The Land Rover Defender is a luxury SUV icon, but whispers in 2025 suggest India might slash its price below the Toyota Fortuner’s, making premium off-roading more accessible. With a potential import duty cut from 110% to 10%, the Defender’s ₹87.90 lakh starting price could drop significantly, challenging the Fortuner’s ₹33.43 lakh-₹51.44 lakh range. Both SUVs dominate their segments—Defender for prestige, Fortuner for reliability—but a price shake-up could rewrite the game. Curious about the Land Rover Defender price in India or if it’s the best luxury SUV for 2025? Let’s unpack the specs, mileage, features, and what this policy shift could mean—your full guide to this SUV showdown.
The Price Drop Buzz – What’s Happening?
Talk of reducing import duties on luxury vehicles like the Defender surfaced in April 2025, driven by discussions with the European Union. Currently, Completely Built Units (CBUs) face a 110% duty, inflating the Defender’s ₹87.90 lakh-₹2.65 crore price tag. A proposed 10% duty could lower the base Defender 90 to ₹50 lakh or less—closer to the Fortuner’s top-end ₹51.44 lakh. Local assembly of models like the Defender 110 (since 2024) already cut costs, with sales soaring 90% in FY25 to 6,183 units.
Why’s this a big deal? The Fortuner’s long ruled India’s premium SUV market with affordability and durability. A cheaper Defender could lure buyers seeking luxury without the hefty tag. Want to know what powers these beasts? Engine specs are next.[](https://motoroctane.com/news/286506-india-to-make-land-rover-defender-cheaper-than-fortuner)
Engine Performance – Muscle Meets Refinement
The Defender offers multiple powertrains:
2.0L Turbo Petrol: 296 bhp, 400 Nm, 8-speed auto—tops out at 191 km/h.
3.0L Diesel: 296 bhp, 650 Nm—smooth for long hauls, same 191 km/h.
5.0L V8 (Octa): 626 bhp, 750 Nm—0-100 km/h in 4 seconds, 240 km/h.
The Fortuner counters with:
2.7L Petrol: 164 bhp, 245 Nm, 6-speed auto—180 km/h max.
2.8L Diesel: 201 bhp, 500 Nm, 6-speed manual/auto—190 km/h, 4x4 option.
The Defender’s engines prioritize power and versatility, ideal for off-road or highway cruises. Fortuner’s diesel is torquey but less refined, built for rugged reliability. Planning epic drives in 2025? Defender’s got the edge—mileage is up next.
Mileage – Efficiency in the Real World
Luxury SUVs aren’t fuel-sippers, but the Defender holds up in car mileage comparison. The diesel Defender averages 12-14 kmpl, stretching its 90-liter tank to 1,000+ km. The petrol variant hits 8-10 kmpl—700-800 km range. The Fortuner’s diesel gets 10-12 kmpl (800-960 km on an 80-liter tank), while the petrol lags at 7-10 kmpl (560-800 km).
A duty cut won’t change fuel economy, but cheaper upfront costs could make Defender’s thirst more palatable. Fortuner’s diesel edge suits budget-conscious buyers, but 2025’s fuel prices favor efficiency—Defender’s diesel is competitive. What’s the look like? Design’s next.
Design – Prestige vs Practicality
The Defender’s boxy, rugged aesthetic—LED headlamps, 20-inch alloys, 291 mm ground clearance—screams adventure. At 2,008 kg (90) to 2,587 kg (130), it’s a beast, with colors like Fuji White and Gondwana Stone. The Fortuner’s sleeker—bold grille, 18-inch alloys, 279 mm clearance, 2,180 kg weight. Colors like Attitude Black and Sparkling Black Crystal keep it sharp.
Defender’s taller 1,974 mm frame and 5,018 mm length (130) dwarf Fortuner’s 1,855 mm height and 4,795 mm length, giving it unmatched road presence. Planning off-road trips or city flexing? Defender’s iconic—Fortuner’s modern but less distinct. Suspension’s up next.
Suspension – Conquering Any Terrain
The Defender’s coil springs or optional air suspension (6D Dynamic on Octa) adapt to potholes or trails, with a 2,916-3,022 mm wheelbase for stability. Fortuner’s double-wishbone front and 4-link rear coil suspension handle rough roads well, with a 2,750 mm wheelbase—comfy but less sophisticated.
Defender’s setup shines off-road, tackling mud or rocks with ease, while Fortuner’s tuned for durability over long hauls. Driving from Mumbai to Goa? Defender feels plush; Fortuner’s practical braking’s next.
Braking – Stopping Power Matters
Defender’s 349-363 mm front discs with dual-channel ABS stop its 2,587 kg mass confidently at 191 km/h. Fortuner’s 338 mm front and rear discs, also with ABS, manage 190 km/h stops—solid for 2,180 kg. Both grip well with 255/60 (Defender) and 265/60 (Fortuner) tires.
Defender’s off-road ABS modes add versatility; Fortuner keeps it simple but effective. Looking for the best luxury SUV 2025 with safety? Defender’s tech nudges ahead—price comparison’s next.
Price – Can Defender Beat Fortuner?
