2023 Land Rover Defender vs 2022 Buick Enclave

The 2022 Buick Enclave was a testament to Buick's evolution from its traditionally conservative styling to a more modern and upscale design. Historically, Buick's designs were characterized by softer lines and functional interiors, catering to an older demographic that valued comfort over cutting-edge aesthetics. However, the Enclave marked a significant shift, reflecting Buick's strategic pivot towards SUVs, aligning with market trends. The 2022 model, particularly in the Avenir trim, showcased a refined exterior with a new grille, updated fascias, and distinctive wheel designs. Inside, the Enclave offered a luxurious experience with upgraded materials, a restyled centre console, and advanced comfort features like climate-controlled seats, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a premium yet practical SUV.

In contrast, the 2023 Land Rover Defender embraced a rugged, industrial design that paid homage to its iconic predecessors. Its boxy silhouette, square-jawed face, and steeply angled fittings exuded a classic truck appeal, resonating with those who appreciated a robust and adventurous aesthetic. The Defender's design was not just about looks; it was functional, with features like a full-size spare wheel on the hatch and accessory packages that enhanced its off-road capabilities. Inside, the Defender maintained a utilitarian vibe, with durable materials and a focus on functionality over opulence. Despite its high price tag, the Defender's unique character and build quality made it a standout choice for those who valued authenticity and off-road prowess.

The 2022 Buick Enclave was powered by a 3.6-litre V6 engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This setup provided a smooth and responsive driving experience, with the Enclave's AWD system ensuring stability across various terrains. The SUV's towing capacity was impressive at 2,268 kilograms, making it versatile for family adventures. The Enclave's ride quality was enhanced by the Avenir Technology package, which included a premium ride suspension and real-time chassis damping, offering a serene and comfortable journey. Buick's QuietTuning technology further elevated the cabin's tranquillity, rivaling more expensive luxury vehicles.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender, renowned for its off-road capabilities, offered a range of powerful engines. The V8 variant boasted 518 horsepower and 461 pound-feet of torque, providing exhilarating performance akin to a sports car. The inline-six engine, part of a mild hybrid system, delivered 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, balancing power and efficiency. The Defender's off-road prowess was unmatched, with features like the Terrain Response 2 system and air suspension enabling it to tackle challenging terrains effortlessly. However, its on-road performance was less refined, with noticeable body roll and wind noise. Despite these drawbacks, the Defender's engine options and off-road capabilities made it a formidable choice for adventure enthusiasts.

The 2022 Buick Enclave excelled in providing a spacious and comfortable interior, accommodating up to seven passengers with ease. Its large windows and windshield ensured excellent visibility, while power-adjustable seats and tri-zone climate control enhanced comfort. The Enclave's cargo space was generous, offering 668 litres behind the third row and expanding to 2,758 litres with all seats folded. The intuitive centre console design, despite potential concerns about spills, facilitated easy access to USB ports and wireless charging.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender offered unparalleled seating flexibility, with configurations accommodating up to eight passengers. The Defender 90's unique jump seat allowed for three front passengers, while the 130 model provided ample third-row space. The Defender's cargo capacity varied across models, with the 130 offering 2,180 litres with seats folded. Its large glass areas and optional panoramic roofs enhanced visibility and cabin ambiance. The Defender's practical features, like a metal roof rack and console refrigerator, catered to adventurous lifestyles, making it a versatile choice for families and explorers alike.

The 2022 Buick Enclave featured a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Premium and Avenir trims added navigation and a superior Bose audio system. The Enclave's connectivity options were robust, with a Wi-Fi hotspot and multiple USB ports. Advanced safety features, like adaptive cruise control and a head-up display, were available, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender's Pivi Pro infotainment system, available in 10-inch and 11.4-inch screens, offered seamless operation and integration. Standard features included wireless smartphone connectivity, a voice assistant, and heated front seats. Higher trims added luxury elements like a Meridian sound system and cooled seats. The Defender's technology suite, including a head-up display and 360-degree camera, complemented its rugged capabilities, providing a comprehensive and modern driving experience.

The 2022 Buick Enclave prioritized safety with the standard Buick Driver Confidence Plus package, offering features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. The Enclave received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and high marks from the IIHS, underscoring its commitment to occupant protection.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender, while unrated by North American agencies, earned a five-star rating in Euro NCAP tests. Standard safety features included lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring. The Defender's advanced systems, like a 360-degree camera and trailer assist, enhanced its safety profile, though the limited airbag count was a noted shortcoming.