2019 BMW X5 vs 2020 Land Rover Defender

The 2019 BMW X5 was designed with a focus on providing a sedan-like driving experience, despite its size and weight. BMW succeeded in creating a vehicle that prioritized a smooth ride on pavement over off-road capabilities, which was a forward-thinking approach at the time. The X5 offered a five-passenger layout, with an optional third row that was not particularly spacious. It came with two turbocharged engine options: a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder for the xDrive40i and a 4.4-liter V8 for the xDrive50i, both paired with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. The base model included a comprehensive suite of features and safety technologies, with various packages available to enhance comfort, sportiness, or off-road capability.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender brought back the classic, boxy design reminiscent of the beloved LR4, with squared-off edges, a rising roofline, and round headlights. It was a vehicle that embraced its rugged heritage, offering features like step plates and a ladder for roof access, although some elements were more for show than function. The Defender's design allowed for customization with various themes and options, making it suitable for both urban and off-road adventures. Inside, the Defender's interior was basic and industrial, with cloth seats and exposed screws, but it offered practical features like a jump seat and a configurable cabin layout. The Defender was built to handle tough conditions, with a focus on durability and functionality.

The 2019 BMW X5 was known for its impressive performance, thanks to its turbocharged engines. The xDrive40i's 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine delivered 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to reach 60 mph in just over 5 seconds. The xDrive50i's 4.4-liter V8 offered even more power, with 456 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, achieving 60 mph in around 4 seconds. The X5's ride quality was enhanced by its Cluster Architecture platform, which combined steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber for strength and reduced weight. The optional air suspension provided adjustable ride height and excellent bump absorption, making the X5 a smooth and sporty ride.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender justified its price with its performance capabilities. It featured a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine with 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, aided by a mild hybrid system. This setup eliminated turbo lag and provided consistent power. The Defender's off-road prowess was supported by Terrain Response 2 and adjustable-height suspension, allowing it to tackle challenging terrains with ease. The Defender's handling was reminiscent of older SUVs, with slow steering and noticeable body lean, but it excelled in off-road scenarios, offering a point-and-click driving experience for various terrains.

Inside the 2019 BMW X5, the design had shifted to a more aggressive style with dual 12.3-inch screens for the iDrive infotainment system. While the design was appealing, some materials felt less premium compared to competitors. The seats were comfortable but lacked ventilation, making them hot during warmer months. The X5 offered ample space for passengers and cargo, with 33.9 cubic feet of trunk space expandable to 72.3 cubic feet. The air suspension made loading cargo easier, and the X5 could tow up to 7,200 pounds.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender prioritized functionality and durability in its interior design. It offered a unique cabin layout with options for a jump seat and a third row, accommodating up to seven passengers. The Defender's interior was simple and easy to use, with generous headroom and legroom. Cargo space varied depending on the model, with the two-door 90 offering 16 cubic feet and the four-door 110 providing up to 79 cubic feet with seats folded. The Defender's towing capacity was an impressive 8,200 pounds, showcasing its capability.

The 2019 BMW X5's technology offerings were a mixed bag. The iDrive interface was well-designed but required time to learn. Gesture control and voice commands were not always reliable, and the Driving Assistance Plus package's semi-autonomous features struggled at high speeds. However, the adaptive cruise control and Extended Traffic Jam Assistant were effective. The X5 offered options like Parking Assistant Plus, a night-vision system, and premium sound systems, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender introduced the Pivi Pro infotainment system, a significant improvement over previous JLR systems. It featured dual SIM cards for data streaming and over-the-air updates. The interface was more user-friendly, though some elements were still challenging to navigate. The Defender's off-road capabilities were supported by front cameras and a rearview mirror that doubled as a screen. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a range of driver assistance technologies, with additional options available on higher trims.

The 2019 BMW X5 received a 4-star rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. It featured a brake-by-wire system and M Sport brakes, providing reliable stopping power. The X5's safety suite included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot detection.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender had not been rated by U.S. crash testing agencies. It came with six airbags and standard safety features like forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and 360-degree cameras. Optional features included rear cross-traffic alerts and exit alerts.