2020 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2021 Honda HR-V

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover was a testament to luxury and ruggedness, a combination that had defined the brand since its inception. Originating from the rugged Series I off-roader, the Range Rover was introduced in 1969 as a luxury SUV built on robust 4x4 underpinnings. By 2020, the Range Rover had evolved into a vehicle with multiple variations, including the HSE, Autobiography, and SVAutobiography Dynamic trims, available in both Standard Wheelbase (SWB) and Long Wheelbase (LWB) configurations. Standard features included leather seating, heated front seats, tri-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof, while higher trims offered even more luxurious options like massaging seats and a rear-seat entertainment system.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda HR-V presented a softer, friendlier appearance compared to Honda's larger SUVs. Its styling was distinctive, with unique window lines and rear door handles integrated into the triangular point near the taillights. Most trims featured 17-inch alloy wheels, with the Sport model boasting matte-black 18-inch wheels and blacked-out trim. The interior was plain yet functional, with good material quality and fit. Higher trims like the EX and EX-L offered features such as push-button start, automatic climate control, and leather upholstery, making the HR-V a solid choice for those seeking practicality and comfort in a subcompact crossover.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover offered a diverse selection of powertrains, starting with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 355 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. The HSE trim featured a non-hybrid version of the same engine, delivering 395 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque. A turbodiesel V6 was also available, rated at 254 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. The P525 and Autobiography trims came with a supercharged 5.0-liter V8, generating 518 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque, while a plug-in hybrid powertrain offered 398 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque with a 19-mile electric range. The SV Autobiography Dynamic trim was the performance variant, with its V8 engine tuned to produce 557 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, providing a blend of power and efficiency. The Range Rover's electronic air suspension and automatic load leveling ensured a comfortable ride, while its Terrain Response System offered various drive modes for different conditions.

The 2021 Honda HR-V, on the other hand, was powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 141 horsepower and 127 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While all-wheel drive was available, front-wheel drive was standard. The HR-V's powertrain was considered underpowered for highway driving, especially compared to competitors like the Kia Seltos and Subaru Crosstrek. However, the HR-V's chassis provided a rewarding driving experience on twisty roads, living up to Honda's reputation for fun cars. Despite its limitations, the HR-V offered decent ride quality, though its all-wheel-drive system was not designed for off-road use.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover offered two wheelbase options: Long Wheelbase (LWB) and Standard Wheelbase (SWB). Both configurations provided standard seating for five, with the option for second-row captain’s chairs reducing capacity to four for enhanced comfort. The SWB version offered 70.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, while the LWB model provided 77.5 cubic feet. Despite its luxury status, the Range Rover's cargo space was less than some competitors. The vehicle featured a hands-free power liftgate with a unique two-piece configuration, facilitating easier loading and tailgating. Interior storage included a center-console compartment and decently sized door compartments and cupholders.

The 2021 Honda HR-V excelled in cargo space for its size, thanks to the "Magic Seat" 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat. With the seat folded, it offered 58.8 cubic feet of cargo space (57.6 for AWD models), and 24.3 cubic feet with the seat up (23.2 cubic feet with AWD). These figures surpassed many competitors, though the Kia Seltos and Toyota Corolla Cross offered more. The HR-V also provided ample passenger space, particularly in rear-seat legroom. While lacking clever interior storage solutions, the HR-V featured sensibly-designed controls, including large knobs for climate control and a standard tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel for easy adjustment.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover featured the InControl Touch Pro Duo system, consisting of two touchscreens. The top screen managed navigation, phone, stereo, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, while the lower screen controlled climate, seat settings, and Terrain Response. Integrated dials in the lower screen changed functions based on the menu, though the system had a learning curve and occasional lag issues. A fully digital instrument panel and optional head-up display added to the tech offerings.

The 2021 Honda HR-V's base LX trim included Bluetooth, a 5-inch display screen, and a four-speaker audio system. The Sport trim and higher offered a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while EX and EX-L models added SiriusXM satellite radio. The infotainment system was straightforward, with two USB ports conveniently located ahead of the shifter. However, the 7-inch touchscreen was smaller than some competitors, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not standard on all trims.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover came with standard safety features like low-speed automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional features included a 360-degree parking camera, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. While the Range Rover offered a solid list of safety features, some competitors provided more standard equipment.

The 2021 Honda HR-V received top "Good" scores in all IIHS crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. However, it received "Marginal" and "Poor" headlight ratings and an "Acceptable" LATCH rating. Honda Sensing safety features were available only on EX and EX-L trims, including forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The HR-V also featured Honda's LaneWatch, providing a camera view when the turn signal was activated.