The original Defender may not have officially made its way to India, but the new one has certainly made a mark since its launch. It has quickly become one of Land Rover’s most successful models, defying initial doubts. With its rugged appearance, impressive on- and off-road capabilities, and comfortable interior, the Land Rover Defender seems to offer a well-rounded package. But how does it fare in the real world? Let’s take this SUV out for a test drive to find out.
One of the first things that catch your eye about the Defender is its unique ability to exude a sense of ruggedness and sophistication simultaneously. This duality in its appeal has attracted a wide range of customers, from those seeking a robust off-roader to others in search of a luxurious SUV. The exterior design is a modern rendition of the classic Defender, blending classic elements with contemporary styling. While the new Defender comes in three body lengths, it stands out amidst other similarly priced SUVs with its commanding presence on the road.
Moving to the interior, Land Rover has ingeniously infused some off-road character into the luxurious cabin. The rugged yet durable elements, along with the presence of physical buttons, add a distinct charm. The 11.4-inch touchscreen is loaded with features, including off-road-centric functions like a 360-degree view. The cabin offers ample space, enhanced by a panoramic sunroof and rear portal windows. The seats are comfortable, the driving position is commanding, and the rear passengers have their climate control zone. Despite its luxurious touches, the Defender remains practical, with the ability to fold down the rear seat for larger cargo.
Powering the Defender is a range of engines, including V8 models and diesel options. The test car we tried was equipped with a 2-liter four-cylinder petrol engine generating 296 bhp and 40.78 kg-m of torque. This variant can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds, delivering a linear power delivery. The power is distributed to all four wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission. With an average fuel consumption of around 10 km/l, the Defender manages its weight of 2,268 kilos effectively.
Built on Land Rover’s mono platform, the Defender is ready to tackle any terrain. The Terrain Response System allows drivers to choose specific terrains, automatically adjusting the SUV’s settings for optimal performance. Additionally, new-age tech features like a water-wading radar enhance the Defender’s off-road capabilities. Despite its off-road prowess, the Defender’s on-road handling is impressive, with excellent ride quality and low NVH levels. The steering is light at slow speeds but firms up nicely for better control.
The new Defender has successfully revived an iconic nameplate with its well-executed design and performance. Priced starting from ₹1.04 crore for the 2025 model, the Defender stands out as a characterful and versatile choice in the market. Its combination of ruggedness, luxury, and functionality has undoubtedly contributed to its success as a popular SUV.
