Today we’re doing the most awaited comparisons of the year—Toyota’s new 2025 Land Cruiser vs. Land Rover’s new Defender. These two are among the coolest, boxy off-road luxury SUVs on the market, and we’re going to find out which one stands out as the best.
Engine and Performance
Let’s start with what powers these beasts. The Land Cruiser comes equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a hybrid system and an 8-speed automatic transmission. This setup produces 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, with an average fuel economy in the mid-20s.
The Defender, on the other hand, is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 mild hybrid engine, also mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. It offers more horsepower at 395 but slightly less torque at 406 lb-ft. However, its fuel economy is a bit lower, averaging in the low 20s to high teens, depending on your driving style.
Exterior Design
When you look at the front ends of both vehicles, they both boast that iconic boxy off-roader design. However, there are some distinct differences. The Land Cruiser features rectangular headlights, although circular headlights are also available. The Defender exclusively sports circular headlights within a boxy frame, giving it a unique appearance.
In terms of trim, the Land Rover features a lot of brushed or painted trim on the front end, while the Land Cruiser combines painted and plastic trim. Both designs are visually appealing and cater to the preferences of off-road enthusiasts.
Wheels, Tires, and Suspension
Both models come with 20-inch wheels, with only slight differences in tire size—255/60 R20 for the Land Cruiser and 265/60 R20 for the Defender. The Defender’s wheels have a distinctive appearance, almost resembling steel wheels, and are paired with all-terrain tires. In contrast, the Land Cruiser is equipped with more street-oriented tires.
Suspension-wise, the Land Cruiser has a fixed suspension, whereas the Defender boasts air suspension, offering a smoother ride and eliminating the need for side steps.
Additionally, the Defender features independent rear suspension, while the Land Cruiser sticks with a solid rear axle, showcasing their different approaches to construction.
Interior Features
Moving inside, the Land Cruiser offers a pop-up window for easy access to the cargo area, adding a touch of convenience. The Defender features a traditional swing gate, reminiscent of classic off-roaders like the G-Wagon. Although the Land Cruiser’s battery pack slightly reduces cargo space, it remains spacious and practical.
When it comes to passenger space, the Defender offers more rear legroom and a stylish door panel design, complete with Alpine windows and perforated leather seats.
The Land Cruiser, while slightly more cramped in the rear, still provides a comfortable ride with its own climate zone and high-quality materials.
Modern vs. Traditional
The Defender stands out with its full digital gauge cluster, a stylish interior with practical controls, and the option for a larger infotainment screen. It also comes with a center and rear locking differential system, visible through the slope assist function, and a camera rearview mirror, adding to its modern appeal.
The Land Cruiser, though more conservative in design, offers a similar digital gauge cluster, a comprehensive infotainment system, and advanced off-road features like multi-terrain select and crawl control. It also includes a traditional shifter and a 360-degree camera system, making it a formidable contender in the technology department.
On the Road
When it comes to driving, the Land Cruiser feels less truck-like compared to its previous generation. It offers a smooth and comfortable ride with great low-end torque.
Its body-on-frame construction gives it a distinct advantage in off-road situations, where the frame absorbs the impact from rough terrain, ensuring a more isolated and comfortable experience for passengers.
The Defender, with its unibody construction and independent suspension, offers a more car-like handling experience. While it doesn’t feel as torquey in the low end, it shines at higher speeds and provides a more connected feel to the road, making it ideal for both on-road and off-road adventures.
Which One Should You Choose?
In summary, the comparison between the Defender and the Land Cruiser is quite exciting. The Defender offers a more premium feel, with its solid build quality, open interior, and stylish design elements. However, the Land Cruiser provides exceptional value, offering more features for a lower price, along with Toyota’s renowned resale value.
If you’re looking for a vehicle with more features at a better price point, the Land Cruiser is the way to go. But if you prefer a premium driving experience with a more refined interior, the Defender might be the better choice.
