Land Rover has made significant changes to its iconic Defender lineup in India. The once expansive range has been streamlined to focus on core models and engine options. This update marks the departure of the powerful V8 and fuel-efficient PHEV variants, leaving petrol and diesel powertrains as the only options.
Defender Lineup Breakdown
The Defender continues to be offered in three classic body styles: the compact 90, the versatile 110, and the spacious 130. However, the choice of variants and engines has been reduced.
- Defender 90: Exclusively available in the top-tier X-Dynamic HSE trim, powered by the 3.0-litre diesel engine.
- Defender 110: Offers more options with X-Dynamic HSE, X, and the limited-edition Sedona Edition. Both the 2.0-litre petrol and 3.0-litre diesel engines are available for this model.
- Defender 130: Available in X-Dynamic HSE and X trims, both equipped with the 3.0-litre diesel engine.
A Strategic Move or a Missed Opportunity?
While the streamlined lineup might simplify the buying process for some, the absence of the V8 and PHEV options is undoubtedly a disappointment for enthusiasts. These variants offered unique character and performance, catering to specific customer preferences.
Local assembly of the Defender has been a topic of discussion for some time. By manufacturing the SUV in India, Land Rover could potentially reduce costs, making it more accessible to a wider audience and sparking intense competition in the luxury SUV segment.
It remains to be seen how this revised lineup will impact Defender sales in India. With the growing popularity of electric vehicles and the increasing emphasis on sustainability, the absence of a PHEV option might be a missed opportunity for Land Rover to tap into a burgeoning market segment.
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