2022 Land Rover Defender vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2022 Land Rover Defender retained its iconic design, reminiscent of the original model with its boxy profile, tailgate-mounted spare tire, and flat hood. Despite these nostalgic elements, the Defender was a modern vehicle with rounded corners for improved aerodynamics and recessed LED headlights that gave it a unique character. The larger size of the modern Defender translated into more interior space and better ergonomics, offering a comfortable driving position with ample headroom and legroom. The interior design emphasized ruggedness with exposed metal and screws, complemented by a mix of leather and suede upholstery, making it suitable for off-road adventures without the worry of damaging a luxurious interior.

In contrast, the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover underwent an evolutionary redesign, maintaining its broad, rounded face and large, unadorned sheet metal. The most notable change was at the rear, where thin LED strips replaced the old square taillights, enhancing its imposing presence. The interior was simplified with fewer buttons and a larger touchscreen, offering a modern look while maintaining a familiar design. Premium materials, including leather and rich wood trim, adorned the cabin, providing a luxurious feel. The Range Rover's solid construction ensured a quiet and comfortable ride, making it a standout in the luxury SUV segment.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender offered a range of powertrains, starting with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. A mid-level 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six mild-hybrid powertrain delivered 395 hp and 406 lb-ft. The highlight was the new V8 engine, generating 518 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque, propelling the Defender 90 from zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds with a top speed of 149 mph. All models featured a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The V8 model included an electronic active rear differential and unique suspension tuning for sportier handling, though it felt less poised than the six-cylinder model. The Defender excelled in off-road capabilities, with features like a 4WD system with low range, good approach and departure angles, and up to 11.5 inches of ground clearance. It also boasted an 8,201-pound towing capacity.

The 2022 Range Rover offered two powertrains: a base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six mild hybrid producing 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, and an upgraded P530 with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The P400 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, impressive for its size. The Range Rover's handling was surprisingly agile, with well-managed body roll and a calm, composed driving experience. Rear-wheel steering enhanced maneuverability, making it easy to navigate tight spaces. The Range Rover retained its off-road prowess with the Terrain Response system, offering a smooth ride and a quiet cabin, making it one of the most comfortable luxury SUVs available.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender offered versatility with its seating configurations. The two-door Defender 90 featured 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats, though accessing them was challenging, and cargo space was limited. The four-door Defender 110 provided more options, with two-row, five-seat, and three-row, seven-seat configurations. Three-row models offered 11.4 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 70.4 cubic feet with the second row folded. Two-row versions had 18.1 cubic feet with the rear seats up, increasing to 51.7 cubic feet when folded. The interior emphasized functionality, with a large center-console storage bin and optional roof rack and cargo boxes for additional storage.

The 2022 Range Rover excelled in interior space, with ample room in the first two rows and excellent outward visibility. Front seats were cushioned for comfort, with available massage functions. Storage options included two glove boxes, a wireless charging pad, and a large center console bin. The second row offered power recline and sliding adjustments, with climate controls and USB-C ports for convenience. The optional third row provided adequate space for smaller passengers, with USB-C ports for charging. Cargo space behind the third row was 17.1 cubic feet, expanding to 93 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The split tailgate facilitated loading, with buttons to lower the air suspension for easier access.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender featured the Pivi Pro infotainment system with a 10-inch central touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster was standard on all but the base model. An optional 11.4-inch touchscreen was available, offering a user-friendly interface with distinctive graphics. Optional features included a 14-speaker Meridian audio system, head-up display, and a surround-view camera system for off-roading.

The 2022 Range Rover boasted a larger 13-inch touchscreen with the new Pivi Pro system, offering sharper graphics and quicker responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, complemented by a wireless charging pad. The Meridian audio system delivered impressive sound quality, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade. Additional tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and remote control via a smartphone app.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender came with standard driver-assist features like lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and traffic-sign recognition. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. Safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available.

The 2022 Range Rover included standard safety features such as frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and a surround-view camera system. These features performed well, with the surround-view cameras proving useful for off-roading. Safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available.