2023 Land Rover Defender vs 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was a bold step into the future of electrified mobility, marking a departure from its predecessor, the original Ioniq. This new model was the first in Hyundai's Ioniq sub-brand, dedicated solely to electric vehicles. Its exterior design was a mix of minimalistic lines and intricate details, such as the Parametric Pixel design, which gave it a concept car feel. The Ioniq 5's lighting elements, including headlights and taillights, were a nod to digital nostalgia, reminiscent of 8-bit graphics. Inside, the Ioniq 5 offered a serene "Living Space" with sustainable materials and a focus on comfort, featuring a "Relaxation" mode for the driver's seat and a spacious, eco-friendly cabin.

In contrast, the 2023 Land Rover Defender embraced a rugged, classic truck design with its boxy shape and industrial accents. It paid homage to the original 1980s Defender with features like dome step plates and skylights. The Defender's interior was functional and durable, with a focus on practicality over luxury. Despite its high price, the cabin was simple, with rubber and plastic materials designed to withstand the elements. The Defender's build quality was excellent, but it lacked the opulence of its Range Rover siblings. Its seating configurations were versatile, offering options for up to eight passengers, making it a practical choice for families and adventurers alike.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offered a range of powertrains and configurations, catering to different driving needs. It came in SE, SEL, and Limited trims, with rear-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel drive as an option. The base model featured a 128-kW motor with 168 horsepower and a range of 220 miles. The extended-range variants boasted a 168-kW motor producing 225 hp and a range of 303 miles. The AWD version delivered 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque, with a slightly reduced range of 256 miles. The Ioniq 5's performance was solid for a midsize crossover, with a focus on comfort and control rather than sporty dynamics. It featured four drive modes, including Sport, which added excitement but reduced range. The Ioniq 5's quiet cabin and advanced regenerative braking system enhanced the driving experience.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender excelled in off-road performance, with its permanent four-wheel drive and Terrain Response 2 system. It offered a choice of engines, including a turbocharged inline-six and a supercharged V8. The V8 engine delivered 518 horsepower and 461 lb-ft of torque, providing impressive acceleration. The six-cylinder engine, part of a mild hybrid powertrain, offered 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. The Defender's on-road performance was less refined, with noticeable body roll and wind noise. However, its off-road capabilities were unmatched, making it a formidable choice for adventurous drivers. The Defender's fuel economy varied, with the V8 returning lower ratings compared to the more efficient six-cylinder engine.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 utilized the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), maximizing interior space and utility. Its wheelbase was longer than the seven-passenger Hyundai Palisade, offering a roomy cabin with 133.7 cubic feet of interior volume. The Ioniq 5 prioritized passenger comfort, with a "Living Space" theme and a moveable center console. The leatherette seats were comfortable and supportive, catering to various driver sizes. The Ioniq 5's design allowed for easy entry and exit, with a modern take on the retro front bench seat.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender offered exceptional versatility with its seating configurations. The Defender 90 could seat six with a jump seat, while the 110 and 130 models offered third-row seating for up to eight passengers. The Defender's large glass areas and panoramic moonroof provided excellent visibility. Cargo space varied across models, with the 130 offering up to 77 cubic feet with seats folded. The Defender's off-road capabilities were complemented by features like a metal roof rack, console refrigerator, and power-deployable side steps, making it a practical choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured advanced technology, including a high-voltage system with vehicle-to-load capabilities. It supported ultra-fast charging, reaching 80% battery capacity in 18 minutes. Hyundai partnered with Electrify America to offer unlimited fast-charging sessions for two years. The Ioniq 5's multimedia features included a redesigned Blue Link app, digital key, and over-the-air updates. The 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment were elegant and intuitive, with anti-glare coating for clear visibility.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender offered two touchscreen infotainment systems with Pivi Pro software. The standard 10-inch screen and optional 11.4-inch screen were user-friendly, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Defender's technology included heated front seats, a proximity key, and power-folding mirrors. Higher trims added features like a Meridian stereo, adaptive cruise control, and a head-up display. The Defender's technology package was comprehensive, enhancing both comfort and convenience.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was equipped with Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems. Standard features included blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and collision avoidance. The Ioniq 5 also featured Hyundai Highway Drive Assist I, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system with machine-learning adaptive cruise control. While safety ratings were not yet available, Hyundai's track record suggested high marks for the Ioniq 5.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender received a five-star rating in Euro NCAP crash testing, praised for its solid structure. It came with six airbags, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Defender offered optional features like a digital instrument panel, head-up display, and 360-degree camera system. While it lacked some advanced safety features, the Defender's robust build and standard safety equipment provided peace of mind.