2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Defender

The Defender has received near universal acclaim since it returned to the North American market in time for the 2020 model year.  The Defender is here and it is ready to challenge for the title of premier off-road SUV.  So that means measuring up against the Jeep Wrangler.  The Jeep Wrangler had the off-road SUV space to itself in the US automarket.  But with the return of the Defender, Jeep has some serious competition.  In fact the 2021 Defender announced its return by being named Motor Trend's SUV of the Year.

Jeep Wrangler and Defender Price Comparison

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler's starting MSRP is $28,295.  The Defender has a starting MSRP of $47,700.  That is a large gap in entry level pricing between the two icons.  But in order to begin to replicate the capability, features and technology in a starting level Defender you would probably need to consider a Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, which is near the top level of the Jeep Wrangler trims and has a starting MSRP of $38,940.  Not an inconsiderable difference in starting price, but when driving a Defender it is easy to see and feel where the money went.

Defender and Jeep Wrangler Engine Specs

The Defender and Wrangler both have very capable standard engines.  The Defender deploys a 2.0L turbocharged inline four that produces 296 HP and the Wrangler a 3.6 Liter V6 for 285 HP.  Jeep is now offering a V8 option and Defender offers multiple engine options as well including a V8.  Both V8 options are tremendous.  With Jeep offering the 470 HP 6.4L Hemi V-8 and Defender a 5.0L supercharged V-8 capable of producing 518 HP.

On Road Performance

The Jeep Wrangler has a well earned reputation as an off-road performer.  But it has an equally well earned reputation for a stiff and noisy ride.  Some of that is due to the Wrangler still utilizing a body on frame construction which helps provide some of its off-road prowess but leads to an uncomfortable and bumpy ride for everyday driving.  The Defender employs a unibody construction that allows for superior everyday handling and comfort.  In fact it was observed, "simply put, I've never driven a serious off-roader that was this capable on-pavement." - Christian Seabaugh Motortrend

Off-Road Performance and Details

The Jeep Wrangler has set a high standard for off-road SUV performance.  But its off-roading performance is matched by the Defender and in some ways surpassed.  The Jeep Wrangler has the advantage in maximum approach angle at 43.9 degrees to 38 degrees for the Defender, but the Defender offers superior breakover at 28.0 to 22.6 for the Wrangler and a better departure angle of 40.0 degrees to 37.0 for the Wrangler.  So when it comes to serious off-roading the Wrangler may offer a superior ability to head up a steep obstacle but the Defender is less likely to leave you scraping the bottom of your new SUV at the top or on your way down.

The unibody construction of the Defender had its skeptics.  But with the inclusion of innovative technology and design Range Rover, Defender, and Discovery was able to provide very competitive off-road capability without having to sacrifice performance and luxury.  The optional adjustable air shocks are one of the many innovative features that the Defender employs to bridge the gap between on-road comfort and off-road brawn.  The air shocks allow the Defender a maximum wading depth of 35.4 inches versus only 30 inches for the Wrangler.

Hauling and Towing

Towing capacity may not be the top priority for your off-road SUV, but there is a significant gap in the hauling capabilities of the Jeep Wrangler and the Defender.  The 4-door Wrangler offers a respectable 3500 pound towing capacity, but if you switch to the 2-door Wrangler that drops to 2000 pounds, hardly more than a crossover.  The Defender is capable of towing over 8000 pounds in either the 90 or 110 body style.  So if you are heading to your off-road destination and want to be able to tow a camper without a separate truck the Defender offers a clear advantage.

Order Your Defender At Hennessy Land Rover Gwinnett

Customize your Defender 90 or 110 to your exact specifications by ordering yours from Hennessy Land Rover Gwinnett.  Our knowledgeable sales professionals can walk you through the steps to getting the exact Defender that you want.  If you would like more information about how to order a new Defender you fill out this form or call us at 888-355-0861.