2021 Land Rover Defender vs 2020 Jeep Compass

The 2020 Jeep Compass was a handsome SUV, drawing inspiration from the refined side of the Jeep brand, much like the Grand Cherokee. It was available in four core trim levels: Sport, Latitude, Limited, and Trailhawk, with various packages and special edition upgrades to enhance the lineup. The base model started at $22,280, while a fully equipped Compass Limited with all-wheel drive and numerous options could reach $39,755. Despite its upscale features, the Compass had some cost-cutting measures that detracted from its overall appeal, such as low-quality plastic parts and flimsy-feeling components. However, it was a significant improvement over the original Compass model, offering soft-touch surfaces, premium leather, and advanced technology.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender aimed to echo the timeless cool of its predecessors while embracing modernity. It featured half-round LED headlights, a structural-looking grille, and flat-topped fenders reminiscent of earlier models. The Defender's design was both bold and tasteful, with a box-shaped cabin and a tall roofline. Inside, the exposed structure theme continued, with a dash held between horizontal beams and beefy controls. The leather-upholstered seating was both tough and luxurious, and the digital instrument panel was crisp and clean. The Defender's interior was thoughtfully designed, with high-quality materials and a substantial feel, making it a standout in its class.

The 2020 Jeep Compass was powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, known as the Tigershark, producing 180 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. Despite these figures, the engine was loud, slow, and thirsty, with sluggish acceleration and a test average of 23.1 mpg, falling short of the EPA's 25 mpg combined rating. The nine-speed automatic transmission often shifted harshly, and the automatic engine stop/start system could be inconvenient. The Compass's suspension controlled body roll but allowed too much vertical motion and impact harshness. While it offered decent off-road capability, especially in Trailhawk trim, the Compass Limited test vehicle lacked some off-road features, though it handled moderately difficult trails without issues.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender offered two powertrains in the U.S.: a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four with 296 horsepower and a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six mild-hybrid with 395 horsepower. A supercharged 5.0-liter V8 was announced for 2022. All models featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD with Terrain Response. The Defender boasted impressive off-road specs, including a 30.1-degree approach angle and 35.4 inches of wading depth. On-road, the Defender was quick, with the 3.0-liter model reaching 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds. It had a maximum towing capacity of 8,200 pounds and a payload capacity of over 1,700 pounds. The Defender excelled in both highway comfort and city maneuverability, proving its versatility.

The 2020 Jeep Compass offered a Luxury Seat Group option, adding premium leather, ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable front passenger seat. The back seat was roomy, with air conditioning vents, a USB port, and a 115-volt power outlet for rear passengers. Cargo space was 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 59.8 cubic feet with the seat folded down, surpassing the Renegade and Cherokee. However, storage inside the cabin was limited, with awkwardly positioned cupholders.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender rode on a unibody platform, using aluminum for weight reduction and strength. It featured four-wheel independent multi-link air suspension, enhancing both on-road and off-road performance. The Defender offered flexible seating options, including a jump seat and a third-row seat in the 110 model. Cargo space was 34-34.6 cubic feet behind the second row in the 110 and 15.6 cubic feet in the 90, with a maximum of 78.8 cubic feet in the 110.

The 2020 Jeep Compass featured the Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and 4G LTE WiFi connectivity. It also offered SiriusXM Guardian services, navigation, and an Alpine premium audio system. Uconnect was intuitive, though some features were buried in menus. Voice recognition worked well, but navigation required specific prompts.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender used Land Rover's Electronic Vehicle Architecture 2.0, allowing remote software updates. It featured the Pivi Pro system with a 10-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Defender offered multiple camera views, a six-speaker audio system, and optional Meridian sound systems. A head-up display and ClearSight rear-view mirror were also available.

The 2020 Jeep Compass offered optional safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The IIHS rated it Good in most tests, except for headlight performance, while the NHTSA gave it mixed ratings.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS. However, it came with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including airbags, traction control, stability control, emergency braking, and a 360-degree parking aid. The Defender underwent extensive durability testing, ensuring its safety and reliability.