2019 Honda CR-V vs 2020 Land Rover Defender

The 2019 Honda CR-V was a versatile and appealing choice for many consumers, offering four trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring. It featured a standard front-wheel drive with an optional all-wheel drive, while in Canada, all trims except the base model came with standard all-wheel drive. The CR-V's pricing started at $27,690, with additional destination charges, and could reach up to $39,090. The vehicle's design was generally well-received, with its rear styling considered upscale, although the front-end design was less popular. Inside, the CR-V boasted quality materials and a well-thought-out layout, providing a sense of value for money despite the presence of hard plastics.

In contrast, the 2020 Land Rover Defender was a nostalgic nod to the classic Land Rover design, with its squared-off edges, round headlights, and short overhangs. It was a vehicle that prioritized ruggedness and off-road capability, featuring design elements like step plates and a ladder for roof access. The Defender's interior was described as industrial, with a focus on durability over luxury. It offered a unique cabin layout with options for a jump seat and a third row, accommodating up to seven passengers. The Defender's design was both functional and adventurous, inspiring a sense of exploration.

The 2019 Honda CR-V in Canada was equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and offered both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options. The CR-V's performance was generally satisfying, with responsive acceleration and commendable fuel economy, although some issues were noted in cold weather conditions. The vehicle's driving dynamics were impressive, with a well-tuned suspension and excellent steering and braking performance, making it a reliable choice for everyday driving.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender, on the other hand, offered a more powerful performance with its optional 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, delivering 395 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. This mild hybrid engine provided smooth power delivery and impressive off-road capabilities, aided by features like Terrain Response 2 and adjustable-height suspension. The Defender's standard engine was a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four, producing 296 horsepower. While the Defender excelled in off-road scenarios, its on-road handling was reminiscent of older SUVs, with slower steering and more body lean. However, its off-road prowess and ability to tackle challenging terrains were unmatched.

The 2019 Honda CR-V offered a spacious and comfortable interior, with ample room for passengers and cargo. The driver enjoyed a 12-way power adjustable seat, while heated front seats were standard in Canada. The rear seats provided plenty of space for children and adults alike, with air vents and USB ports enhancing comfort. The CR-V's cargo capacity was impressive, with 1,110 litres of space behind the rear seats and 2,146 litres with the seats folded, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender was designed for versatility and durability, with a minimalist interior that prioritized functionality. The Defender 90 and 110 models offered various seating configurations, accommodating up to seven passengers. The cabin layout was straightforward, with generous headroom and legroom. Cargo space varied depending on the model, with the Defender 110 providing up to 1,875 litres with the seats folded. The Defender's towing capacity was notable, and its rugged design was built to withstand challenging conditions, making it a reliable choice for adventurous drivers.

The 2019 Honda CR-V featured a range of infotainment and driver-assistance technologies, including a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and HondaLink connected services. While the system offered useful features, it was criticized for its small screen size and lack of menu shortcut buttons. Voice activation was available but often required specific prompts, leading to potential distractions. Overall, the CR-V's infotainment system was functional but could benefit from improvements.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender introduced the Pivi Pro infotainment system, a significant upgrade from previous Jaguar Land Rover systems. It featured two SIM cards for streaming data and over-the-air software updates. The interface was more user-friendly, although some issues with small icons and overlays were noted. The Defender's off-road capabilities were enhanced by its technology, with cameras providing views of the terrain and a rearview mirror doubling as a screen. The Defender's infotainment system was comprehensive, offering features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 12-inch digital instrument panel.

The 2019 Honda CR-V was equipped with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The CR-V received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, although its headlight performance was rated as Acceptable. The CR-V's safety features were effective, though some refinement was needed.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender had not been rated by U.S. crash testing agencies, but it offered a range of safety features, including forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Defender's safety equipment was comprehensive, although it lacked knee and rear side airbags. Its driver assistance technologies provided additional security, making it a reliable choice for safety-conscious drivers.