When it comes to luxury SUVs, few comparisons attract as much attention as the defender vs range rover debate. Both vehicles reflect the engineering brilliance of Land Rover but serve two very different personalities. The Defender is admired for its rugged durability and off-road mastery, while the Range Rover is celebrated as a global symbol of sophistication and luxury. This blog takes a structured look at how these two iconic models differ in dimensions, performance, comfort, safety, and pricing.
Defender vs Range Rover: Dimensions
| Specification | Land Rover Defender | Range Rover |
| Length | 5,018 mm | 5,052 mm |
| Width | 2,008 mm | 2,048 mm |
| Height | 1,967 mm | 1,870 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3,022 mm | 2,997 mm |
| Boot Space | 231–857 litres | 818 litres |
The Defender’s tall stance immediately highlights its adventurous character. Its slightly greater height offers additional headroom and practicality, making it ideal for outdoor gear and taller passengers. The Range Rover, however, stretches wider and longer, giving it a more commanding presence on the road. While the Range Rover’s lower roofline enhances aerodynamics, the Defender feels more utilitarian and upright, appealing to buyers with a taste for adventure.
Summary: The Defender emphasizes practicality and presence, while the Range Rover feels more refined and road-focused in its dimensions.
Defender vs Range Rover: Engine & Transmission
| Specification | Land Rover Defender | Range Rover |
| Engine Options | 2.0L Petrol, 3.0L Diesel, V8 | 3.0L Petrol/Diesel, V8 PHEV |
| Transmission | 8-speed Automatic | 8-speed Automatic |
| Power | 296–518 hp | 345–523 hp |
| Torque | 400–625 Nm | 480–700 Nm |
| Mileage | ~12 kmpl | ~10 kmpl |
The Defender offers a versatile engine lineup that blends efficiency with strength. With an average of 12 kmpl, the Defender mileage makes it a practical choice for long-distance journeys, while its torque-rich engines are well-suited for off-road climbs and unpredictable terrain. In contrast, the Range Rover focuses on delivering refined power and smooth acceleration. Producing up to 523 hp, it ensures effortless performance, though its fuel efficiency averages closer to 10 kmpl.
Summary: The Defender strikes a balance between efficiency and rugged capability, while the Range Rover mileage reflects its priority on luxury and powerful cruising. Buyers who value practicality and endurance may prefer the Defender, whereas those who seek refined performance and exclusivity will find the Range Rover more appealing.
Defender vs Range Rover: Features & Comfort
| Feature | Land Rover Defender | Range Rover |
| Infotainment System | 11.4-inch Touchscreen | 13.1-inch Touchscreen |
| Music System | Meridian Surround | Meridian 3D Surround |
| Climate Control | 2-zone | 4-zone |
| Ventilated Seats | Front only | Front & Rear |
| Adjustable Steering | Yes | Yes (Electric) |
| Drive Modes | Multiple Terrain Modes | Configurable Terrain |
| Instrument Cluster | Digital Display | Fully Digital |
| Sunroof | Panoramic | Panoramic (bigger) |
| Adjustable Seats | Electric Front | Electric (Front & Rear) |
| Rear AC Vents | Yes | Yes |
| 60:40 Rear Seat Split | Yes | Yes |
| Cruise Control | Yes | Adaptive Cruise Control |
Inside the Defender, the focus is on durability blended with modern luxury. Its infotainment system is intuitive, and its seating is supportive for both long journeys and off-road conditions. However, the Range Rover elevates this experience significantly, offering ventilated rear seats, a more advanced sound system, and a four-zone climate control that ensures unmatched passenger comfort. Buyers comparing defender vs range rover often find that the latter is built for indulgence, while the Defender leans more toward practicality.
Summary: The Range Rover offers a superior feature set, while the Defender delivers a simpler, purpose-driven cabin experience. The difference lies in intent—one caters to those seeking indulgence, while the other focuses on resilience and everyday usability.
