2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2020 Land Rover Range Rover

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 evolved into a luxury SUV with stout 4x4 underpinnings, appealing to wealthy British landowners. By 2012, the current-generation Range Rover was introduced, offering various trims like HSE, Autobiography, and SVAutobiography Dynamic, available in both Standard Wheelbase (SWB) and Long Wheelbase (LWB) configurations. Standard features included leather seating, a panoramic sunroof, and the InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system, while higher trims added more luxurious options like massaging seats and rear-seat entertainment systems.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited, though fully loaded, maintained a more understated appearance, akin to a rental car. Despite its high MSRP, it lacked the larger wheels and Adventure trim level found in non-hybrid versions. The RAV4 Hybrid's interior was stylish and practical, with a mix of quality materials and some hard plastics. It offered decent rear-seat legroom and a functional dashboard layout, though a rattle from the license plate was noted. The RAV4 Hybrid was practical and comfortable, with features like heated and ventilated front seats and a spacious cargo area.

The 2020 Range Rover offered a diverse range of powertrains, starting with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 355 horsepower and 365 lb-ft 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 boasted a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 with 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 topped the lineup with a 557 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque V8. 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 excelled in comfort and off-road capability, with an electronic air suspension and Terrain Response System.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with front and rear electric motors, generating 219 horsepower. The hybrid system provided standard all-wheel drive and offered driving modes like Eco, Normal, Sport, Trail, and EV. The RAV4 Hybrid weighed between 3,690 and 3,780 pounds, with instant electric-motor torque making it feel lively. It achieved an EPA-estimated 40 mpg in combined driving, with a CVT that operated smoothly. The RAV4 Hybrid's suspension design and Active Cornering Assist system contributed to favorable driving dynamics, though its tires lacked grip. It handled daily driving well, with a comfortable ride and decent off-road capability.

The 2020 Range Rover offered two wheelbase options, with standard seating for five or four with optional second-row captain’s chairs. The SWB version provided 70.9 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded, while the LWB model offered 77.5 cubic feet. The Range Rover featured a hands-free power liftgate with a two-piece configuration, enhancing cargo loading. The interior included a center-console compartment and decently sized door compartments.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid provided comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated and ventilated front cushions, and a heated steering wheel. Rear-seat legroom was decent, with reclining backrests and air conditioning vents. The dashboard layout was intuitive, with oversized climate control knobs and an easy-to-use infotainment system. The RAV4 Hybrid offered 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with rear seats folded.

The 2020 Range Rover featured the InControl Touch Pro Duo system with two touchscreens, controlling navigation, phone, stereo, and climate settings. The system had a learning curve and occasional lag issues, but a volume knob was retained. A fully digital instrument panel and optional head-up display were also available.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered infotainment systems with 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreens, supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The top-tier system included an 11-speaker JBL audio system, dynamic navigation, and voice recognition. The 8-inch display was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and stereo knobs. Camera-based technology included a 360-degree camera system and rearview camera mirror.

The 2020 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 had a solid list of safety features, some were optional rather than standard.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keep assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning were standard on most trims, with rear automatic braking available on the Hybrid Limited. The RAV4 Hybrid earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top marks from the IIHS, except for its headlights.