2023 Land Rover Defender vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered Canadians a range of six models, with prices starting from $47,799 to $66,759, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The lineup expanded with the rugged Timberline trim and introduced the sporty ST-Line, enhancing the popular XLT version. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, featured a long and tall hood, short front overhang, and a tapering greenhouse, creating a taut, athletic appearance. Blacked-out roof pillars contributed to the "floating roof" effect. Inside, higher-trim Explorers displayed a mix of quality and questionable materials, mostly justifying their price but occasionally revealing the base trim's influence.

In contrast, the 2023 Land Rover Defender was a standout in Canada, outselling the Discovery by a significant margin. Its design was a nod to the classic truck aesthetic, with a square-jawed face, rectangular hood and doors, and a chopped tail. The Defender's design included tasteful accents reminiscent of the original 1980s model, such as dome and faux-metal step plates on the hood. It offered three body styles: 90, 110, and 130, each with unique seating configurations. The interior focused on function and durability, with rubbers and plastics dominating, despite the high price tag. The Defender's build quality was excellent, but it lacked the opulence of a Range Rover.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided three powertrain options. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims featured a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, delivering 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada. It offered a towing capacity of up to 2,400 kilograms and fuel consumption between 10.3 and 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres. The hybrid drivetrain, available on the Limited trim, combined a 3.3-litre V6 engine for 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kg and fuel efficiency as low as 9.6 L/100 km. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, standard on the ST and Platinum trims, produced 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,540 kg and fuel consumption of 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, and offered an engaging driving experience.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender excelled off-road, with impressive grip, wheel articulation, and clearance. Its air suspension allowed it to tackle challenging paths, though most owners would not fully utilize its capabilities. On-road, the Defender's performance was less refined, with noticeable body roll, slow steering, and wind noise. The turbocharged inline-six and supercharged V8 engines provided strong performance, with the V8 delivering 518 horsepower and 461 pound-feet of torque. The six-cylinder engine, part of a mild hybrid powertrain, offered 395 hp and 406 lb-ft, with better fuel efficiency than the V8. The Defender's fuel economy varied, with the V8 being the least efficient. Despite its on-road shortcomings, the Defender's power and off-road prowess were undeniable.

The 2022 Ford Explorer catered to families, offering comfort for four and occasional seating for five with a second-row bench seat. The third-row seat was best suited for children due to the rear-drive platform's design. Higher trims featured amenities like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain’s chairs. However, the third-row seat was difficult for adults to access. Storage space was limited, with missed opportunities for additional compartments. The Explorer provided 528 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,264 litres with the third row folded, and 2,132 litres with both rear rows down.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender offered unmatched seating configurations, with the Defender 90 seating six with a jump seat, and the 130 accommodating up to eight passengers. The interior featured large glass areas for visibility, and the 130 included a panoramic moonroof. Cargo space varied by model, with the 130 offering 2,180 litres with the third row and second row folded. The Defender's versatility extended to off-road and all-season tires, a metal roof rack, and various available features like a console refrigerator and power-deployable side steps.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The smaller screen was well integrated, while the larger screen appeared as an afterthought. The system included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. Higher trims offered wireless smartphone charging, a surround-view camera, and a Bang and Olufsen sound system. The outdated Sync 3 system struggled with voice recognition, highlighting the need for an upgrade to Sync 4.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender's Pivi Pro infotainment system was reliable, with a standard 10-inch or optional 11.4-inch touchscreen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a voice assistant, and connected apps. The Defender offered heated front seats, keyless entry, and heated power-folding mirrors. Higher trims featured additional amenities like a Meridian sound system, air suspension, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems operated smoothly, though the steering wheel sensitivity could be improved.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender received a five-star rating from Euro NCAP, praised for its solid structure. It included six airbags, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Optional features included a digital instrument panel, head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system.