The mid-size luxury category of 2023 is difficult to enter. Many automakers have been building reliable and luxurious for the masses for decades. However, the 2023 Defender is consistently at the bottom of the league table and has a higher cost. Is the Defender the Worst Midsize Luxury SUV of 2023?
What is the worst midsize luxury SUV of 2023?
Each publication will have its own rating system, but 2023 seems to be lagging behind in each one. ranked it near last in the 2023 midsize luxury SUV category, noting that it fell short on cargo space and fuel economy. While Land Rover is offering the Defender in 18 (yes, 18) trim levels for 2023, each has its drawbacks. MSRP ranges from $68,000 for the S to $118,400 for the V8 Carpathian Edition.
it didn’t put the Land Rover Defender in last place for 2023, but it didn’t even come close to the top. It still has all the off-road capabilities drivers might expect from the brand, but it’s still outperformed by other SUVs in the segment. Combined fuel economy is between 16 and 20 mpg, one of the worst in the midsize luxury SUV category.
Beyond that, the Defender has received praise for its off-road capabilities and customization from the factory. Those customizations and higher trim levels quickly ramp up in price, taking the Land Rover up to $90,000 without much effort. Land Rover says it has streamlined the range to make ordering easier, but there are still 18 finishes and countless ways to build the SUV.
Compared to off-road competition, like the Ford Bronco and , that $90.00 would go much further. However, none of these options offer the luxury offered by the Defender.
Reliability is more important than ever
it also put the Defender on its list of worst midsize luxury SUVs of 2023, but that’s not uncommon. Almost all of the Land Rover lineup is on a Consumer Reports worst SUV list due to lack of reliability and consumer satisfaction.
Priced at over $70,000, it has too many mixed reviews to be a good choice for all buyers. Those looking for an off-roader with plenty of seating might find enough positives about the 2023 Land Rover Defender to overlook the rest. Otherwise, similar vehicles offer more luxury for less.
