2024 Land Rover Defender vs 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan

The Land Rover Defender has a rich history, tracing back to its roots as a go-anywhere vehicle designed for the most demanding conditions. The original Defender was revered for its rustic charm and capability, but when it was redesigned and reintroduced to North America for the 2020 model year, it was a far more sophisticated vehicle.

The 2024 Defender is perfectly poised to capitalize on the surging popularity of overlanding, offering both the capability and the aesthetic appeal that enthusiasts crave. Whether you’re embarking on a long-distance expedition or simply outfitting your vehicle to look the part, the Defender delivers with style and substance.

Verdict: For the 2024 model year, the Defender introduces a host of new features, enhancing its already impressive lineup. Notably, the availability of one of its powerful V8 engine options has been expanded, providing drivers with even more choices when it comes to performance and capability. These updates ensure that the Defender remains at the forefront of the SUV market, offering unparalleled versatility and driving enjoyment.

The all-new 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan corrects the last generation's user interface issues while making incremental improvements throughout the rest of the vehicle. The company’s best-selling model in North America easily meets expectations for a compact SUV, and it’s the only entrant with that German look and feel. Otherwise, it doesn't distinguish itself from the rest of the pack.

Verdict: The new Tiguan is a handsome crossover and the only sub-luxury German option. However, amid an incredibly competitive field, the redesigned Tiguan does too little to separate itself from the crowd.