Jaguar Land Rover Defender has revived the V8 in the Defender for India, bringing back the thrill of open roads and powerful performance. After being discontinued in 2024, the V8 is back with a starting price of Rs 1.39 crore. Available as a completely built-up unit (CBU), the Defender comes in 90, 110, and 130 versions. While the full-price list isn’t out yet, excitement is building.
Land Rover Defender in India: From Strong to Stylish
It started as a vehicle built for a purpose—no extra features, No unnecessary design, just pure function pure, unshakable strength. The Land Rover Defender made its way into India, not with a grand entrance but with a quiet determined car designed to endure, conquer, and handle the country’s tough landscapes.
- 1948, the Series I was born in Amsterdam—a prototype that promised a legacy, a vehicle that would shape the future.
- 1950s, the Defender made its way to India, trusted by farmers, relied on by industries, and used by the military. Its durability, adaptability, and strength made it unstoppable.
- 1983, the One Ten debuted, followed by the Ninety in 1984-improvements in design, with coil-spring suspension and permanent four-wheel drive.
- 1990, the iconic Defender 110 and Defender 90 were born, solidifying their legendary status.
- 2009, Jaguar Land Rover made its official entrance in India. The Land Rover Defender was no longer just an imported CBU—it had arrived to claim its place.
- 2011, a factory in Pune was established, making the dream of owning a Defender more accessible and real.
- 2016, the original Land Rover Defender line ended, and the world bid farewell, while India paused to honor its legacy of toughness.
- 2020, the Land Rover Defender returned with the 90 and 110 variants—combining off-road prowess with modern technology, making rugged elegance.
- 2024, the Land Rover Defender Octa arrived with a twin-turbo V8 engine—powerful yet purposeful, a true beast for the bold.
- And now, in 2025, the V8 returns to India, blending performance, luxury, and a spirit that never fades.
What’s So Special About the 2025 Land Rover Defender?
For years, the V8 engine was exclusive to the top-tier Land Rover Defenders. Now, it’s available in the X-Dynamic HSE and X trims. Under the hood, you’ll find a 5.0-liter V8 engine delivering 426hp and 610Nm of torque. All three body styles come with this powerful engine, the Terrain Response system, and air suspension as standard. It rides on tough 20-inch wheels fitted with all-terrain tires.
The 518hp version is no longer available, but the 2.0-litre petrol engine remains in the 110 X-Dynamic HSE trim. The dependable 3.0-litre diesel engine across all body styles, is offered in trims like X-Dynamic HSE, X, and the Sedona Edition.
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Exploring the Land Rover Defender’s Interior
The Land Rover Defender goes beyond just strength; it offers a luxurious experience. The 14-way powered front seats, with heating and cooling, remember your ideal position. Stay effortlessly connected with the 11.4-inch touchscreen, while the panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, and 360-degree cameras enhance every journey. Looking for more? You can customize with options like the Meridian Sound System, a center-console fridge, or special packs like Cold Climate and Advanced Off-Road.
The Land Rover Defender 130: The Ultimate Space
For families constantly on the move, the Defender 130 comes with both 7- and 8-seater options. One option includes middle-row captain’s chairs that are ventilated & provide extra comfort on long trips. The other features a traditional 2+3+3 seating arrangement, offering the perfect balance of space and versatility.
This isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a statement. A seamless combination of adventure, power, and comfort. You don’t buy a Defender to fit in you buy it to stand out and, perhaps, to rediscover what freedom truly feels like.
