The Land Rover Defender has long been a symbol of ultimate off-road capability and luxury. In January 2026, it continues to be one of the most sought-after premium SUVs in the Indian market. Known for its boxy yet modern design, the Defender has managed to bridge the gap between a rugged mountain-climber and a sophisticated city cruiser.
Whether you are looking for the compact 3-door 90, the versatile 5-door 110, or the extended 8-seater 130, the Defender offers a wide range of choices. With the recent launch of the high-performance “Octa” variant, the lineup has reached new heights of power and prestige.
Land Rover Defender Price List 2026 (Ex-Showroom)
The pricing for the Defender in India is diverse, reflecting the massive variety of engines and body styles available. As of January 2026, the ex-showroom prices are as follows:
- Defender 90 (3-Door): Starts from ₹98.00 Lakh and goes up to ₹1.65 Crore for top-end V8 trims.
- Defender 110 (5-Door): The most popular choice, ranging between ₹1.05 Crore and ₹1.50 Crore for standard trims.
- Defender 130 (8-Seater): Aimed at larger families, priced between ₹1.40 Crore and ₹1.85 Crore.
- Defender Octa (Flagship): The most powerful version, starting at approximately ₹2.60 Crore.
Please note that the on-road price in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore will be significantly higher due to RTO charges, insurance, and the 1% TCS. In many metro cities, the on-road price for the top-end models can cross the ₹3.20 Crore mark.
Key Variants and Engine Options
Land Rover offers the Defender with multiple heartbeats to suit different driving needs. You can choose from a 2.0L Petrol, a 3.0L Diesel (which remains a favorite for its high torque), and a massive 5.0L V8 for those who crave raw performance.
The introduction of the Defender Octa has changed the game. It features a 4.4L twin-turbo V8 engine capable of hitting 0-100 km/h in just 4 seconds. Beyond the engines, the trim levels like X-Dynamic HSE, Sedona Edition, and the Trophy Edition allow buyers to customize the aesthetics from “rugged explorer” to “luxury lounge.”
Why the Defender is Popular in India
The Defender’s success in India isn’t just about the badge; it’s about the “go-anywhere” confidence it provides. With a ground clearance of 291 mm and a wading depth of 900 mm, it is practically immune to the waterlogging and broken roads often seen during Indian monsoons.
Inside, the tech is just as impressive. The Pivi Pro infotainment system with its 11.4-inch touchscreen is intuitive and stays updated via software-over-the-air. The use of durable yet premium materials means the interior can handle a bit of mud from a weekend trip to the hills without losing its luxury feel.
Future Outlook: Local Assembly and Price Cuts
There is significant talk in the industry about the local assembly (CKD) of the Defender in India. Currently, the Defender is imported as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), which attracts high import duties. Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has already localized the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport, leading to massive price drops of up to ₹30 Lakh.
If JLR starts assembling the Defender at its Pune plant later this year, we could see a 15-20% reduction in prices. This move would make the Defender much more competitive against rivals like the BMW X7 and the Mercedes-Benz GLS. For now, buyers are closely watching official announcements from JLR India regarding the timeline for this transition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the cheapest Defender model in India?
The most affordable entry point is typically the Defender 110 or 90 with the 2.0L Petrol engine in the X-Dynamic HSE trim, starting around ₹98 Lakh to ₹1 Crore (ex-showroom).
How many people can sit in a Land Rover Defender?
It depends on the model. The Defender 90 usually seats 5, the Defender 110 can be configured as a 5-seater or a 5+2 (7-seater), and the Defender 130 is a full 8-seater with three rows of proper seating.
Is the Defender 130 available in India?
Yes, the Land Rover Defender 130 is available in India. it is designed for those who need maximum space and features a longer body to accommodate eight adults comfortably.
What is the mileage of the Land Rover Defender?
Mileage varies by engine. The 3.0L Diesel offers around 10-12 kmpl on highways, while the powerful V8 petrol engines usually deliver between 6-8 kmpl depending on driving conditions.
Will the price of the Defender go down in 2026?
There is a possibility of a price drop if Land Rover begins local assembly (CKD) in India. While not officially confirmed for early 2026, industry reports suggest it is the next logical step for JLR to boost sales.