g63 was made with off roading as an afterthought.
Wow JLR doing a re-brand of an established part of their model range. I wonder why a successful manufacturer like BMW hasn’t thought of that?
The colour is very bond villain not sure you wouldn’t do better with the white roof in Africa
you should have come to mauritius
❤❤❤
12:52 that looks bum clenching! 🤣
❤
Want ❤
I rarely see journalist talking about the trick “Body and Soul System” seats. Is it really just a gimmick? 😂
Makes me feel sick
@@seenthroughglass😂
Damm that road looks dangerous
10/10 review of the South African road. Unfortunately like a 2/10 review of the car. I don't even know how many seat it has 😂
It's all about the drivers seat anyway in this one! 😉
I want one.
Welcome to SA, you can't leave SA without eating biltong bru😅
Of course it’s amazing, the engine is from BMW
Hope you have good life insurance
🤣
Perfect car for drive the world part two?
Yes. And yes
I'll wait 6 years and that suv will be 10k in Canada.
I'll never go off-road. If they made an edition for just road use ala Porsche, I'd have it. From a reliability peespective, it just needs to have a non-BMW engine.
Canceled my order - wouldn’t paint it green.
Waving at a baboon -class 😂
Women: you don’t know pain like giving birth! Sam: Idk, I recently had a pretty bad case of man flu while traveling the world
Legit.
Lovely but the damn thing is the size of a transit van. Just too big for me.
Late to the party man
They look incredible- however, way overpriced! Have they resolved their reputation of poor reliability?
That's the whole point. Some people just don't want to own cars that many of us can afford.
This model never had a poor reputation. I’ve had mine for 65,000 miles - perfect reliability.
@lbco5229 i think people who like the car's looks and can afford generally don't care about these things.
Over here in South Africa many Ranger Raptor reviews are full of comments by people complaining about fuel consumption, yet the Ranger Raptor is everywhere in the surburbs; it is being bought way more than the previous one that had good fuel consumption.
Looks like my gran did the stitching on that wheel
I will get why offroaders need 600hp but oh well
£150000 what are landrover smoking 😂😂😂😂
Why has everyone in the country started using the word ‘vibe’, stop it
Wicked video. You’re definitely a certified JLR fan boy. It would be amazing if you could accept more stuff from the Germans though please. Many thanks.
Yep
And then it brakes down as all Range and Land Rover always do, money pits
Those seats look so cheap and crappy.. dacia duster has nicer seats..
Otherwise a very cool car and nice video
I love driving fast off road.
I see losing your voice had an affect on this one Sam
Sadly yes but hope you still enjoy the content
@@seenthroughglass Best content on youtube mate
Can never understand why the views of UA-cam presenters are seen by manufacturers as having an impact on sales. Does anyone actually buy a car on the basis of views by Sam or anyone similar. Suspect not.
Many people do!
I think they work. It’s one piece of easy research most folks do before they buy. Also, it’s probably cheap advertising vs TV or Google ads. Gets car enthusiasts (the people who watch these videos) talking about these cars too. I recently bought a used 200 Series Land Cruiser partially on UA-cam reviews (and how-to repairs).
It’s about building brand, not purely sales. Kids watch these videos and become aspirational for when they can afford them. Long game.
It’s both. I can’t speak for the British, but in Austria and Germany, many people rely on reviews from German car reviewers before buying a car. A perfect example is the channel Autogefühl, or for electric cars, Carmaniac, which has provided clarity for many people! They may not film and edit as extravagantly as Sam, but their influence is significant.
Savvy car buyers do watch reviews before they pull the trigger.
Another LR sponsored road test...amazed it didn't breakdown. Getting abit obvious Sam....
You do know that we have to declare Paid Partnerships. As in, legally, I have to say “this is a sponsored video/paid partnership” … and I don’t accept commercial deals that involve reviewing a car
@seenthroughglass ok fair enough but it must be impossible to be truly objective, if you are too critical will they ask you again?
If they are a good PR team, then yes. If not, then it is what it is. I’d try and borrow a private car once they hit the market if I was desperate to have a go.
But don’t forget, I’m not here as a journalist. I never planned or trained for this to be my life. So 9/10 experiences are awesome fun and enjoyable.
If someone threw you the keys to a brand new £150k Defender and let you drive it through Africa for a day you’re probably going to have quite a good time to. I freely admit the “occasion” may sometimes cloud my judgement … but that’s why I try to share experiences rather than just doing straight up reviews.
@@seenthroughglass I like your channel Sam and appreciate the replies, more than most would do, you're a decent chap. I worry abit when I watch an ultra glowing review with no negatives..other than the cost maybe. As a previous owner of the latest Defender I can confirm that they are a hopeless heap, with appalling dealer support. Anyway, it was just my two-penneth, but a pretty video no doubt about that. Thanks again.
These roads look AI generated wth!
They look so unreal
It was an amazing trip!
🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦
Ok , so after all that hot air, and nothing substantial, re-do the test in proper 4-wheel drive conditions. Please for peets sake
The V8 would struggle up the hill!!!!!! Give your head a wobble. They used to drive series 1 up there ya numpty.
BUT drive slower around the wildlife, have some respect.
I think the Lexus GX550 is a much superior built vehicle. 😊
Tata is paying 'influencers' well to make advertisements for them. A luxury trip to SA, huh?
"Such good cars to live with"? Really? Not incredibly expensive, unreliable, cumbersome, un-sporty, droney engines, poor performance (compared to hatchbacks, sedans, coupés and estates), cheap interior, poor ergonomics, poor infotainment, decrease safety for everyone?
The car is advertised for the rich. Are you going to complain about Koenigsegg Jesko and Bugatti Tourbillion too?
I notice a few Manufacturers have been doing this over the years. I'm OK with that
I'm not OK with the reviewers not doing what they normally do (giving their unbiased opinions) perhaps in fear of not getting one of these invites again
Tata aren't doing anything. They simply give JLR funding. They don't involve in advertising the land rover models etc
You're truly pathetic.
Sounds like sour grapes to me