2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Acura RDX, especially with the A-Spec Package, presented a sporty yet understated aesthetic. Its design changes were subtle, avoiding the overuse of blacked-out trim or aggressive performance cues, which conveyed a sense of sportiness without overpromising on performance. The RDX was not designed for off-roading, as evidenced by the absence of oversized skid plates or fender flares, making it clear that this SUV was intended for daily driving and road trips. The A-Spec trim, positioned in the middle of the RDX's hierarchy, offered a sporty interior with features like front sport seats, a sport steering wheel, and unique gauges, all contributing to a cabin that felt more like a sports car than a typical compact SUV.

In contrast, the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar exuded class and elegance, a hallmark of the Land Rover brand. Its design was a scaled-down version of the larger Range Rover, maintaining the iconic proportions and features such as the trapezoidal roof and trademark grille. The Velar's exterior was both blocky and streamlined, with details like flush door handles and bronze accents on the R-Dynamic trim enhancing its sophisticated look. The interior, though less opulent than previous models, still boasted high-quality materials and a polished black center stack, maintaining the luxurious feel expected from a Range Rover.

The 2021 Acura RDX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offered front-wheel drive as standard, with the option for Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. The SH-AWD system significantly improved handling by distributing up to 70% of the engine's output to the rear wheels, making the RDX enjoyable to drive. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose from various driving modes, enhancing the vehicle's responsiveness and handling. However, the A-Spec model lacked adaptive dampers, which could have improved its handling on uneven roads.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar shared its chassis with the Jaguar F-Pace, resulting in a lower center of gravity and improved handling compared to previous Land Rover models. The base engine was a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four, producing 247 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The Velar also offered an optional 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, available in two power outputs: 340 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, or 395 hp and 405 lb-ft. The mild-hybrid system helped reduce fuel consumption and emissions while delivering the performance expected from a luxury SUV.

The 2021 Acura RDX, despite being classified as a compact SUV, offered impressive passenger and cargo space. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with 12-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation in the A-Spec trim. However, the rear seats were less comfortable due to a lack of leg support and excessive recline angle. The RDX provided 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. While not class-leading, the cargo area was practical and included additional storage compartments.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar, while stylish, sacrificed interior space for its sleek design. The rear seats offered limited headroom, and visibility was restricted by thick B-pillars and small windows. Cargo space was modest, with 16 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 49 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Velar's design also introduced ergonomic challenges, such as the lack of a discrete parking brake control and a bulky shifter that obstructed access to other controls.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touchpad on the center console instead of a touchscreen. While this system aimed to reduce driver distraction, it required a learning curve and could still be distracting. The RDX offered smartphone integration, voice recognition, and a premium audio system, but the TTI remained a point of contention.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar's Pivi Pro infotainment system was a pleasant surprise, offering a simplified layout and logical arrangement of functions. The system included features like voice activation, air quality monitoring, and advanced navigation capabilities. The Velar also offered a range of standard and optional features, such as adaptive cruise control, a 12-speaker Meridian stereo, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2021 Acura RDX came equipped with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were only available with the Technology Package. The RDX received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, though it earned four stars in frontal-impact and rollover resistance tests.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar had not been rated by U.S. safety agencies, but it performed well in European NCAP tests. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, with optional 360-degree cameras and adaptive cruise control.