2020 Lexus RX vs 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Velar

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Velar was a stylish addition to the Range Rover family, positioned between the compact Evoque and the larger Range Rover. Its design was neither too sleek nor too boxy, featuring a low roof and steeply-raked windshield that gave it a unique profile. The Velar maintained its SUV identity with a broad front end and short overhangs, enhancing its off-road capabilities. The SVAutobiography Dynamic Edition added sportier elements like larger air intakes and quad exhaust tips, while the interior boasted high-quality leather and metal trim, creating a cockpit-like feel.

In contrast, the 2020 Lexus RX received a refresh that enhanced its already stylish appearance. The exterior featured standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and a redesigned grille, with new paint options like Moonbeam Beige Metallic and Nori Green Pearl. The RX's cabin was well-appointed, offering various interior colors and materials, including wood and satin-brushed aluminum trim. The F Sport package added unique styling elements and performance-focused features, while the interior remained practical and comfortable, suitable for family use.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Velar introduced a V8 engine in the SVAutobiography Dynamic Edition, delivering 550 horsepower and 502 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, allowed the Velar to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds, with a top speed of 177 mph. Despite its power, the Velar's performance was not as sharp as some competitors, and its size made it less agile on tight roads. The Velar's off-road capabilities were supported by features like the Terrain Response system and All-Terrain Progress Control, although it lacked a low range transfer case.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, with a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX 450h hybrid variant combined the V6 with an electric motor, achieving 308 horsepower. The RX was not a performance vehicle, taking 7.9 seconds to reach 60 mph, but it offered a comfortable and smooth driving experience. The RX 350 achieved an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined, while the RX 450h excelled in fuel efficiency with 30 mpg combined. The F Sport models added adaptive variable suspension and sportier features, enhancing agility.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Velar was larger than small luxury SUVs but smaller than midsize counterparts, resulting in a unique size category. Its avant-garde styling limited interior space, with less headroom and a claustrophobic feel. Cargo space was competitive, with 15.7 cubic feet with the rear seats in place and 48.9 cubic feet with them folded. The Velar's towing capacity was respectable, with the SVAutobiography Dynamic Edition and V6 models capable of towing 5,511 pounds.

The 2020 Lexus RX offered a spacious cabin in its two-row configuration, comfortably seating four adults. The three-row RX-L was less accommodating, with a cramped third row suitable for small children. The RX's cargo area was smaller than competitors, with a high load floor compromising space. The RX 350L and 450hL had even less cargo space compared to rivals like the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on RX 350 and 450h models, and standard on RX-L versions.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Velar featured the InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system with dual 10.0-inch touchscreens, a WiFi hotspot, Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The upper screen handled smartphone and media functions, while the lower screen managed vehicle settings and climate control. The system had high-quality graphics but suffered from slow responses. Additional tech included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, head-up display, and capacitive steering-wheel controls.

The 2020 Lexus RX improved its infotainment system by moving the display closer to the driver. The 12.3-inch touchscreen was difficult to navigate, but Apple CarPlay and other integrations like Amazon Alexa and Android Auto provided alternatives. The RX featured a touchpad system with improved responsiveness and six USB ports. The standard 12-speaker audio system was adequate, with an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson system available.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Velar lacked safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, but it offered standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and parking aids. Adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring were available as options. The Velar's driver-assist tech was less sophisticated compared to competitors, with limited lane-keeping capabilities.

The 2020 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. The RX also featured daytime bicyclist detection, low-light pedestrian detection, road-sign assist, and lane-tracing assist. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models. Lexus Enform Safety Connect and Service Connect subscriptions were included, though connectivity issues were noted during testing.