2022 Land Rover Defender vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2022 Land Rover Defender retained its distinctive design, echoing the original with its boxy profile, tailgate-mounted spare wheel, and flat hood. Despite these retro elements, it was a thoroughly modern vehicle with rounded corners for improved aerodynamics and recessed LED headlights that gave it a unique personality. The larger size compared to the original model provided more interior space and better ergonomics, offering a comfortable driving position with ample headroom and legroom. The interior design emphasized ruggedness with exposed metal and screws, complemented by a mix of leather and suede upholstery, making it suitable for off-road adventures without worrying about interior damage.

In contrast, the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover underwent an evolutionary redesign, maintaining its broad, rounded face and large sheet metal surfaces. The most notable change was at the rear, with thin LED strips replacing the old square taillights. The Range Rover emphasized its size, especially in the long-wheelbase version, which added 20 centimetres in length. Inside, the cabin was simplified with fewer buttons and a larger touchscreen, offering a modern look. Premium materials like leather and wood trim enhanced the luxurious feel, and the solid construction ensured a quiet and comfortable ride, rivaling even more expensive luxury SUVs.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender offered three powertrains, starting with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The mid-level option was a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six mild-hybrid powertrain with 395 hp and 406 lb-ft. The highlight was the new V8 engine, delivering 518 hp and 461 lb-ft, propelling the Defender 90 from zero to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds. All models featured a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The Defender excelled in off-road capabilities with features like a 4WD system with low range and impressive ground clearance, while also providing a comfortable on-road experience.

The 2022 Range Rover offered two powertrains: the base P400 with a 3.0-litre inline-six mild hybrid producing 395 hp and 406 lb-ft, and the P530 with a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The P400 accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in about 5.8 seconds, while the V8 provided even more power. The Range Rover was agile for its size, with rear-wheel steering aiding maneuverability. It maintained its off-road prowess with the Terrain Response system, offering a smooth and quiet ride on various terrains.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender featured 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats, providing surprising comfort in the two-door Defender 90, though accessing them was challenging. The four-door Defender 110 offered more versatility with two-row and three-row configurations, providing up to 1,875 litres of cargo space. The interior emphasized functionality with easy-to-reach controls and ample storage, including a large centre-console bin. Optional exterior cargo solutions like a roof rack and side-mounted boxes enhanced its practicality.

The 2022 Range Rover boasted spaciousness in the first two rows, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. Front seats offered massage functions, and ample storage options were available. The second row provided generous space with power adjustments and additional tech features. The optional third row was accessible via a button, though limited in headroom for adults. Cargo space varied from 484 litres behind the third row to 2,365 litres with seats folded. The split tailgate and adjustable air suspension facilitated loading and unloading.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender came with the Pivi Pro infotainment system, featuring a 10-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. An 11.4-inch screen was newly available, offering easy navigation through its user-friendly interface. A surround-view camera system was standard, with optional features like a 14-speaker Meridian audio system and head-up display enhancing the tech experience.

The 2022 Range Rover featured a 13-inch touchscreen with the new Pivi Pro system, offering sharper graphics and quicker responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, complemented by a wireless charging pad. The Meridian audio system provided excellent sound quality, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade available. Additional tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote parking, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender included standard driver-assist features like lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, traffic-sign recognition, and blind-spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was optional. Safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA were unavailable, which was common for luxury brands.

The 2022 Range Rover came with standard safety features such as frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and a surround-view camera system. These features performed well, though some rivals offered additional advanced safety technologies. Safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA were not available.