2023 Land Rover Defender vs 2022 Volvo XC60

The 2022 Volvo XC60 underwent subtle styling changes, enhancing its sporty appearance with a new front fascia featuring "air blades" and a reworked grille that cleverly concealed sensors behind a heated Volvo logo. The rear bumper was redesigned to hide the tailpipes, and new wheel designs were introduced across all models. The interior remained largely unchanged, maintaining its clean design with a portrait-oriented touchscreen and minimal clutter. The B6 R-Design model added a touch of flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats, although the overall interior felt somewhat subdued compared to other Volvo models. The Inscription trim level offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel for added luxury.

In contrast, the 2023 Land Rover Defender boasted a design that harked back to its roots, with a boxy, rugged appearance that appealed to those nostalgic for the old LR4. The Defender's design was consistent, with square-jawed features and steep angles, reminiscent of classic trucks. Tasteful accents paid homage to the original 1980s Defender, including dome and faux-metal step plates on the hood, skylights along the roof, and a full-size wheel and tire mounted on the hatch. The Defender was available in three body styles, offering a range of configurations and accessory packages to suit various needs. Despite its lofty price, the interior focused on function and durability, with rubber and plastic coatings designed to resist stains and moisture, maintaining the Defender's hardcore character.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 options. Both powertrains combined a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt electrical system, providing an additional 13 horsepower in short bursts. The B6 powertrain also featured an electric supercharger, delivering a total output of 295 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The B5 version offered 258 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque. Both powertrains were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The XC60's acceleration times were slightly slower than the 2021 model, with the B5 reaching 60 mph in 6.5 seconds and the B6 in 5.9 seconds. The XC60 Recharge plug-in hybrid offered a more electrified powertrain, producing 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, achieving 60 mph in 5 seconds. The Polestar Engineered version increased output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender excelled off-road, with impressive grip, wheel articulation, and clearance. Its air suspension allowed it to tackle challenging terrains, although 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 V8 engine provided 518 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque, delivering exhilarating performance, while the six-cylinder engine offered 395 hp and 406 lb-ft. The mild-hybrid inline-six provided a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, with ratings of 12.9/10.4/11.8 litres per 100 kilometres. The V8's fuel economy was less favourable at 16.4/12.7/14.7 litres per 100 kilometres. The Defender's turbocharged four-cylinder engine was less impressive, with 296 hp and 295 lb-ft, making it less suitable for highway driving.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 maintained its competitive interior space, with above-average front-seat headroom but limited rear-seat headroom. Legroom was average for the segment. The mild-hybrid models offered 611 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,410 litres with them folded. Plug-in hybrid models had slightly less cargo capacity. The XC60 provided a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender excelled in versatility, offering unmatched seating configurations. The Defender 90 could seat six with a jump seat, while the 110 offered an optional third row, and the 130 had a standard third row for up to eight passengers. The Defender's large glass areas and panoramic moonroof provided excellent visibility. Cargo space varied by model, with the Defender 130 offering 2,180 litres with the third row and second row folded. The Defender's off-road capabilities were complemented by features like a metal roof rack, console refrigerator, and power-deployable side steps.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul with a 9-inch touchscreen running Android Automotive, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. The system integrated Google Assistant for voice control and Google Maps for navigation. Android users could sync their profiles, while iPhone compatibility was also promised. The system's graphics were praised, although Apple users might have differing opinions. The digital instrument cluster offered a "Calm" setting to minimize distractions.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender featured Pivi Pro infotainment with a standard 10-inch or optional 11.4-inch touchscreen. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a voice assistant, and connected apps. Standard features included heated front seats, keyless entry, and heated power-folding mirrors. Higher trims added features like air suspension, a head-up display, and a rearview mirror with a camera display. The Defender's technology package was comprehensive, enhancing both convenience and safety.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA for 2022, but the 2021 model received top ratings. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. An optional driver assistance system combined adaptive cruise control and automated lane centring.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender had not been rated by U.S. agencies but received five stars in Euro NCAP testing. Standard safety features included 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. The Defender lacked some airbags compared to competitors.