2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport PHEV maintained a seamless design, indistinguishable from its non-hybrid counterparts, save for a discreet “P400e” badge. The charging port was cleverly integrated into the grille, preserving the SUV's aesthetic appeal. This approach underscored Land Rover's understanding of design as a crucial factor in vehicle selection, avoiding unnecessary styling changes that could detract from the vehicle's allure. The test model, priced at $93,200 with options, boasted a striking Firenze Red paint, black roof, and 21-inch aluminum wheels, enhancing its inherent good looks. Inside, the cabin was adorned with high-quality materials, reflecting the vehicle's premium price tag.

The 2021 Lexus NX carried forward the brand's signature design elements, with sharp lines and a sculpted exterior reminiscent of its Lexus siblings. The NX 300 and 300 F Sport models offered a sporty appearance, with features like a honeycomb grille and 18-inch F Sport wheels. Inside, the NX provided a comfortable and upscale environment, with quilted NuLuxe sport seats and available leather and wood trim. The interior was well-crafted, though the gauge cluster design felt dated compared to newer models. Despite some engine noise, the cabin remained quiet, typical of Lexus vehicles. The NX's interior space was adequate, with a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, though cargo capacity was limited compared to competitors.

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 terrain. The SUV averaged 25.5 mpg over a 60-mile loop, a modest improvement over previous models. The Range Rover Sport PHEV offered quick acceleration and a comfortable ride, with adaptive air suspension and various driving modes enhancing its performance. However, the regenerative brakes were grabby, and the SUV's off-roading capabilities remained intact, with a 4WD system and multiple traction settings.

The 2021 Lexus NX 300 and 300 F Sport were powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The SUV accelerated from zero to 60 mph in about seven seconds, with a relatively quiet ride despite some powertrain noise. The NX offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available. Fuel economy was decent, with the FWD model achieving 25 mpg combined. The NX featured an adaptive-suspension system, providing a smooth and comfortable driving experience. The steering was numb, but the vehicle remained easy to maneuver. The NX's drive modes influenced throttle response and power-steering assist, with a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport PHEV's cargo space was limited due to the battery placement, reducing the standard 27.5-cubic-foot area. The SUV comfortably seated five, with excellent front-seat comfort and a tall riding position for rear passengers. The test vehicle included 4-zone automatic climate control and a panoramic glass roof, enhancing the interior experience. However, practical storage was limited, especially with the optional refrigerated center console bin.

The 2021 Lexus NX offered a well-styled and comfortable interior, with ample room for front-seat occupants and decent legroom for rear passengers. The SUV featured a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, but cargo space was limited to 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The NX's cabin was quiet, with minimal road and wind noise. A power liftgate with kick sensor technology was available, along with power-folding rear seats.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport's InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system was complex and occasionally frustrating, with unexpected behavior and delayed reactions. Despite the challenges, the system provided access to primary stereo and climate functions while maintaining a modern interior aesthetic. However, technophobes might find the technology overwhelming.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.3-inch option available in the Navigation package. The infotainment system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the Lexus system was less user-friendly. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and a WiFi hot spot. The NX was compatible with the Lexus Enform Remote mobile app, offering remote access to various vehicle functions. The Navigation package added Lexus Enform Destination Assist and a Mark Levinson 14-speaker audio system on higher trims.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Sport came equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems, though the technology could be distracting. The SUV's steering-assist system and lane-keeping assist were aggressive, leading to head-toss on uneven pavement. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the vehicle's weight provided a sense of security in collisions.

The 2021 Lexus NX included Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 as standard, with features like lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The SUV received top "Good" scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Lexus Enform Safety Connect offered additional safety services, and the NX came with a comprehensive warranty package.