2021 Land Rover Defender vs 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan had undergone a significant transformation since its 2018 redesign, addressing its previous size limitations and high price point. The result was a stylish, conservatively German vehicle that maintained a clean and simple exterior design. The horizontal grille and flat logo were quintessentially Volkswagen, offering a straightforward, car-like appearance. However, the interior did not match the exterior's appeal, with plain surfaces and hard black plastic dominating the cabin. While the digital dashboard and touchscreen infotainment system were highlights, the overall interior design felt uninspired and lacked the premium feel once associated with Volkswagen.

In contrast, the 2021 Land Rover Defender aimed to blend the classic charm of its predecessors with modern sophistication. The Defender's exterior featured half-round LED headlights and a structural grille, evoking a serious and capable demeanor. The design included nods to its heritage, such as flat-topped fenders and a floating roof, while the spare tire on the tailgate added a rugged touch. Inside, the Defender embraced an exposed structure theme, with a dash held by horizontal beams and robust controls. The leather seating was both tough and luxurious, and the digital instrument panel and touchscreen interface were seamlessly integrated, creating an authentic and high-quality interior experience.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. Despite its size, the Tiguan's powertrain offered a responsive throttle and minimal turbo lag, though it was not the quickest in its class. The Tiguan's larger size and longer wheelbase impacted its handling, making it less nimble than some competitors. However, its soft suspension provided a comfortable ride, even on rough roads, and the cabin was well-insulated from noise.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender offered two powertrains in the U.S.: a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four with 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six mild-hybrid producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD. The Defender excelled in off-road capabilities, with features like Terrain Response and impressive approach and departure angles. On-road, the Defender was quick, with the 3.0-liter model reaching 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds. It also boasted a towing capacity of 8,200 pounds and a payload capacity of over 1,700 pounds, making it versatile for various driving scenarios.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan offered practicality with its flexible seating arrangement. The second row could slide up to seven inches, making the third row more usable, though still cramped for adults. Front-drive models came standard with a third row, while it was optional on AWD models. The Tiguan's cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 73.5 cubic feet available in two-row models. The driver's seat provided a spacious feel, akin to midsize SUVs, thanks to its wide beam and abundant glass, making it appealing to those transitioning from larger vehicles.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender, built on a unibody platform, featured independent multi-link air suspension for enhanced on-road and off-road performance. The Defender's interior offered flexible seating options, including a jump seat between the front seats and an optional third row in the long-wheelbase 110 model. Cargo space was generous, with the 110 model providing up to 78.8 cubic feet behind the first row. The Defender's design allowed for a spacious and versatile interior, accommodating various passenger and cargo needs.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan featured the MIB II infotainment system, with a 6.5-inch touchscreen on the base model and an 8-inch upgrade on higher trims. The system was user-friendly, with bright graphics and a responsive interface. The Tiguan included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a WiFi hotspot. Higher trims offered a digital cockpit and wireless charging, enhancing the tech experience.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender introduced the Pivi Pro infotainment 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, including a 360-degree view, aiding in off-road navigation. The audio system could be upgraded to a Meridian sound system, and a head-up display and ClearSight rear-view mirror were available, providing a comprehensive tech package.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan came with standard safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring. However, advanced features like adaptive cruise control were reserved for higher trims. The Tiguan was rated a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS for models with LED headlights, though most models had lower-rated halogen headlights.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it included a robust list of standard safety features. These included emergency braking, blind spot assist, lane-keep assist, and a 360-degree parking aid. The Defender underwent extensive durability testing, ensuring its capability in various conditions.