2021 Honda CR-V vs 2020 Land Rover Defender

The 2020 Land Rover Defender was a nostalgic nod to the classic Land Rover design, reminiscent of the beloved LR4. Its squared-off edges, rising roofline, and round headlights evoked a sense of familiarity and ruggedness. The Defender's design was both classic and purposeful, with features like step plates and a ladder that harkened back to its utilitarian roots. Despite some modern touches, such as plastic step plates and a three-piece ladder, the Defender maintained its adventurous spirit. The taillights, external spare tire, and various customization options, including mudflaps and snorkels, added to its rugged appeal. Inside, the Defender's interior was basic and industrial, with exposed screws and a focus on durability over luxury. While it lacked the opulence of some competitors, it offered a unique charm akin to a Jeep with superior materials.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V was a model of modern practicality, blending seamlessly into the crowded crossover market. Its styling was similar to other compact crossovers, with few distinguishing features. The CR-V offered a range of colours, though many were variations of grey, black, and white. Inside, the CR-V's interior was more angular and modern, with options for wood panels and chrome accents. While it didn't stand out in terms of design, it provided a comfortable and functional space for passengers. The CR-V's focus was on practicality and comfort, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a straightforward and efficient vehicle.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender justified its price with impressive performance capabilities. It featured a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. This mild hybrid system eliminated turbo lag and provided consistent power. The Defender's off-road prowess was enhanced by its Terrain Response 2 system and adjustable-height suspension, allowing it to tackle challenging terrains with ease. It excelled in off-road scenarios, with capabilities like climbing steep angles and wading through deep water. On-road, the Defender offered a smooth and quiet ride, though its handling was reminiscent of older SUVs, requiring careful steering and braking.

The 2021 Honda CR-V, on the other hand, prioritized smooth and steady performance. It was equipped with a 1.5-litre turbo four-cylinder engine, delivering 190 horsepower. While not designed for high-speed thrills, the CR-V offered reliable acceleration and predictable cornering. Its continuously variable transmission (CVT) provided a smooth driving experience, though it lacked the engagement of traditional transmissions. The CR-V's standard front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive made it versatile for various driving conditions. Its suspension setup ensured decent handling and ride quality, making it a practical choice for everyday driving.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender was designed for versatility and durability. Its interior was spacious, with options for a jump seat and third-row seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. The Defender's cargo space varied depending on the model, with the two-door 90 offering 297 litres and the four-door 110 providing up to 1,875 litres with seats folded. The Defender's rugged design extended to its towing capacity, capable of hauling up to 3,719 kilograms. Its exterior and interior were built to withstand tough conditions, making it a reliable choice for adventurous journeys.

The 2021 Honda CR-V focused on practicality and comfort. It offered ample interior space, with more than 100 litres of additional volume compared to the Toyota RAV4. The CR-V's cargo area was easily accessible, with options for a power tailgate and hands-free operation. With the rear seats folded, it provided 1,065 litres of cargo space, accommodating various needs. The CR-V's design prioritized passenger comfort, with features like roof rails for additional storage. Its form was dictated by function, ensuring a comfortable and efficient ride for families and individuals alike.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender featured the Pivi Pro infotainment system, a significant improvement over previous versions. It offered dual SIM cards for streaming data and over-the-air updates, enhancing functionality. The system's interface was user-friendly, though some elements, like map zoom icons, were small. The Defender's off-road capabilities were supported by advanced camera systems and displays showing vehicle metrics. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 12-inch digital instrument panel. Higher trims offered additional luxuries like a 14-speaker Meridian sound system and adaptive cruise control.

The 2021 Honda CR-V came equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Audio options varied by trim, with the Touring trim offering a 300-watt system with a subwoofer. The CR-V's technology package included multiple charging ports and a wireless phone charger in higher trims. While the base LX lacked some features, the CR-V's technology offerings were comprehensive and user-friendly, catering to modern connectivity needs.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender had not been rated by U.S. crash testing agencies, but it offered a range of safety features. These included forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and 360-degree cameras. However, it lacked knee airbags and rear side airbags, with a total of six airbags.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning a five-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. Its Honda Sensing system included features like forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. While the base LX lacked blind spot monitoring, the CR-V's comprehensive safety package was standard across most trims, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers.