2021 Land Rover Defender vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 Land Rover Defender was a modern reinterpretation of a classic, maintaining the rugged charm of its predecessors while embracing contemporary design elements. Its exterior featured half-round LED headlights, a structural-looking grille, and flat-topped fenders reminiscent of earlier models. The Defender's short overhangs and bold "DEFENDER" nameplate added to its robust appearance. Inside, the Defender showcased an exposed structure theme, with a dash held between horizontal beams and beefy controls. The interior materials were of high quality, with real metal and leather surfaces, providing a luxurious yet tough feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia retained a more traditional SUV design, with a modestly sized grille and elegant wheel arches. Its large dimensions made it appear substantial, and its 18-inch to 20-inch alloy wheels filled the wheel wells nicely. Inside, the Sequoia's design felt dated, with a flat dashboard and a small 7-inch touchscreen. However, the interior was well-built, with high-quality materials and tight seams. The Nightshade Special Edition added a modern touch with darkened chrome and black-painted finishes, enhancing its visual appeal.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender offered two powertrains: a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four with 296 horsepower and a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six mild-hybrid producing 395 horsepower. An eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD with Terrain Response were standard, with optional advanced settings. The Defender's off-road capabilities were impressive, with a 30.1-degree approach angle, 37.6-degree departure angle, and a maximum wading depth of 35.4 inches. On-road, the Defender was quick, with the 3.0-liter model reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. It had a towing capacity of 8,200 pounds and a payload capacity of over 1,700 pounds.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia featured a single powertrain: a 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a lockable Torsen limited-slip center differential. The Sequoia's truck roots gave it a payload capacity of around 1,300 pounds and a towing capacity of 7,400 pounds. Despite its weight, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with a 38.1-foot turning circle and excellent sightlines. Its off-road capabilities were enhanced by a four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension, making it a competent off-roader.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender utilized a unibody platform with extensive aluminum use for weight reduction and strength. Its four-wheel independent multi-link air suspension provided a comfortable ride both on and off-road. The Defender's interior offered flexible seating options, with a jump seat available between the front seats and a third-row seat in the long-wheelbase 110 model. Cargo space was generous, with 34.6 cubic feet behind the second row in the 110 model and up to 78.8 cubic feet with the first row folded.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, with spacious seating across all three rows. It featured three-zone climate control, a power moonroof, and available heated and ventilated front seats. The Sequoia's cargo compartment offered 18.9 cubic feet of space behind the third row, expanding to 66.6 cubic feet with the third row folded and 120.1 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The interior was equipped with ample storage options, including a large center console and door pockets.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender was equipped with Land Rover's Electronic Vehicle Architecture 2.0, allowing for remote software updates. Its Pivi Pro infotainment system featured a 10-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, with standard Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Defender offered multiple camera views, including a "transparent hood" view, and a range of audio system options, including a Meridian sound system.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch TFT driver information screen. However, it included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, WiFi connectivity, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Sequoia Limited added navigation and a 12-speaker audio system, with an optional premium audio package. While the Sequoia's technology lagged behind competitors, it featured LED exterior lighting and a rear backup camera.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender came with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including a perimeter alarm, front airbags, electronic traction control, dynamic stability control, and emergency braking. It also offered advanced features like blind spot assist, lane-keep assist, and a 360-degree parking aid. The Defender underwent extensive durability testing, ensuring its safety and reliability.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, which included a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. It also featured a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert and the STAR safety system, which included stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. The Sequoia's safety features were designed to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision.