The Land Rover Defender has always been known for its bold design and strong road presence. Now, the Defender 130 8 Seater has taken things a step further. It is bigger, more spacious, and designed for large families who want both luxury and performance in one SUV. In India, where premium SUVs are becoming more popular, the Defender 130 is creating serious buzz.
In this article, we will explain everything about the Land Rover Defender 130 8 Seater – its features, engine options, price in India, interior space, safety, competition, and whether it truly deserves to be called the “King of Luxury SUVs.”
What Is the Land Rover Defender 130?
The Defender 130 is the longest version in the Defender lineup. Land Rover already offers the Defender 90 (3-door) and Defender 110 (5-door). The Defender 130 is even longer and focuses mainly on space and comfort.
The biggest highlight is its 8-seater layout. It comes with three rows of seats in a 2+3+3 configuration. This makes it suitable for large Indian families who need space but do not want to compromise on premium features.
Unlike many 7-seater SUVs in India, the Defender 130 offers proper third-row space. Adults can sit comfortably in the last row, which is not common in most SUVs.
Land Rover Defender 130 Launch and Availability in India
The Defender 130 was launched in India after its global debut. Land Rover introduced it as a premium full-size luxury SUV option for Indian buyers who want more space than the Defender 110.
It is available through authorized Land Rover dealerships across major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai. Deliveries began soon after launch, and it is positioned in the high-end luxury SUV segment.
Because it is a Completely Built Unit (CBU), the price is on the higher side compared to locally assembled SUVs.
Engine Options and Performance
The Defender 130 in India comes with powerful engine options. These engines are designed to offer smooth performance both on highways and rough terrain.
Petrol Engine
The petrol version usually features a 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbocharged engine with mild-hybrid technology. It delivers strong power and smooth acceleration. The automatic transmission ensures seamless gear shifts, making city and highway driving comfortable.
Diesel Engine
The diesel option also comes with a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine. It offers excellent torque, which is very useful for long drives and off-road conditions. Diesel engines are popular in India due to better fuel efficiency for long-distance travel.
Both engine options are paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and Land Rover’s all-wheel-drive system.
Exterior Design: Bold and Dominating
The Defender 130 looks massive on the road. Its long body gives it a strong and powerful stance. It keeps the classic Defender boxy design but adds a modern touch with LED headlamps and stylish alloy wheels.
Key exterior highlights include:
- Signature round LED headlights
- Large front grille
- Strong shoulder lines
- Extended rear section for third-row seating
- High ground clearance
The longer rear overhang clearly differentiates it from the Defender 110. Even though it is bigger, it still looks balanced and premium.
In India, where road presence matters a lot, the Defender 130 definitely stands out.
Interior and Cabin Comfort
Step inside the Defender 130, and you will immediately notice the luxury feel. The cabin is designed with high-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and modern technology.
Seating Layout
The 2+3+3 seating layout makes it one of the rare true 8-seater luxury SUVs in India. The third row offers proper legroom and headroom. It is not just for kids; adults can also sit comfortably.
The seats are well-cushioned and designed for long journeys. Rear passengers also get USB charging ports and climate control vents.
Space and Practicality
Because of its longer body, the Defender 130 offers more boot space even with all seats up. This makes it practical for family trips and airport runs with luggage.
If you fold the third row, the cargo space increases significantly.
Technology and Features
The Defender 130 comes loaded with advanced technology. It blends ruggedness with modern digital features.
Some important features include:
- Large touchscreen infotainment system
- Digital instrument cluster
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Premium sound system
- Wireless charging
- Multiple USB ports
- 360-degree camera
The infotainment system is smooth and easy to use. It supports navigation and connected car features.
Land Rover has focused on comfort as well as convenience.
Safety Features
Safety is a major strength of the Defender 130. It comes with advanced safety systems that make it suitable for Indian roads.
Key safety features include:
- Multiple airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic Stability Control
- Traction Control
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
- Blind Spot Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control
The strong body structure adds another layer of safety. Land Rover vehicles are known for their solid build quality.
Off-Road Capability
The Defender name is strongly connected with off-roading. The Defender 130 continues that legacy.
It comes with:
- Terrain Response System
- All-wheel drive
- High ground clearance
- Water wading capability
- Hill descent control
Even though it is a large 8-seater SUV, it can handle rough roads, mud, sand, and rocky surfaces.
For Indian buyers who travel to hill stations or remote areas, this is a big advantage.
Price in India
The Land Rover Defender 130 is positioned in the premium segment. The ex-showroom price in India typically starts above ₹1 crore and goes higher depending on the variant and customization.
Because it is imported, the pricing is premium. However, buyers in this segment are usually looking for brand value, comfort, and exclusivity.
It competes with other high-end SUVs like:
- BMW X7
- Mercedes-Benz GLS
- Audi Q7
- Toyota Land Cruiser
Why It Matters in the Indian Market
The Indian SUV market is growing fast. Buyers now want bigger, more luxurious vehicles. The Defender 130 fits perfectly in this trend.
It offers:
- Space for large families
- Luxury features
- Strong brand image
- Off-road capability
Many premium SUV buyers in India are upgrading from 5-seaters to 7 or 8-seaters. The Defender 130 gives them both size and style.
Who Should Buy the Defender 130?
This SUV is ideal for:
- Large families who travel often
- Business owners looking for a luxury statement vehicle
- Buyers who want both off-road and city comfort
- Customers upgrading from Toyota Fortuner or similar SUVs
It may not be ideal for those looking for fuel efficiency or compact city driving.
What Happens Next?
Land Rover may introduce more variants or special editions in India based on demand. The luxury SUV segment is highly competitive, so updates in features and technology can be expected in the future.
Read More : Toyota Raize 2026 India Launch Update
Electric or hybrid expansion in the Defender lineup could also happen as India moves toward greener mobility.
Is It Really the “King of Luxury SUV”?
Calling it the “King” depends on personal preference. In terms of:
- Road presence – Yes
- Space – Definitely
- Off-road capability – Strong
- Luxury – High level
However, competition from German brands is also strong. Still, the Defender 130 offers a unique mix of rugged design and premium comfort that very few SUVs can match.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Land Rover Defender 130 available in India?
Yes, it is available in India through authorized Land Rover dealerships.
2. How many people can sit in the Defender 130?
It offers an 8-seater configuration with three rows of seating.
3. What is the price of the Defender 130 in India?
The price generally starts above ₹1 crore (ex-showroom) and varies by variant.
4. Does the Defender 130 have a diesel engine?
Yes, it is available with a 3.0-litre diesel engine option in India.
5. Is the Defender 130 good for off-roading?
Yes, it comes with advanced off-road features like Terrain Response and all-wheel drive.
