2021 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2021 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban presented a bold and somewhat polarizing front-end design, borrowing elements from the Camaro's design language. This approach resulted in a combination of small headlights and large, busy grilles, which did not favor the Suburban's massive frame. Despite these exterior design choices, the interior remained familiar and functional, with controls in their expected places. The Suburban offered a range of trim levels, from the base LS to the luxurious High Country, which featured upscale amenities but lacked the soft-touch materials typical of true luxury SUVs. The High Country trim, while equipped with advanced features like a panoramic sunroof and rear-seat media system, felt more like an upscale pickup than a luxury SUV.

In contrast, the 2021 Land Rover Range Rover exuded a timeless elegance, drawing on its rich heritage while offering modern luxury. The exterior design, with its hallmark cues and clean lines, gave the Range Rover a classic yet contemporary look. Inside, the Range Rover's cabin was a testament to luxury, with high-quality materials and a mid-century modern ambiance. However, the second-row seating fell short in comfort, lacking adequate thigh support and adjustability. Despite these shortcomings, the Range Rover's interior offered advanced climate control and a premium sound system, making it a comfortable space for front-seat occupants.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban came with a choice of three engines, including a standard 5.3-liter V8 producing 355 horsepower and a more powerful 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower. Our test model featured the newly available 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel engine, delivering 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided impressive torque and smooth acceleration, making the Suburban capable of towing up to 8,300 pounds with the Max Trailering package. The Suburban's handling was a mix of truck-like characteristics and improved ride quality, thanks to its independent rear suspension. However, it still exhibited body roll and was susceptible to crosswinds.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered a variety of powertrains, including a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine in the HSE Westminster special edition. This engine produced 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Range Rover's 4WD system, along with Terrain Response 2 traction control, ensured its legendary off-road capability. The adaptive air suspension provided a smooth and wafting ride, while the SUV's steering and handling required a more measured approach on winding roads. The Range Rover's fuel economy was rated at 20 mpg combined, with our test achieving 18.5 mpg.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban boasted an impressive cargo capacity, with 144.7 cubic feet of space available with the rear seats folded. Even with the second-row seats in use, it offered 93.8 cubic feet of cargo space, making it ideal for road trips. The Suburban provided ample head- and legroom for passengers, with spacious second-row captain's chairs. The control layout was user-friendly, although the button shifter design was less intuitive. The power-sliding center console was a novel feature, but its functionality was questionable.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured an air suspension with a kneel mode for easier entry and exit. The front seats were decadently comfortable, wrapped in quality leather upholstery. However, the second-row seating was less comfortable, lacking thigh support and adjustability. The Range Rover's storage space was limited, with a maximum cargo capacity of 59.8 cubic feet. The clamshell-style tailgate provided access to 25 cubic feet of luggage space, and a button in the cargo area activated the suspension kneel function for easier loading.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running GM's intuitive infotainment system. It featured wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an available navigation system and rear entertainment system. The head-up display provided clear and easy-to-read graphics, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover's technology was centered around three digital displays, including the InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system. While not entirely intuitive, it offered numerous features and functions. The system required setup to avoid distractions while driving, and the head-up display was not visible with polarized sunglasses. The Range Rover also featured a waterproof Activity Key wristband and an iGuide smartphone app for added convenience.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban was equipped with automatic emergency braking, forward-collision avoidance, and rear parking sensors. It also featured the Teen Driver system for promoting safe driving habits. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a surround-view camera system. Unique options like the rear-view camera mirror and Safety Alert Seat added to its safety offerings.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning as standard. Optional safety packages offered adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree surround-view camera. The HSE Westminster Edition included the Drive Pro and Park packages, providing comprehensive safety features.