2021 Land Rover Defender vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2021 Land Rover Defender paid homage to its storied past while embracing modern design. It retained the rugged charm of its predecessors with features like half-round LED headlights and a structural grille. The Defender's exterior was marked by short overhangs and a planted stance, suggesting off-road prowess. Inside, the Defender showcased an exposed structure theme, with a dash held by horizontal beams and beefy controls. The interior materials were authentic and high-quality, with real metal and leather surfaces providing a luxurious yet robust feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid maintained a sharp, streamlined profile with familiar Lexus styling. Despite its sporty F Sport appearance, the NX Hybrid's design had become somewhat dated. The interior featured a stepped center console and lacked traditional luxury elements like wood trim. The Black Line package added sporty touches, but material quality felt more mainstream than luxury. The NX Hybrid's design was functional, but it didn't quite match the premium feel expected from a luxury brand.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender offered two powertrains: a 296-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four and a 395-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six mild-hybrid. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD. The Defender excelled in off-road capabilities, boasting impressive approach and departure angles, and a wading depth of 35.4 inches. On-road, it delivered a comfortable ride, with the 3.0-liter model achieving 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The Defender also had a towing capacity of 8,200 pounds.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 194 hp. It came standard with AWD and had a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds. The NX Hybrid prioritized fuel efficiency over performance, with a clunky transition between electric and gasoline power. The sport-tuned suspension improved handling, but the steering lacked feedback. Drive modes offered minimal impact on performance, and the NX Hybrid felt less refined compared to newer models on the TNGA platform.

The Defender's unibody platform, shared with other Land Rover models, provided strength and reduced weight. Its independent multi-link air suspension enhanced both on-road comfort and off-road capability. The Defender offered flexible seating options, including a jump seat and a third row in the 110 model. Cargo space was generous, with up to 78.8 cubic feet available.

The Lexus NX Hybrid had limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. The front seats were comfortable, with 10-way power adjustment and optional heated and ventilated features. The sloping roofline and thick pillars hindered rear visibility. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. A power liftgate was available but not standard.

The Defender featured Land Rover's Electronic Vehicle Architecture 2.0, allowing remote software updates. Its Pivi Pro infotainment system included a 10-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Multiple camera views, including a 360-degree system, aided off-roading. The audio system could be upgraded to a Meridian setup with up to 14 speakers.

The Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, with an 8-inch display and a difficult-to-use Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While it supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system felt outdated. An eight-speaker audio system was standard, with a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system available on higher trims.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender lacked crash-test ratings but came with a comprehensive list of safety features, including emergency braking, blind spot assist, and a 360-degree parking aid. It underwent extensive durability testing, ensuring reliability in harsh conditions.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid received a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It included the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, with features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, but a 360-degree camera system was absent.