Defender vs Range Rover: Safety Features
| Safety Feature | Land Rover Defender | Range Rover |
| GNCAP Safety Rating | 5-Star | 5-Star |
| Airbags | 6–8 | 8–10 |
| ABS with EBD | Yes | Yes |
| ESC | Yes | Yes |
| Traction Control | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | Yes | Yes |
| Rain-Sensing Wipers | Yes | Yes |
| Hill Hold Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Sensors | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Parking Camera | Yes | Yes |
| ISOFIX Child Anchors | Yes | Yes |
| ADAS | Limited | Advanced (L2) |
Safety is one area where both SUVs excel. The Defender’s 5-star GNCAP rating provides reassurance for families and adventurers alike, and it comes equipped with all the fundamental driver-assist systems. However, the Range Rover goes a step further with advanced ADAS features, such as adaptive lane assist and automated emergency braking. These refinements ensure that in the defender vs range rover safety debate, the latter takes a slight lead for urban luxury buyers.
Summary: Both models are safe, but the Range Rover’s driver-assist technology provides more advanced protection. Its emphasis on cutting-edge safety makes it especially appealing to those who prioritize comfort and city driving confidence.
Defender vs Range Rover: Price Comparison
| Variant Level | Land Rover Defender (₹) | Range Rover (₹) |
| Base Variant | 93 lakh+ | 2.39 crore+ |
| Mid Variant | 1.1 crore+ | 2.8 crore+ |
| Upper Mid Variant | 1.4 crore+ | 3.2 crore+ |
| Top Variant | 2.3 crore+ | 4.5 crore+ |
Pricing clearly separates these two SUVs into different categories. The land rover defender price starts under ₹1 crore, making it relatively accessible compared to its sibling. In contrast, the Range Rover begins at well over ₹2.3 crore, positioning it firmly within the ultra-luxury category. Those who prioritize versatility and value will lean toward the Defender, while those chasing prestige and exclusivity often find the Range Rover more compelling.
Summary: The Defender stands out for its value-for-money appeal, while the Range Rover price reflects its positioning as a true luxury flagship. It appeals to buyers who see exclusivity as an extension of status, offering unmatched refinement and presence on the road.
Summary
Through this defender vs range rover analysis, it becomes clear that both SUVs fulfill unique roles under the Land Rover umbrella. The Defender is a rugged, versatile option that appeals to those who want capability, practicality, and respectable efficiency. Its mileage and pricing make it a strong contender for adventurous families and explorers.
The Range Rover, however, is built for those who want the very best in refinement, technology, and prestige. From its advanced ADAS features to its plush interiors, it provides a level of comfort and sophistication that few SUVs can rival.
Ultimately, the choice boils down to lifestyle: choose the Defender if adventure and practicality matter most, and opt for the Range Rover if luxury and exclusivity are your top priorities.
FAQs: Defender vs Range Rover
Which SUV is better for off-roading?
The Defender is built with rugged suspension, superior ground clearance, and specialized off-road modes that make it highly capable on challenging terrains. It is better suited for adventurers who frequently tackle mountains, rivers, or rocky paths.
Which model has more luxury features?
The Range Rover stands out for its luxury-first approach, offering premium interiors, advanced technology, and endless customization options. From refined materials to comfort-focused amenities, it creates an unmatched luxury experience.
How much do they cost?
The Defender is relatively more affordable, making it accessible to those who want an adventure-ready SUV without overspending. The Range Rover, on the other hand, commands a significantly higher price, reflecting its luxury positioning and premium appeal.
Which is more fuel-efficient?
Between the two, the Defender offers better efficiency, making it more practical for long-distance touring and everyday driving. The Range Rover focuses on power and refinement, which naturally comes with higher fuel consumption.
Who should buy which SUV?
The Defender is ideal for buyers who want a versatile vehicle that blends practicality with adventure. The Range Rover is better suited to those who value prestige, luxury, and a smooth urban driving experience over rugged exploration.
