2023 Land Rover Defender vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 marked a significant evolution from Volvo's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while stepping into the luxury class. After its acquisition by China's Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, Volvo developed new platforms, including the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for the XC90, which debuted as a 2016 model. The 2022 XC90 featured a sleek, aerodynamic profile with pronounced wheel arches and a distinctive snub nose, reminiscent of the classic 245 wagon. The "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights added a playful nod to its Swedish roots. Inside, the XC90 boasted a "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury" aesthetic, with natural wood and metal trim, a crystal gear selector, and options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender, on the other hand, embraced a rugged, industrial design that harkened back to the classic 1980s Defender. Its boxy shape, square-jawed face, and steeply angled fittings gave it a distinctive, utilitarian look. The Defender's design included nods to its heritage, such as dome and faux-metal step plates on the hood, skylights along the roof, and a full-size spare wheel mounted on the hatch. Available in three body styles—90, 110, and 130—the Defender offered unparalleled versatility. Inside, the Defender prioritized function and durability, with rubber and plastic surfaces designed to resist moisture and stains. Despite its high price, the interior remained basic, with exposed screws and plain air vents, maintaining the Defender's hardcore character.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid with a combined 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90's driving experience was smooth and controlled, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the Recharge Inscription extended range model. Fuel efficiency varied, with the T5 achieving 10.1 L/100 km combined, the T6 at 10.8, and the Recharge offering an 8.8 L/100 km combined rating in hybrid mode.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender excelled off-road, with impressive grip, wheel articulation, and clearance. Its turbocharged inline-six and supercharged V8 engines provided robust performance, with the V8 delivering 518 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque. The six-cylinder engine, part of a 48-volt mild hybrid system, offered 395 hp and 406 lb-ft. The Defender's on-road performance was less refined, with noticeable body roll, slow steering, and wind noise. Fuel economy ratings varied, with the four-cylinder at 13.0 L/100 km combined, the six-cylinder at 11.8, and the V8 at 14.7. Despite its off-road prowess, the Defender's on-road dynamics were less polished than its competitors.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold of the second row. While the third row was suitable for children, adults found it lacking in legroom and support. The XC90 offered up to 1,855 litres of cargo space with the second and third rows folded and could tow up to 2,250 kilograms. The interior featured ample storage, a panoramic moonroof, and effective climate control, making it a comfortable family vehicle.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender offered unmatched seating configurations, with the Defender 90 seating six with a jump seat, the 110 offering an optional third row, and the 130 accommodating up to eight passengers. The Defender's large windows and skylights provided excellent visibility, while the 130 featured a panoramic moonroof. Cargo space varied, with the 130 offering 2,180 litres with the third row folded. The Defender's versatility extended to off-road accessories, including roof racks, a console refrigerator, and a winch.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering smartphone-like gestures and Bluetooth functionality. While the system was occasionally glitchy, Apple CarPlay improved its performance. The XC90 also included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a head-up display, and a Harman-Kardon audio system on higher trims. USB ports were available for device charging.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender offered two touchscreen infotainment systems with Pivi Pro software, available in 10-inch and 11.4-inch sizes. Both screens were quick and easy to use, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Standard features included heated front seats, keyless entry, and heated mirrors. Higher trims added features like a Meridian sound system, air suspension, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist. It received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, earning the Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender scored five stars in Euro NCAP crash testing, praised for its solid structure. 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.