Land Rover vs. Range Rover: Understanding the Difference
When shopping for a luxury SUV, it's important to understand the distinction between Land Rover and Range Rover. Land Rover is the brand offering rugged, versatile models like the Defender, Discovery, and Range Rover Velar, all designed for durability and off-road capability. Range Rover, on the other hand, is a luxury sub-brand known for its premium SUVs, including the Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, and Range Rover Evoque, focusing on comfort, high-end finishes, and superior on-road performance.
Both brands offer exceptional vehicles, but the difference lies in their approach to luxury, performance, and off-road capability. Let's break it down to help you make the right choice.
Compare the Land Rover vs Range Rover
- 20 more horsepower for the Range Rover, providing a more powerful driving experience, especially for on-road performance.
- 4,400 lbs higher towing capacity for the Defender and Discovery compared to the Range Rover, making them the better option for heavy-duty towing needs.
- 7.1 inches advantage in ground clearance for the Defender, perfect for navigating tough terrains and off-road adventures with ease.
- 10.5 cubic feet more cargo space in the Land Rover Discovery when the second row is folded, offering more room for gear and luggage on long trips.
- Passenger Space: The Range Rover offers more luxury-focused interior features, including 2.5” more front shoulder room and 3” more rear legroom, providing an even more spacious and refined cabin experience for passengers.
Quick Specs
| Specification | Land Rover Defender | Land Rover Discovery | Range Rover |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $54,000 | $57,000 | $107,900 |
| Owner Ratings | 4.7/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.8/5 |
| Fuel Efficiency/Range | 17 MPG City 22 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City 23 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City 24 MPG Hwy |
| Basic Warranty | 4 yr/50k mi | 4 yr/50k mi | 4 yr/50k mi |
Gallery
Land Rover
Defender
Land Rover
Discovery
Range Rover
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Detailed Feature Breakdown
Power / Performance
The 2025 Land Rover Defender, Discovery, and Range Rover all excel in performance, but they each focus on different areas. The Defender is known for extreme off-road capability, the Discovery combines versatility with a balance of on-road and off-road performance, and the Range Rover is tailored more towards luxury with power.
The Defender is built for the toughest terrains with features like Terrain Response and high ground clearance. The Discovery offers a smoother on-road experience but still features advanced off-road systems. The 2025 Range Rover blends high-end luxury with powerful engines, making it a great all-around choice.
"The 2025 Range Rover sets the standard in luxury performance," according to Car and Driver (2025). Meanwhile, the Defender and Discovery both cater to those looking for more utility and adventure.
| Feature | Land Rover Defender | Land Rover Discovery | Range Rover |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Specs | 2.0L I4 Turbo (296 hp), 3.0L I6 Turbo (395 hp) | 2.0L I4 Turbo (246 hp), 3.0L I6 Turbo (355 hp) | 3.0L I6 Turbo (395 hp), 5.0L V8 Supercharged (523 hp) |
| Transmission Types | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD, RWD (optional) |
| Ride Quality | Rugged, off-road focused | Balanced comfort and off-road | Luxurious, smooth on-road |
| Towing Capacity | 8,201 lbs | 8,201 lbs | 7,716 lbs |
*All information is dependent on the trim level of models.
EV Information
| Feature | Land Rover Defender (PHEV) | Land Rover Discovery (PHEV) | Range Rover (PHEV) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Specs | 2.0L I4 Hybrid (398 hp) | 2.0L I4 Hybrid (398 hp) | 3.0L I6 Hybrid (434 hp) |
| Transmission Types | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Ride Quality | Quiet, smooth, eco-focused | Balanced with eco-focus | Quiet and refined, efficient |
| Electric Range | 31 miles (estimated) | 31 miles (estimated) | 48 miles (estimated) |
Exterior / Styling
| Feature | Land Rover Defender | Land Rover Discovery | Range Rover |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design Features | Boxy, rugged, high clearance | Sleek, aerodynamic, modern | Elegant, streamlined, refined |
| Color Options | Santorini Black, Eiger Grey, Fuji White | Narvik Black, Pangea Green, Indus Silver | Santorini Black, Aruba, Carpathian Grey |
| Wheel Types | 18-inch, 20-inch alloys | 19-inch, 21-inch alloys | 21-inch, 22-inch alloys |
Interior and Technology
The 2025 Land Rover Defender is rugged and utilitarian, designed for extreme adventures. While it offers durable materials, it doesn’t sacrifice comfort entirely, featuring leather seats and high-end tech options.
The Land Rover Discovery, on the other hand, is known for its spacious interior, offering seating for up to seven passengers. Its layout focuses on versatility, with flexible seating and ample storage, making it perfect for families or those who need more space.
The Range Rover, as always, takes the luxury crown with premium materials, including quilted leather, ambient lighting, and advanced technology, providing a truly plush experience. It's the best choice for those looking for an elegant and refined ride.
"Range Rover is designed for those who expect the best in luxury," said Kelly Blue Book (2025).
| Feature | Land Rover Defender | Land Rover Discovery | Range Rover |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | Pivi Pro (10-inch touchscreen) | Pivi Pro (11.4-inch touchscreen) | Touch Pro Duo (13.1-inch) |
| Connectivity Options | Apple CarPlay, Android Auto | Apple CarPlay, Android Auto | Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi hotspot |
| Seating Materials | Leather, durable fabrics | Leather, suedecloth | Quilted leather, premium finishes |
| Comfort Features | Heated seats, optional air suspension | Heated/cooled seats, ambient lighting | Heated/cooled seats, massage function, ambient lighting |
Safety and Driver Assistance
All three models—Defender, Discovery, and Range Rover—are equipped with the latest safety features and technology. The Defender is built with rugged terrain in mind, with a robust suite of safety features like Hill Descent Control. The Discovery offers a balanced package of safety and tech, making it perfect for families with advanced driver assistance features.
