2021 Land Rover Defender vs 2021 GMC Yukon

The 2021 GMC Yukon aimed to bridge the gap between rugged utility and premium appeal. While GMC tagged itself as "professional grade," it also leaned towards a "premium grade" identity, which positioned the Yukon above Chevrolet yet below the Cadillac offerings within General Motors. The redesigned 2021 Yukon offered both standard and extended body lengths, available in SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali trims. At $50,700 to start, the Yukon catered to a variety of buyers, with the AT4 trim designed for off-roaders featuring an improved approach angle, skid plates, and all-terrain tires. However, many consumers opted for the Denali trim, which prioritized substance over flashy branding but came at a steeper price—an as-tested Denali could reach $83,720.

Externally, the Yukon Denali Ultimate stood out with its imposing grille, Midnight Blue paint, and 22-inch wheels. Compared to the Chevrolet Tahoe High Country, the Yukon offered intricate grillework, chrome accents, and distinctive rear design, but it did come at a premium cost for some similar features. What set the Denali truly apart was its exclusive and sophisticated dashboard design, equipped with real wood trim, leather-wrapped panels, and an upscale interior touch.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender sought to modernize a classic. Drawing inspiration from its 1948 progenitor, the new Defender retained iconic design elements while introducing modern innovations. It featured half-round LED headlights resembling eyelids, a grille that appeared structural, and flat-topped fenders adorned with diamond-plate cladding. Practical aspects like the spare tire mounted on the side-hinged tailgate and shark gill-like vents behind the front fenders maintained its rugged allure.

In person, the Defender presented a robust and capable appearance, enhanced by its excellent fit and finish. The cabin merged exposed structural components with luxurious touches—such as leather-upholstered seats and real metal accents. A digital instrument panel nestled within the rugged dashboard complemented the high-quality yet thoughtfully designed interior. Overall, it balanced authenticity with contemporary comforts.

The 2021 GMC Yukon offered three engine options, with most trims equipped with a 355-horsepower 5.3-liter V8. However, the Denali exclusively featured a 420-horsepower 6.2-liter V8, delivering 460 lb-ft of torque at 4,100 rpm. Paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission, this engine ensured robust acceleration, although fuel economy was not its strong suit. The Denali averaged 14.4 mpg on a mixed-use loop and 16.2 mpg on a shorter route with just the driver.

With an EPA rating of 14 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined, the Denali trailed its predecessor in efficiency but improved in handling and ride quality due to its independent rear suspension and Four-Corner Air Ride. While the 22-inch wheels offered impressive grip, they also made the ride harsher. The Yukon Denali excelled in acceleration and steering but lacked in driving fun. The Active Response 4WD system, with its Autotrac two-speed transfer case and electronic limited-slip differential, enhanced cornering and wet traction.

Conversely, the 2021 Land Rover Defender offered two U.S. powertrains: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 296 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six mild-hybrid with 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. The Defender's off-road prowess was underscored by its 30.1-degree approach angle, 37.6-degree departure angle, and impressive ground clearance, which made it a versatile vehicle for any terrain.

The Defender 110, with its 3.0-liter powertrain, demonstrated a balanced driving character, offering a strong highway presence and nimbleness in city driving. It clocked 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds, slightly slower than the Yukon but sufficient for most needs. With a towing capacity of 8,200 pounds and over 1,700 pounds of payload capacity, the Defender was suitable for work and leisure.

The 2021 GMC Yukon's transition to an independent rear suspension translated into more spacious passenger and cargo areas. The Denali trim's front seats, with 12-way power adjustment, were heated and ventilated but lacked a massage function and became uncomfortable on longer drives. The second-row seats were adjustable and provided easier third-row access, which now offered adult-friendly thigh support and comfort.

Cargo capacity was 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 72.6 cubic feet with the third row folded. The maximum cargo space reached 122.9 cubic feet, rivaling minivan capacities. The extended Yukon XL offered even more room.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender, on a unibody platform with independent multi-link air suspension, provided a refined ride and off-road competency. The Defender's flexible interior included an optional third-row seat, although legroom was limited to 20.5 inches. Cargo space in the Defender 110 was 34.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 78.8 cubic feet with the second row folded flat, offering ample room for outdoor gear or groceries.

For technology enthusiasts, the 2021 GMC Yukon Denali with the Ultimate Package offered a comprehensive package. Standard features included a 10.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and over-the-air updates. Options included wireless charging, navigation, a Bose 14-speaker audio system, and a dual 12.6-inch Rear Seat Media system, though the latter had some connectivity issues.

An impressive 15-inch head-up display, rear camera mirror, and multiple surround-view cameras enhanced maneuverability and safety, making the Yukon technologically advanced.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender introduced the Pivi Pro infotainment system with a 10-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto came standard, supported by abundant USB and 12-volt outlets. The 3D surround-camera system offered multiple views, aiding in off-road and urban scenarios alike.

Audio options ranged from a standard six-speaker setup to a Meridian system with up to 700 watts of power. A full-color head-up display and ClearSight rear-view mirror added to the Defender's tech-rich environment.

The 2021 GMC Yukon featured a suite of advanced safety systems, including forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and a suite of Teen Driver and rear-seat reminder systems. Higher trims added blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warnings, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Despite its heft, the Yukon's advanced driving aids operated smoothly and effectively.

While the 2021 Land Rover Defender lacked crash-test ratings, it boasted multiple safety features, such as dynamic stability control, roll stability control, emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a 360-degree parking aid. During its development, the Defender had undergone rigorous durability testing, including extreme climates and conditions, positioning it as a resilient, off-road-ready vehicle.