Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has released the 2025 model-year Defender in India with significant upgrades. Above-base trims (such as X-Dynamic HSE and X) now get much more in terms of power, features, comfort, and capability. The V8 engine, once reserved for the topmost variants, is now offered in these higher-spec trims, expanding the appeal of premium performance.
Here’s a breakdown of what you gain above the base model.
Powertrain & Performance
* V8 P425 engine: A 5.0-litre V8 is now available in more trims (X-Dynamic HSE and X) across all three body styles — Defender 90, 110 and 130.
* Power / Torque: The V8 delivers about 419 bhp and 550 Nm of torque (or around the 610 Nm figure in some sources) depending on tuning.
* Other engine options maintained: Lower than the V8, you still have the 2.0-litre petrol and 3.0-litre diesel engines in the lineup for those who want less power or better efficiency.
Capability & Chassis Features
Stepping up means more serious off-road and refinement features:
* Electronic Air Suspension: Standard in V8 trims, helps with ride comfort and flexibility over difficult terrain.
* Terrain Response / Configurable Terrain Response: These systems let you adjust vehicle settings for different surfaces, improving traction, stability, and adaptability.
* All-Terrain Tyres / 20-inch Wheels: Premium variants come with 20-inch Satin Dark Grey all-terrain wheels and tyres. These add to aesthetics, grip, and capability.
Interior & Comfort Upgrades
Above-base trims bring a big leap in luxury and convenience features:
* Front seats: 14-way power adjustable, heated, cooled with memory function. Windsor leather upholstery is used.
* Second-Row Upgrades: The Defender 130 offers a Captain Chairs Pack in certain trims (individual 2nd-row seats) to enable better access to the third row, more comfort.
* Infotainment & Displays: Large 11.4-inch Pivi Pro touchscreen infotainment, a fully digital driver display.
* Ambience & Features: Panoramic sunroof, configurable ambient lighting, upgraded materials (e.g. finer leather, upgraded trims, nicer carpeting), more cabin refinement.
Safety, Convenience & Packs
Above base, there are bundles and optional packs that add functionality and usability:
* 360-degree camera view, soft-close tailgate, advanced driver assistance features.
* Optional Packs:
* Cold Climate Pack
* Advanced Off-Road Pack (adds features like wade sensing, adaptive dynamics etc.)
* Dynamic Handling Pack
* Family Comfort Pack etc.
Pricing & Trim Availability
* The V8-powered, above-base Defender trims start from around Rs.1.39 crore (ex-showroom) in India for the premium versions.
* These premium trims offer more luxury, power, and capability but also come with a tangible premium over base versions. Buying one of these means spending significantly more, but you get much more.
Who Should Consider the Above-Base Defender
Choosing an above-base Defender makes sense if you:
* Want more engine power, especially the V8, for both performance and the “feel” of a high-end SUV.
* Plan to do off-road driving, overlanding or require features like all-terrain tyres, advanced suspension, and terrain response.
* Seek luxury and comfort: better seats, nicer materials, larger screens, more ambience.
* Prioritize presence, style, and exclusivity — premium trim Defenders stand out more than base ones.
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