The Range Rover leads in luxury tech, with dual-touchscreens and an exceptional driver assistance suite. Both the Defender and Discovery feature intuitive infotainment systems and plenty of safety options, though the Range Rover includes more premium options as standard.
"The 2025 Range Rover brings the future of safety and tech to the road," said AutoNation (2025).
| Feature | Land Rover Defender | Land Rover Discovery | Range Rover |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Safety Features | 6 airbags, ABS, traction control | 6 airbags, ABS, traction control | 6 airbags, ABS, traction control |
| Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems | Adaptive Cruise, Lane-keep Assist | Adaptive Cruise, Lane-keep Assist | Adaptive Cruise, Lane-keep Assist, Park Assist |
| Driver Assistance Features | 360-degree cameras, Collision Mitigation | 360-degree cameras, Lane Departure Warning | 360-degree cameras, Adaptive Cruise, Blind Spot Assist |
Warranty Information
| Feature | Land Rover Defender | Land Rover Discovery | Range Rover |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles | 4 years / 50,000 miles | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles | 5 years / 60,000 miles | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Corrosion Warranty | 6 years / 100,000 miles | 6 years / 100,000 miles | 6 years / 100,000 miles |
| Maintenance Interval | 12 months / 10,000 miles | 12 months / 10,000 miles | 12 months / 10,000 miles |
| Consumer Feedback | Highly rated for off-road ability | Known for family-friendly features | Praised for luxury and refinement |
*See dealer for specific details
Costs of Ownership
| Feature | Land Rover Defender | Land Rover Discovery | Range Rover |
|---|---|---|---|
| Insurance Estimates | $1,500 - $2,200 annually | $1,400 - $2,100 annually | $2,000 - $3,000 annually |
| Fuel Costs | Approx. $1,600/year (gas) | Approx. $1,500/year (gas) | Approx. $1,800/year (gas) |
| Depreciation | Retains 60% of value in 5 years | Retains 58% of value in 5 years | Retains 55% of value in 5 years |
| Resale Values | Strong resale value | Strong resale value | Excellent resale value |
| Tax Incentives | No current federal tax credit | No current federal tax credit | No current federal tax credit |
*See dealer for specific details
Conclusion and Recommendations: Which Vehicle is Best for Your Lifestyle?
Choosing between the Defender, Discovery, and Range Rover comes down to what you value most in a luxury SUV. The Defender is perfect for adventurers who need rugged off-road capabilities. The Discovery is best for those needing a versatile, spacious vehicle for both family and adventure. The Range Rover is ideal for those who want the ultimate in luxury and comfort, without sacrificing performance.
- Off-Road Enthusiasts: The Defender is built to conquer rugged terrains with exceptional off-road capabilities, ideal for those who love adventure.
- Family-Oriented Drivers: The Discovery offers spacious seating for up to seven passengers, with flexible interiors and practical tech, making it perfect for large families.
- Luxury Seekers: Range Rover is the epitome of luxury with its high-end finishes, refined interior, and advanced technology, perfect for those seeking ultimate comfort.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Range Rover leads with its cutting-edge dual-touchscreen system, but both the Defender and Discovery come with high-tech infotainment and safety features.
- On-Road Performance: The Range Rover provides superior on-road comfort with a smooth, quiet ride. The Discovery balances performance and comfort, while the Defender excels more off-road.
- Towing Capacity: The Defender and Discovery both offer excellent towing capacity, ideal for those who need to pull trailers, boats, or other heavy loads.
Find Your New Land Rover or Range Rover at Land Rover Buckhead Today
Whether you're drawn to the versatility of the Land Rover Defender, the spacious practicality of the Discovery, or the luxurious performance of the Range Rover, all three vehicles are sure to meet your highest standards. Visit Land Rover Buckhead today to test drive your next luxury SUV.
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FAQ: Land Rover vs Range Rover vs Land Rover Discovery
1. What’s the difference between Land Rover and Range Rover?
Land Rover is the parent brand offering rugged vehicles like the Defender and Discovery. Range Rover is a luxury sub-brand offering high-end SUVs like the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport, focusing on refinement and premium features.
2. Is Land Rover or Range Rover better for off-roading?
The Land Rover Defender is best suited for extreme off-roading, with unmatched durability. The Discovery also offers impressive off-road capability, while the Range Rover is more focused on luxury but still has strong off-road features.
3. Is the Range Rover worth the extra cost?
Yes, if you value luxury, technology, and performance. The Range Rover provides exceptional comfort, high-end materials, and advanced tech, justifying its higher price tag.
4. Which Land Rover is better for families?
The Land Rover Discovery is ideal for families, with its spacious interior and seating for up to seven passengers. It provides the perfect combination of comfort, safety, and practicality.
5. Do Land Rover vehicles offer hybrid options?
Yes, both the Defender and Range Rover offer hybrid variants. The Discovery offers mild hybrid options as well, making it a more fuel-efficient choice.
6. Which is more fuel-efficient, the Defender, Discovery, or Range Rover?
The Range Rover is the most fuel-efficient with up to 24 mpg on the highway, followed by the Discovery with 23 mpg, and the Defender with 22 mpg.