2023 Land Rover Defender vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, a continuation of its second generation, showcased a mature design that had remained largely unchanged since 2008. Its exterior maintained a classic appeal with a modestly sized grille, elegant wheel arches, and straight lines, giving it a substantial presence. Despite its age, the Sequoia's interior was crafted with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. However, its design felt dated compared to modern SUVs, with a smaller 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen that seemed out of place in an era of larger digital displays.

In contrast, the 2023 Land Rover Defender embraced a boxy, rugged design reminiscent of the classic LR4, appealing to those who appreciated a traditional Land Rover aesthetic. Its design was characterized by square-jawed features and steep angles, with tasteful nods to the original 1980s Defender. The Defender offered a variety of body styles and accessory packages, allowing for customization and versatility. Inside, the Defender prioritized function and durability, with a mix of rubbers and plastics, exposed screws, and a metal dash, maintaining its hardcore character while offering excellent build quality.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, providing a reliable and durable powertrain. The Sequoia boasted a payload capacity of up to 608 kilograms and a towing capacity of 3,221 kilograms, making it a capable workhorse. Despite its hefty weight of around 2,721.5 kilograms, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities thanks to its body-on-frame construction and four-wheel independent suspension.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender, on the other hand, offered a range of engine options, including a turbocharged inline-six and a supercharged V8. The V8 engine produced 518 horsepower and 461 pound-feet of torque, providing impressive acceleration. The Defender's off-road prowess was unmatched, with features like the Terrain Response 2 system and permanent four-wheel drive. However, its on-road performance was less refined, with noticeable body roll and wind noise. The Defender's fuel economy varied depending on the engine, with the V8 being the least efficient.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, offering spacious seating across all three rows. It featured three-zone climate control, a power moonroof, and heated front seats. The Sequoia provided ample storage space, with 535 litres of cargo capacity behind the third row, expandable to 3,401 litres with the second and third rows folded. Its interior was designed for practicality, with numerous storage compartments and power outlets.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender excelled in versatility, offering various seating configurations, including a two-door model that could seat six. The Defender 130 provided up to eight seats, with features like a panoramic moonroof, separate climate zones, and USB ports for rear passengers. Cargo space varied by model, with the Defender 130 offering 2,180 litres with the rear seats folded. The Defender also offered numerous off-road accessories and features, enhancing its practicality for adventurous outings.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology was somewhat outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information screen. While it included standard features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity, it lacked the advanced infotainment systems found in newer SUVs. The Sequoia did offer a 14-speaker JBL audio system on higher trims and standard LED lighting.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender featured two touchscreen options running the Pivi Pro software, with the larger 11.4-inch screen offering better legibility. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a voice assistant, and connected apps. The Defender's technology package varied by trim, with features like a head-up display, surround sound, and configurable ambient lighting available on higher trims.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia had not been rated by major safety organizations, but it came equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, including features like adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. It also included a full complement of airbags, stability control, and traction control, ensuring a safe driving experience.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender received a five-star rating in Euro NCAP crash testing, praised for its solid structure. It included standard safety features like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Defender also offered advanced features like a 360-degree camera system and a head-up display, enhancing its safety credentials.