2020 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover was a testament to luxury and rugged capability, tracing its roots back to the original Series I off-roader. Over the years, it evolved into a symbol of opulence, maintaining its robust 4x4 underpinnings. By 2020, the Range Rover offered a variety of trims, including the HSE, Autobiography, and SVAutobiography Dynamic, each available in Standard Wheelbase (SWB) and Long Wheelbase (LWB) configurations. Standard features included leather seating, a panoramic sunroof, and the InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system. The Range Rover's interior was a blend of luxury and technology, with options like heated rear seats and a 19-speaker Meridian audio system enhancing the driving experience.

In contrast, the 2021 Hyundai Palisade, particularly in its Calligraphy trim, stood out with its distinctive grille, unique 20-inch wheels, and upgraded interior detailing. The Palisade's design was polarizing, but it undeniably exuded a sense of luxury beyond its price point. Inside, the Calligraphy trim offered a plush experience with quilted Nappa leather and a simulated suede headliner. The Palisade's interior was spacious and well-appointed, with features like heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a sophisticated color scheme. The Palisade's cabin was a testament to Hyundai's commitment to providing a premium experience in a midsize SUV.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover offered a diverse range of powertrains, starting with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 355 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. The HSE trim featured a more powerful version of the same engine, delivering 395 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque. A turbodiesel V6 was also available, offering 254 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, the P525 and Autobiography trims came with a supercharged 5.0-liter V8, generating 518 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque. The SV Autobiography Dynamic trim took performance to the next level with a 557 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque V8 engine. All engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, ensuring a blend of power and off-road capability.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade was equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with an optional all-wheel-drive system available. The Palisade offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, and Sport, with AWD models adding a Snow mode and a Lock function for improved traction. The Palisade's suspension provided excellent body-motion control, making it enjoyable to drive without sacrificing comfort. It was capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds, and its fuel economy was competitive, with an EPA rating of 21 mpg in combined driving.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover offered two wheelbase options, with the SWB providing 70.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and the LWB offering 77.5 cubic feet. Both configurations had 34.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up. The Range Rover's interior was luxurious, with standard seating for five and the option for second-row captain’s chairs, reducing seating to four but enhancing comfort. The hands-free power liftgate and two-piece configuration made loading cargo easier, while the center-console compartment and door storage provided additional space for smaller items.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior space and accessibility, offering a comfortable and spacious cabin. The Calligraphy trim featured eight-way power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row captain’s chairs provided ample legroom and could slide to accommodate passengers and cargo. The third-row seat was more accommodating than most in its class, and the Palisade offered 18 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 86.4 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience, and the interior storage was generous, with a storage tray under the center console.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover featured the InControl Touch Pro Duo system, consisting of two touchscreens. The top screen managed navigation, phone, and stereo functions, while the lower screen controlled climate settings and Terrain Response modes. The system's integrated dials changed functions based on the selected menu, offering a unique user experience. While the system had a learning curve and occasional lag issues, it was complemented by a fully digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems, with the Calligraphy trim featuring a 10.25-inch touchscreen display. The system supported Bluetooth pairing for two smartphones, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. While the larger screen required a wired connection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Palisade included wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, and a Quiet Mode. A head-up display and surround-view camera system were also available, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover came with standard safety features like low-speed automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-departure warning. 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 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and multiple lane-keeping systems as standard. The Limited and Calligraphy trims featured an ultrasonic rear occupant alert system and a Blind View Monitor. Highway Drive Assist was a standout feature, offering sophisticated adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. The Palisade earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, providing peace of mind for families.