The Land Rover Defender could soon become considerably more affordable in India as JLR plans to introduce locally assembled versions of the luxury off-roader. The Completely Knocked Down (CKD) models are likely to start at around Rs. 89 lakh – substantially below the current imported lineup which starts at Rs. 1.07 crore (both, ex-showroom prices).
A new 3.0-litre petrol engine could become one of the significant additions to the locally assembled range. The internationally available P400 version kicks out 400 PS and 550 Nm through a six-cylinder turbocharged petrol unit equipped with 48V mild-hybrid technology. The engine will provide another choice between the 2.0-litre petrol and V8 derivatives.
The 2.0-litre petrol will occupy the entry point of the CKD range. The Defender currently gets a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine dishing out 300 PS and 400 Nm in its P300 specification. The 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel makes up to 350 PS and 700 Nm in the D350 configuration. The 5.0-litre supercharged V8 petrol sits at the very top of the lineup.
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These engines are connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system. The SUV features Land Rover’s aluminium-intensive D7x monocoque architecture, independent suspension and its off-road package includes a two-speed transfer case, Terrain Response technology and electronic air suspension on selected derivatives.
Certain configurations also receive an electronically controlled rear differential and the Defender offers a maximum wading depth of up to 900 mm. The Defender Octa could also enter local assembly despite its flagship positioning. The specialised off-roader features a 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine developing 635 PS and 750 Nm of torque.
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The SUV features more advanced suspension and revised chassis along with a dedicated Octa driving mode. The model’s inclusion in the CKD programme remains uncertain at the moment. The Octa could also qualify for tariff benefits under the India-UK Free Trade Agreement if the applicable provisions cover its eventual import arrangement at a later stage.
The CKD operation could reduce the customs duty burden associated with fully imported Defender models. The difference between the two import categories could provide JLR with scope to lower prices across variants. Considering the high popularity of the Defender in India, the price drop could prove to be attractive for many consumers in the luxury space.
