2021 Land Rover Defender vs 2022 Acura MDX

2021 Land Rover Defender
2021 Land Rover Defender
$46,100MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Acura MDX
2022 Acura MDX
$48,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Land Rover Defender
$46,100MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Acura MDX
$48,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$46,100

MSRP

$48,000

Listings

144

Listings

649

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Pros

  • Excellent off-road capability

  • Stylish design

  • Spacious

Cons

  • Poor fuel economy

  • Poor handling

  • Interior materials feel cheap

Pros

  • Stylish design

  • Great handling

  • Excellent value for money

Cons

  • Cramped third row

2021 Land Rover Defender Reviews Summary

The 2021 Land Rover Defender is a midsize SUV with four-wheel drive (4WD), available in short-wheelbase three-door (Defender 90) and long-wheelbase five-door (Defender 110) forms. After a long absence, the Defender returned to the United States for the 2020 model year, transformed into a thoroughly modern, 21st-century SUV. While it was gone, its original Land Rover Series I, II, III, 90, 110, and Defender ancestors became treasured classics. The new Defender carries its legacy forward, with the quest to bring new followers to its path.

2022 Acura MDX Reviews Summary

Skipping the 2021 model year, the Acura MDX leaps ahead into 2022, riding on a new platform with a new exterior design, new interior look, refreshed platform, and a more assertive attitude. Now entering its fourth generation of production since its introduction as a 2001 model, the MDX rewards its loyal audience with improvements across the board—while retaining its essential nature.
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 296 hp I4

Engine

3.5L 290 hp V6

Drive Train

AWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

6

Seating Capacity

7

Horsepower

296 hp @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower

290 hp @ 6200 rpm

MPG City

18

MPG City

19

MPG Highway

21

MPG Highway

26
2021 Land Rover Defender
2021 Land Rover Defender
$46,100MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Acura MDX
2022 Acura MDX
$48,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Land Rover Defender
$46,100MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Acura MDX
$48,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$46,100
$48,000
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.7

4.6

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Read full review

8.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Excellent off-road capability

  • Stylish design

  • Spacious

Cons

  • Poor fuel economy

  • Poor handling

  • Interior materials feel cheap

Pros

  • Stylish design

  • Great handling

  • Excellent value for money

Cons

  • Cramped third row

Summary
The 2021 Land Rover Defender is a midsize SUV with four-wheel drive (4WD), available in short-wheelbase three-door (Defender 90) and long-wheelbase five-door (Defender 110) forms. After a long absence, the Defender returned to the United States for the 2020 model year, transformed into a thoroughly modern, 21st-century SUV. While it was gone, its original Land Rover Series I, II, III, 90, 110, and Defender ancestors became treasured classics. The new Defender carries its legacy forward, with the quest to bring new followers to its path.
Skipping the 2021 model year, the Acura MDX leaps ahead into 2022, riding on a new platform with a new exterior design, new interior look, refreshed platform, and a more assertive attitude. Now entering its fourth generation of production since its introduction as a 2001 model, the MDX rewards its loyal audience with improvements across the board—while retaining its essential nature.
Video
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.0L 296 hp I4
3.5L 290 hp V6
Drive Train
AWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
6
7
Horsepower
296 hp @ 4000 rpm
290 hp @ 6200 rpm
MPG City
18
19
MPG Highway
21
26
Look and feel

2021 Land Rover Defender

8/10

2022 Acura MDX

8/10
According to CarGurus experts, the 2021 Land Rover Defender scores 8 out of 10 for look and feel. The original Land Rover Defender has a rich heritage dating back to 1948, with a distinctive design featuring round headlamps, a boxy cabin, and a rugged yet timeless appeal. The 2021 model brings a modern touch while honoring its predecessors, with high-quality materials, a bold exterior, and a thoughtfully designed interior. The 2022 Acura MDX also scores 8 out of 10 for look and feel. The new MDX boasts a sportier and more assertive design, with enhancements like Jewel Eye LED headlights, bigger wheels, and a more elegant cabin layout. The use of authentic materials and customizable interior lighting create a luxurious and comfortable atmosphere for passengers.
Picture of 2021 Land Rover Defender
Picture of 2021 Land Rover Defender
Picture of 2021 Land Rover Defender
Picture of 2021 Land Rover Defender
Picture of 2021 Land Rover Defender
Picture of 2021 Land Rover Defender
Picture of 2021 Land Rover Defender
Picture of 2021 Land Rover Defender
Picture of 2021 Land Rover Defender
Performance

2021 Land Rover Defender

8/10

2022 Acura MDX

8/10
CarGurus experts rate both the 2021 Land Rover Defender and the 2022 Acura MDX 8 out of 10 for performance. The 2021 Land Rover Defender offers two powertrain options, with impressive off-road capabilities and solid on-road performance. The Defender's turbocharged engines deliver ample power, while features like Terrain Response and advanced differential options enhance its off-road prowess. On the other hand, the 2022 Acura MDX comes with a refined 3.5-liter V6 engine and a new 10-speed automatic transmission. The MDX excels in handling and responsiveness, with the Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive system providing excellent traction and cornering capabilities. The suspension upgrades further improve ride quality and overall performance.
Form and function

2021 Land Rover Defender

9/10

2022 Acura MDX

8/10
When it comes to cargo capacity, the 2021 Land Rover Defender offers ample space for gear and luggage. The Defender 110 model provides up to 78.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row, while the 90 model offers 15.6 cubic feet. The flexible seating configurations in both models make it easy to accommodate passengers and cargo for diverse travel needs. In comparison, the 2022 Acura MDX offers versatile seating options and ample cargo space for a three-row SUV. With between 39.1 and 48.4 cubic feet of storage behind the third row, and up to 95 cubic feet with both rear rows folded, the MDX provides practical and functional storage solutions. The hands-free power tailgate and hidden underfloor storage add to its convenience.
Technology

2021 Land Rover Defender

8/10

2022 Acura MDX

8/10
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Land Rover Defender 8 out of 10 for technology. The Defender features Land Rover's Electronic Vehicle Architecture 2.0, allowing for remote software updates and connectivity features. The Pivi Pro infotainment system with multiple camera views, premium audio options, and advanced safety technologies enhance the overall tech experience. For the 2022 Acura MDX, technology is a highlight with features like the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System and the Acura Precision Cockpit. The standard 12.3-inch infotainment screen, wireless device charging, Amazon Alexa integration, and AcuraWatch suite of safety technologies provide a comprehensive tech package for drivers and passengers.
Safety

2021 Land Rover Defender

7/10

2022 Acura MDX

8/10
In terms of safety, the 2021 Land Rover Defender scores 7 out of 10 while the 2022 Acura MDX scores 8 out of 10. The Defender comes equipped with a range of standard safety features, including advanced driver assistance systems, durable construction, and extensive testing. The upcoming V8 model further enhances safety capabilities for off-road adventures. On the other hand, the 2022 Acura MDX prioritizes safety with a high-strength steel structure, advanced safety technologies, and pedestrian safety enhancements. The AcuraWatch suite of features, low-speed braking control, and collision mitigation systems contribute to the overall safety of the MDX for drivers and passengers.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Land Rover Defender is 8.0 out of 10, while the 2022 Acura MDX scores 8.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the recommendation is as follows:

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Land Rover Defender is 8.0 out of 10, while the 2022 Acura MDX scores 8.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the recommendation is as follows:

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By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.

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