2025 Defender 130 vs. Cadillac Escalade vs Lincoln Navigator vs INFINITI QX80

The Defender name has remained an instantly recognizable icon among adventurous off-road enthusiasts for decades. With the arrival of the dynamic three-row Defender 130, shoppers searching for the ultimate full-size luxury SUV now have an exciting alternative to the uninspiring vehicles that crowd this segment. To help showcase the strengths and advantages of choosing the Defender 130, our team at Land Rover Easton has created this in-depth comparison. You’ll see exactly how the Defender 130 compares to some of its biggest rivals including the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, and INFINITI QX80. Let’s get started!

Defender 130 vs Cadillac Escalade

The first vehicle to go up against the Defender 130 is the Cadillac Escalade. Right off the bat, choosing the Defender 130 means that you’ll enjoy a significant price advantage that totals over $10,000. Even when the base trim is selected, Escalade shoppers will have no choice but to hand over extra cash in order to get the proven capability of four-wheel drive, a feature included as standard on the Defender 130. Although both offer several engine choices, the Defender 130 builds on its lead when you compare fuel economy figures. Even more impressive, it offers a standard towing capacity that’s higher than the Escalade as well. Performance and value are two signature characteristics of the Defender 130 family.

True to its legacy, the Defender 130 is also the clear favorite in terms of off-road capability as well. As an example, the Escalade cannot come close to matching the impressive ground clearance of the Defender 130. Its standard adaptive suspension offers enhanced comfort both on and off paved road surfaces. At Cadillac, this feature will still require you to shell out additional cash. Last but not least, the Defender 130 also stands out with its standard grained leather upholstery and a stunning panoramic sunroof that stretches across the first two rows of seating.

Defender 130 vs Lincoln Navigator

Continuing down the list of competitors, we’ll now examine how the Defender 130 measures up against the Lincoln Navigator. Here, we’re comparing a Defender 130 S P400 with the equivalent base model Navigator with a significantly higher starting price. Lincoln shoppers will be disappointed to learn that their dollar doesn’t go nearly as far on the Navigator as it does on the Defender 130. To start, Lincoln buyers will have to fork over thousands of dollars to get the four-wheel drive system included as standard from Land Rover. When it comes to off-road capabilities, Land Rover is the clear choice compared to Lincoln thanks to far superior approach, departure, and ramp breakover angles required for tackling tricky terrain. The standard Meridian Surround System of the Defender 130 provides a better listening experience thanks to its greater number of speakers. It’s not difficult to see why more drivers are choosing Land Rover over Lincoln after comparing the Defender 130 and Navigator.

Defender 130 vs INFINITI QX80

Our final head-to-head matchup involves the Defender 130 going up against the INFINITI QX80.
Similar to the prior competitors, the INFINITI QX80 starts with a higher price tag when using base trims. However, you’ll still have to spend several thousand dollars extra to get four-wheel drive on the QX80 while Land Rover includes this system as standard on the entire Defender 130 model lineup. Greater ground clearance makes the Defender 130 the better option for conquering rough terrain. Both on and off the road, the Adaptive Dynamics suspension of the Defender 130 delivers comfort by absorbing imperfections in the road surface.

Continuing to outperform INFINITI, the Defender 130 has the edge in terms of fuel economy to help you get the most out of every tank of fuel. Uniquely important when you head to the trails, a total of 6 12-volt DC power outlets help to keep all of your devices charged up for the journey inside of the Defender 130. Other premium amenities found inside the cabin include more adjustability for the front seats and greater headroom across the first two rows of seating. Both inside and out, the INFINITI QX80 is simply no match for the Land Rover Defender 130.