It’s hard to mess with an iconic design for a capable four-wheel drive SUV that has been around since the late 1940’s. The iconic British 4x4 SUV was known for being tough and rugged, with go anywhere capability. And now, it’s back at the Frankfurt Motor Show in an all-new avatar – the 2020 Land Rover Defender. It will be launched in India as well in mid 2020.
Prices start at about GBP 40,000 (Rs 35 lakh approx in the UK) going up to GBP 80,000 for the fully-kitted out variants. Once it comes to India, expect prices to range between Rs 75 lakh and Rs 1.6 crore accounting for duties and taxes.
The Land Rover Defender is based on the DC 100 concept that was showcased a few years ago. While it still has the rugged image, it no longer has the simple mechanical harmony of yesteryear. Instead, it is now more of an “off-road computer” full of electronic wizardry. It has some 85 ECUs (electronic control units) on board managing the various subsystems. Not something you can fix with a hammer and a spanner in the wilderness. No, sir!
While the classic Defender was a favourite among off-road enthusiasts for its simple mechanical four-wheel drive system that was robust, the Land Rover Defender comes with the advanced Terrain Response 2 system with a host of electronic aids. Sure, it still has low-range and rock mode, but it also has adaptive air-suspension, full monocoque chassis and independent axles to make it much more friendly on the road too.
Of course, the interiors are kitted out in leather, with a new Pivi Pro infotainment system that can get over-the-air updates. The 90 series also has an optional middle seat between the front two seats. The 110 comes with an optional set of seats in the rear to make it a 5+2 seat vehicle.
Power train choices include two petrol engines – a four-cylinder and a six-cylinder. The latter features mild-hybrid tech. It also gets two four-cylinder diesel engines. India is likely to get only the bigger 110 Series Defender though.
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