2020 Toyota Land Cruiser vs 2020 Land Rover Defender

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was a vehicle that grew on you with its understated elegance. It wasn't flashy or exotic, but its subtle design choices became apparent after spending time behind the wheel. The dished hood, for instance, was a functional design that improved forward sight lines, making it easier to navigate obstacles. The fenders bulged slightly to accommodate wheel travel and visually indicated the vehicle's width. The Heritage Edition added a touch of retro flair with blackened trim, a unique grille, and bronze BBS wheels. Inside, the Land Cruiser approached luxury with its black perforated leather-trimmed seating and functional dash, though it leaned towards a more utilitarian aesthetic.

In contrast, the 2020 Land Rover Defender brought back the classic boxy design reminiscent of the beloved LR4. Its squared-off edges, rising roofline, and round headlights were a nod to its heritage. The Defender's design was both classic and purposeful, with features like step plates and a ladder for roof access, though some elements were more for show than function. The taillights and external spare tire added to its rugged appeal. Inside, the Defender's cabin was industrial and basic, with cloth seats and exposed screws. It offered a unique jump seat option and a variety of configurations, making it versatile for different needs. The Defender's design inspired adventure, inviting drivers to explore off the beaten path.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was renowned for its confidence and capability, powered by a 5.7-liter V8 engine producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive, with a fuel economy of 13 mpg city and 17 mpg highway. The Land Cruiser's off-road prowess was supported by its Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and Multi-Terrain Select control, allowing it to tackle various terrains with ease. Its approach, departure, and breakover angles, along with a fording depth of 27.55 inches, made it a formidable off-roader. Despite its size, the Land Cruiser offered a serene and relaxing driving experience, with controlled body roll and excellent visibility.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender justified its price with a plush and quiet ride, thanks to its standard air springs. It offered an optional 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine with 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, featuring a mild hybrid system for consistent power delivery. The Defender's off-road capabilities were enhanced by Terrain Response 2 and adjustable-height suspension, allowing it to conquer challenging terrains. It could handle steep angles and deep water crossings with ease. The Defender's driving experience was reminiscent of older SUVs, with slow steering and generous suspension lean, but it excelled in off-road scenarios, providing a smooth and capable ride.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser balanced its dual role as a commuter and overlander with features like skid plates, tow hooks, and a roof rack. Its three-row configuration offered ample space for families, with heated second-row seats and a split tailgate for easy loading. The Land Cruiser's interior boasted four-zone climate control, numerous cup holders, and a cooling box in the center console. It could tow up to 8,100 pounds and featured Trailer-Sway Control for added safety. The split tailgate design added a touch of retro charm, making it perfect for picnics and outdoor adventures.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender was designed for durability and versatility, with a minimalist interior that prioritized functionality. It offered various seating configurations, including a unique jump seat and an optional third row. The Defender's cabin was spacious, with generous headroom and legroom, and featured a panoramic moonroof for added light. Cargo space varied depending on the model, with the two-door 90 offering up to 58 cubic feet and the four-door 110 providing up to 79 cubic feet. The Defender's towing capacity was impressive at 8,200 pounds, and its rugged design was tested to withstand tough conditions.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser featured a Qi-compatible charging station and Toyota Premium Audio with Integrated Navigation. Its sound system included 14 JBL speakers, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio, though it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 9-inch touchscreen interface was functional but felt small compared to competitors. The Enhanced Multi-Terrain Monitor camera system provided useful views for off-roading and tight parking spaces.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender introduced the Pivi Pro infotainment system, a significant improvement over previous versions. It featured two SIM cards for streaming data and over-the-air updates. The interface was user-friendly, though some icons were small and hard to read. The Defender's off-road capabilities were enhanced by front cameras and a rearview mirror that doubled as a screen. It offered a 12-inch digital instrument panel and optional head-up display. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and 360-degree cameras, with additional options available on higher trims.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser had not been crash-tested by major safety organizations, but its robust body structure and advanced safety features provided peace of mind. It came with Toyota Safety Sense P, which included a pre-collision system, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Land Cruiser also featured the Star Safety System, 10 airbags, and Safety Connect for emergency assistance.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender had not been rated by U.S. crash testing agencies, but it offered a range of standard safety features. These included forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and 360-degree cameras. Optional features like rear cross-traffic alerts and exit alerts added to its safety credentials.