Varanasi’s New ‘Power’ Ride: Land Rover Defender Takes Over the Streets

The visual landscape of Varanasi’s bustling roads is undergoing a high-octane transformation. Long dominated by the rugged white Toyota Fortuner—a staple for the city’s elite and political circles—the crown is now being challenged by a new symbol of authority: the Land Rover Defender.

Once a rare sight, the Defender has rapidly become the "hot new car" in the holy city. Current estimates suggest that more than 20 Defenders are now navigating the narrow lanes and wide highways of Varanasi, signaling a major shift in the city’s luxury car culture.

The New Face of Influence For decades, the Toyota Fortuner was the undisputed "neta-mobile" of Uttar Pradesh. However, the Defender’s arrival has introduced a new tier of prestige. Combining legendary off-road capability with a sleek, premium interior, this British-origin SUV has become the top choice for:

Sitting politicians looking to upgrade their motorcade.

Aspiring young leaders aiming to make a statement.

The city’s top business icons and influencers.

Local car enthusiasts and residents have noted that the vehicle's massive road presence fits the "Baahubali" image often associated with power in the region. "The Defender is more than just a car—it’s a way to show off," says a local luxury car fan. "When a Defender passes by, people stop to look. It has that 'command' factor that the Fortuner used to have exclusively."

Fortuner vs. Defender: A Clash of Tastes While the Toyota Fortuner remains a favorite for its reliability and "bulletproof" reputation in rural areas, the Defender caters to a changing taste among the city’s big shots who now demand global luxury alongside toughness.

With a price tag significantly higher than its Japanese rival—starting at over ₹1 crore—the Defender is as much a financial statement as it is a practical choice.

Will the Trend Last? As the 2026 political season approaches, the influx of these high-end SUVs suggests that the trend is only just beginning. Whether the Defender will completely unseat the Fortuner remains to be seen, but for now, the streets of Kashi have a new king of the road.