Without the duty cut, Defender starts at ₹87.90 lakh (90), ₹97.90 lakh (110), ₹1.40 crore (130), and ₹2.65 crore (Octa), ex-showroom. Fortuner ranges ₹33.43 lakh (petrol) to ₹51.44 lakh (diesel 4x4), ex-showroom. On-road, Defender’s ₹1 crore-₹3 crore dwarfs Fortuner’s ₹40 lakh-₹60 lakh.
A 10% duty could drop Defender 90 to ₹50 lakh-₹60 lakh, rivaling Fortuner’s top trims. Local assembly already slashed costs—FY25 saw 90% Defender sales growth. Fortuner’s cheaper now, but 2025’s policy shift could flip the script—features are next.[](https://motoroctane.com/news/286506-india-to-make-land-rover-defender-cheaper-than-fortuner)[](https://www.cnbctv18.com/auto/jlr-india-posts-record-fy25-sales-at-6183-units-up-40-led-by-defender-and-range-rover-19587519.htm)
Features – Luxury vs Utility
Defender’s 10-inch Pivi Pro touchscreen, 360° camera, 12.3-inch digital cluster, and Meridian audio scream premium. Terrain Response, air purification, and 8 airbags add safety. Fortuner offers an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, 6 airbags, and a rearview camera—functional but basic. Top trims add leather and a JBL system.
Defender’s tech feels futuristic; Fortuner prioritizes essentials. Want the best luxury SUV 2025 for gadgets? Defender’s loaded—rival comparison’s up.
Rivals – Defender vs Fortuner Head-to-Head
Power: Defender’s 296-626 bhp crushes Fortuner’s 164-201 bhp—luxury wins.
Mileage: Fortuner’s 10-12 kmpl edges Defender’s 8-14 kmpl budget-friendly.
Price (Current): Fortuner’s ₹33.43 lakh-₹51.44 lakh undercuts Defender’s ₹87.90 lakh+.
Price (Post-Duty Cut): Defender at ₹50 lakh could match Fortuner’s ₹51.44 lakh top-end.
Features: Defender’s ADAS, air suspension trump Fortuner’s simpler tech.
Best luxury SUV 2025? Defender’s prestige shines if price drops; Fortuner’s reliability holds strong now. Fortuner faces threats—a diesel ban looms, impacting its 2.8L mainstay. Defender’s petrol and diesel options dodge this risk. Buying guide’s next.
Buying Guide – How to Choose
Defender’s available at JLR dealers—book online or visit showrooms. EMI? ₹87.90 lakh at 9% over 5 years is ₹18,400/month with ₹17.58 lakh down. Fortuner’s ₹51.44 lakh is ₹10,800/month with ₹10.29 lakh down. Insurance? Defender: ₹1-2 lakh yearly; Fortuner: ₹80,000-1.2 lakh—shop online for deals.
Test drive both—Defender’s plush, Fortuner’s rugged. Duty cut’s not confirmed, so Fortuner’s cheaper today. Want 2025’s best luxury SUV? Wait for policy news or grab Fortuner’s value now—maintenance is next.
Maintenance – Running Costs Compared
Defender’s service runs ₹20,000-30,000 yearly—premium parts, but JLR’s network is growing. Fuel? ₹8,000-10,000/tank (90 liters). Fortuner’s maintenance is ₹10,000-15,000 yearly—parts are cheaper, fuel’s ₹6,000-8,000/tank (80 liters). Car mileage comparison? Fortuner’s thriftier.
Defender’s local assembly lowers costs; Fortuner’s dealer reach is unmatched. Duty cuts could ease Defender’s upkeep further—insurance’s next.
Insurance – Covering Your Ride
Defender’s insurance is ₹1-2 lakh yearly—reflects its price. Fortuner’s ₹80,000-1.2 lakh is lighter—varies by city. Third-party saves cash; full coverage is safer—online quotes cut costs.
Both are investments—insure smart to ride easy. Why choose one? Wrap-up’s next.
Why It’s a 2025 Game-Changer
A potential duty cut could bring the Land Rover Defender’s ₹87.90 lakh down to ₹50 lakh, rivaling the Toyota Fortuner’s ₹51.44 lakh top-end. With 296-626 bhp, 12-14 kmpl, and luxury tech, Defender’s the best luxury SUV 2025 contender if prices drop. Fortuner’s 201 bhp, 10-12 kmpl, and reliability hold firm now. India’s policy shift could redefine premium SUVs—your 2025 ride depends on it.
FAQs About Land Rover Defender vs Toyota Fortuner 2025
What’s the current price in India?
Defender: ₹87.90 lakh-₹2.65 crore; Fortuner: ₹33.43 lakh-₹51.44 lakh, ex-showroom.
Could Defender really get cheaper than Fortuner?
A 10% duty cut could drop Defender to ₹50 lakh, matching Fortuner’s ₹51.44 lakh top trim.
How’s the mileage?
Defender: 8-14 kmpl; Fortuner: 7-12 kmpl—Fortuner’s slightly thriftier.
What are the key features?
Defender: Pivi Pro, air suspension, ADAS. Fortuner: touchscreen, JBL audio, 6 airbags.
Which is better for off-roading?
Defender’s Terrain Response and 291 mm clearance beat Fortuner’s 279 mm and 4x4.
What’s the insurance cost?
Defender: ₹1-2 lakh yearly; Fortuner: ₹80,000-1.2 lakh—shop online for deals.
