2025 Porsche Cayenne vs 2025 Land Rover Defender

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne presented itself as a versatile SUV, available in both a standard model with a squared-off rear end and a sporty Cayenne Coupe. The lineup ranged from the base Cayenne to the high-performance Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid, each with unique exterior features. The GTS trim, which was the focus of this review, boasted high gloss black trim, a distinctive front fascia with larger air intakes, and tinted headlights. Red brake calipers were visible through 21-inch anthracite gray wheels, and the Cayenne Coupe featured an adaptive rear spoiler. Inside, the Cayenne offered extensive customization options, from colour choices like Carmine Red to various trim and seat belt options. The cabin was well-organized, with mechanical controls for essential features and a dashboard-mounted shifter toggle for added storage space.

In contrast, the 2025 Land Rover Defender had a rugged appeal, with the Defender 110 four-door model striking a balance in design. The Defender offered a wide range of customization options, with base prices in Canada starting at $79,050 for the Defender 90 and reaching $160,720 for the Defender 130 V8. The Defender OCTA, available only as a 110, was priced at $198,460. The Defender 130 X test vehicle featured black exterior elements, upgraded interior materials, and comprehensive off-roading technology. It swapped standard 22-inch wheels for 20s with Pirelli Scorpion Zero tires and included options like the Towing Pack and Cold Climate Pack. The interior featured premium Windsor hides and Kvadrat fabric, with an industrial theme that emphasized quality materials over traditional luxury.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a range of engines, all capable of impressive performance. The base 3.0-litre V6 produced 348 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque, while the Cayenne S featured a V8 with 468 hp. The Turbo GT, available only as a coupe, boasted 650 hp. Plug-in hybrid options provided up to 729 hp for peak performance. The GTS trim, with a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8, delivered 493 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and reached a top speed of 275 km/h. The GTS offered a balance between sporty and comfortable driving, with precise steering and an agile suspension system. The optional carbon ceramic brakes provided ample stopping power, and the GTS transformed into a comfortable commuter in Normal mode.

The 2025 Land Rover Defender's test vehicle featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds and had a maximum tow rating of 3,720 kilograms. The Defender X came with an adaptive air suspension, hill descent control, and Terrain Response 2 driving modes. Off-road capabilities were impressive, with features like an electronic active differential and wade-sensing technology. On-road, the Defender 130 provided a comfortable ride, though its 2,578-kilogram curb weight and slow steering limited its agility on twisty roads. The Defender excelled in off-road conditions, with a maximum wading depth of 90 centimetres and generous ground clearance.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a la carte customization, with limited standard features. The base model included eight-way power-adjustable seats, two-zone climate control, and ambient lighting. The GTS trim added a GT Sport steering wheel and Race-Tex headliner. The options list was extensive, allowing for personalization of interior materials and features. The Cayenne accommodated five passengers, with ample headroom in the second row. Cargo space was slightly smaller than competitors, with 772 litres behind the second row and 1,708 litres with seats folded. The coupe version offered 576 and 1,486 litres, respectively. The Cayenne could tow up to 3,500 kilograms and carry a payload of over 635 kilograms.

The 2025 Land Rover Defender 130 provided three rows of spacious seating, with 12-way power-adjustable front seats featuring heating and ventilation. The Defender offered excellent visibility, though the square side mirrors seemed undersized. A panoramic sunroof and fixed glass panel over the third row created an open and airy feel. The second-row captain's chairs were heated and ventilated, with adjustable armrests. The Defender 130 excelled in third-row accessibility and comfort, with a heated and roomy third-row seat. Cargo space was limited, with 433 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,237 litres with seats folded. The maximum cargo volume was 2,520 litres with all rear seats folded.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne featured a 12.6-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen display with the Porsche Communication Management system. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Spotify, Apple Music, satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. An optional 10.9-inch passenger screen allowed for navigation and media control. The system was user-friendly, with quick response times and voice control options. A head-up display provided information to the driver, though it appeared dim with polarized sunglasses. The Cayenne included four USB-C charging ports and a cooled wireless charging area.

The 2025 Land Rover Defender was equipped with the Pivi Pro infotainment system, featuring an 11.4-inch touchscreen and a configurable digital driver display. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and connected services. The Pivi Pro system showed improved performance, with accurate voice command responses and an intuitive user experience. The Defender included a head-up display, ClearSight digital rearview mirror, and a surround-view camera system. The Towing Pack added a hands-free trailer reverse-steering system. The Meridian premium sound system provided impressive audio quality.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne included standard parking sensors, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. However, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-departure warning were optional. Porsche's InnoDrive adaptive cruise control system was not tested. The Cayenne had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS for safety.

The 2025 Land Rover Defender featured automatic high beam headlights, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality. A lane-centring assist feature was available. The Defender's safety systems operated smoothly, though lane keep assist occasionally attempted to steer the vehicle into a turnout area. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at press time.