2022 Land Rover Defender vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2022 Land Rover Defender retained its distinctive exterior styling, reminiscent of the original version with its boxy profile, tailgate-mounted spare wheel, and flat hood. Despite these nostalgic elements, the design was thoroughly modern, featuring rounded corners for improved aerodynamics and recessed LED headlights that gave it a unique personality. The modern Defender was significantly larger than its predecessor, offering more interior space and better ergonomics. The interior design emphasized the Defender’s rugged character, with a mix of bare metal, exposed screws, and high-quality materials like leather and suede, making it both stylish and practical for off-road adventures.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus GX boasted a commanding presence with its large spindle grille and substantial ground clearance. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned with limited availability and exclusive paint options. Despite its luxury badge, the GX’s design leaned towards functionality, with short overhangs and a sleek aesthetic that made it suitable for off-road challenges. The interior, however, was criticized for its excessive use of plastic, which detracted from its luxury appeal. While it offered some high-end features like heated and cooled seats, the overall design felt dated, reflecting the GX’s long production run without a major update.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender offered a range of powertrains, including a base 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 296 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, and a mid-level 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six mild-hybrid powertrain producing 395 hp and 406 lb-ft. The highlight was the new-for-2022 V8 engine, delivering 518 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque, propelling the Defender 90 from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds. All models featured a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case. The Defender excelled in both on-road comfort and off-road capability, with features like an electronic active rear differential and Terrain Response 2 system enhancing its performance.

The 2023 Lexus GX was powered by a naturally aspirated 4.6-litre V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. While it didn’t match the power of more modern engines, the GX’s V8 offered a satisfying linear power delivery. However, its towing capacity of 2,948 kg was less impressive compared to competitors. The GX’s weight affected its handling, but its predictable roll and strong brakes provided a manageable driving experience. The Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential and standard four-wheel drive system enhanced its off-road capabilities, making it suitable for various terrains.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender offered versatile interior configurations, with the two-door Defender 90 featuring 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats that, while challenging to access, provided decent comfort. The four-door Defender 110 offered more space, with two-row and three-row configurations providing ample cargo capacity. The interior design emphasized functionality, with well-placed controls and generous storage options, including a large centre-console bin that could be equipped with refrigeration. Optional exterior features like a basket-style roof rack and cargo boxes added to its practicality.

The 2023 Lexus GX provided ample cubby space for small items, with a deep centre console bin and conveniently placed cupholders. The decision to retain hard buttons for controls was appreciated, though the abundance of buttons required some familiarization. The second row offered good comfort, but the third row was too tight for regular use. The side-hinged trunk door posed challenges, and the cargo space was limited, with only 328 litres behind the rear seats. Folding the seats increased capacity, but it still fell short compared to other SUVs.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender featured the Pivi Pro infotainment system with a 10-inch central touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster was standard on most trims, with an optional 11.4-inch touchscreen available. The system’s graphics and menu layouts were well-designed, 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 enhancing the tech offerings.

The 2023 Lexus GX’s infotainment system, updated for 2022, already felt dated by 2023. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, offering features like SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and smartphone integration. However, the graphics and responsiveness lagged behind competitors. The inclusion of a CD player highlighted the outdated tech. The GX excelled in off-road technology, with a real 4WD system, Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, and various driving aids enhancing its capability on challenging terrains.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender came with standard driver-assist features like lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, traffic-sign recognition, and blind-spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was optional. However, safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available, which was common for luxury vehicles.

The 2023 Lexus GX, despite its older design, included advanced driver assistance systems through the Lexus Safety System+. It featured automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic high beams. While crash test ratings were unavailable, the GX’s safety features were commendable.