2022 Land Rover Defender vs 2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was crafted as a distinct electric vehicle, diverging from the traditional styling of Volkswagen's gasoline models. It showcased a streamlined profile with wheels pushed to the corners, moving away from the rugged appearance of models like the Tiguan and Atlas. The ID.4 was part of Volkswagen's EV-specific MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback. While it was designed to appeal to North American crossover buyers, its SUV-like styling was subtle, similar to other EV crossovers like the Chevy Bolt EUV and Hyundai Kona Electric. Inside, the ID.4 combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a tech-focused aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic elements. The base model included a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, with leatherette upholstery available in higher trims.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender retained its iconic boxy profile, tailgate-mounted spare wheel, and flat hood, reminiscent of the original Defender and classic Series Land Rovers. Despite these retro elements, the design was modern, with rounded corners for improved aerodynamics and recessed LED headlights. The Defender was larger than its predecessor, offering more interior space and comfort. The interior design emphasized ruggedness without being overdone, featuring bare metal and exposed screws alongside leather and suede upholstery. The Defender 90 V8 model combined luxury with practicality, making it suitable for off-road adventures without compromising on-road comfort.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two powertrain configurations. The base rear-wheel drive (RWD) version featured a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) version added a second motor for a total output of 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The ID.4 prioritized comfort over sportiness, with a smooth ride and balanced handling. Unlike many EVs, it relied on friction brakes rather than aggressive regenerative braking, aiming to provide a familiar experience for drivers transitioning from gasoline cars.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender offered three powertrains, including a new V8 engine. The base model had a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 296 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, while the mid-level option was a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six mild-hybrid powertrain rated at 395 hp and 406 lb-ft. The V8 engine produced 518 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque, propelling the Defender 90 from zero to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds. The Defender's suspension provided a comfortable ride on pavement, and its off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like a 4WD system with low range and the optional Terrain Response 2 system.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more front and rear headroom than competitor EVs, though legroom was average. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded. The ID.4 lacked a "frunk" but compensated with a spacious cabin. Forward visibility was good, but rearward visibility was hindered by thick rear pillars. The interior featured a unique twist-grip gear selector and efficient heating elements like a heated steering wheel and front seats.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender featured 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats, with the Defender 90 model offering limited cargo space. The four-door Defender 110 model provided more versatility, with up to 1,875 litres of cargo space. The interior emphasized functionality, with a large storage bin and optional refrigeration. Land Rover offered optional exterior cargo solutions like a roof rack and side-mounted cargo boxes, enhancing the Defender's practicality.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 12-inch screen available. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the haptic touchpads were challenging to use. The ID.4 featured a natural-language voice-control system and the ID.Light, a light strip that communicated information to the driver. The touchscreen was well-positioned, with intuitive graphics and menu navigation.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender featured the Pivi Pro infotainment system with a 10-inch central touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster was standard on most trims, with an optional 11.4-inch touchscreen. The interface was user-friendly, though the screen required a firm touch. A surround-view camera system was standard, with optional features like a 14-speaker Meridian audio system and head-up display.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA for RWD versions. It offered a range of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The ID.4 introduced Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, enhancing highway driving and safety.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender included standard driver-assist features like lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was optional. The Defender had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, which was common for luxury vehicles.