2021 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport PHEV was designed with subtlety in mind, maintaining the classic Range Rover aesthetic without any overt changes to its styling. The charging port was cleverly integrated into the grille, making it nearly invisible unless pointed out. This approach was appreciated by those who valued design continuity, as it avoided unnecessary embellishments that could detract from the vehicle's appeal. The model started at $79,000, with the test vehicle priced at $93,200 due to additional options like Firenze Red paint and 21-inch aluminum wheels, which enhanced its visual presence. Inside, the cabin was adorned with high-quality materials, reflecting the vehicle's premium price tag.

In contrast, the 2021 Land Rover Range Rover embraced its luxurious evolution from a utilitarian vehicle to a high-end SUV. Starting at $92,000, the model offered a wide range of powertrains and personalization options, with the potential to reach $250,000 for a fully loaded long-wheelbase version. The test vehicle, priced at $106,715, featured the HSE Westminster special-edition trim, showcasing a timeless design with hallmark cues like blacked-out pillars and clean lines. Inside, the cabin exuded luxury with an Ivory-color interior and mid-century modern ambiance, though the InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system was less intuitive than newer models.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport PHEV combined a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with a 141-hp electric motor, producing a total of 398 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque. Despite Land Rover's claim of a 31-mile all-electric range, the test vehicle struggled to maintain EV mode, possibly due to climate control use or hilly terrain. The SUV averaged 25.5 mpg over a 60-mile loop, outperforming previous models but potentially falling short of the new mild-hybrid powertrain's efficiency. The Range Rover Sport PHEV offered quick acceleration and a comfortable ride, with adaptive air suspension and various driving modes enhancing its athleticism. However, the regenerative brakes were grabby, and the EV mode's recharging process was frustratingly slow.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered multiple powertrain options, including a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine with 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. The SUV's 4WD system and Terrain Response 2 traction control ensured off-road capability, though the test vehicle's adventures were limited to a well-traveled trail. The Range Rover provided a smooth, quiet ride with an adaptive air suspension, though its steering was slow and syrupy. The SUV averaged 18.5 mpg on the evaluation loop, slightly below the EPA's 20 mpg estimate. While not ideal for spirited driving, the Range Rover excelled at a relaxed pace, offering a luxurious driving experience.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport PHEV's cargo space was compromised by the battery's placement, reducing the standard 27.5-cubic-foot area and risking items falling out when the tailgate was opened. The SUV comfortably seated five, with excellent front-seat comfort and a panoramic glass roof brightening the interior. However, practical storage was limited, and the optional refrigerated center console bin further reduced space. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed a tall riding position and 4-zone climate control, though entry and exit could be challenging without optional side steps.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured an air suspension with a kneel mode for easier access, though shorter passengers still struggled. The front seats were decadently comfortable, but the second row lacked thigh support and adjustability, resulting in a slouched seating position. Despite this, rear-seat amenities included quad-zone climate control and a button to control the Meridian sound system. Storage space was limited, with dual glove compartments compensating for a small center-console bin. The cargo area offered 25 cubic feet, expandable to 59.8 cubic feet, with a suspension kneel function aiding loading.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport's InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system was complex and occasionally frustrating, even for tech-savvy users. Despite spending time setting up the system, accessing features could be challenging, with unexpected behavior and delayed reactions. The lack of haptic feedback from the touchscreen added to the difficulty, though primary stereo and climate functions were easily accessible. The SUV's technology was best suited for those comfortable with touchscreens and voice commands, as technophobes might find it overwhelming.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover's digital instrumentation and infotainment were spread across three displays, offering numerous customization options. While the InControl Touch Pro Duo system was manageable for those familiar with smartphones and tablets, it was not entirely intuitive, leading to occasional confusion. The dual 10-inch touchscreens were distracting while driving, and the head-up display was ineffective with polarized sunglasses. Setting up the system at home was recommended, with touch-sensing steering wheel controls and voice assistants aiding usability. The waterproof Activity Key wristband and iGuide smartphone app were notable technology features.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport included numerous advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), though the technology could be distracting. The optional Driver Assist Package's steering-assist system was aggressive, causing head-toss and discomfort. The lane-keeping assist system was also abrupt, leading to its deactivation. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the SUV's nearly 5,500-pound weight provided a sense of security in collisions.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover came standard with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. Optional packages added features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and semi-autonomous parking. The HSE Westminster Edition included the Drive Pro and Park packages, with the technology generally performing well. However, the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond, particularly when traffic cleared. Overall, the safety features were effective and accurate, though the Driver Assist Pack's advanced technology was not assessed.