2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport, despite being in its second generation since its 2005 launch, maintained a modern and luxurious appeal. The 2018 refresh, which carried over into 2021, introduced a dual-screen center console that became a hallmark of Land Rover interiors. This model offered a variety of trims, from the base SE with leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control, to the high-performance SVR Carbon Edition with carbon fiber accents and a powerful V8 engine. The interior was characterized by its premium materials and advanced technology, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it a sophisticated choice for luxury SUV enthusiasts.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia EV6 presented a sportier and more futuristic design, reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E. Its sleek, low, and wide stance, combined with unique features like a lip spoiler lightbar and flush door handles, gave it a distinct presence. The interior boasted dual 12-inch screens, a floating center console, and a mix of suede and leather seats, creating a modern and tech-forward environment. The EV6's design was not just about aesthetics; it also offered practical features like a hidden rear charge port and an innovative climate control system integrated with the stereo controls, although this could be frustrating to use while driving.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered a range of powertrains, starting with the base P360 mild-hybrid system, which delivered 355 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. The HST model featured a more powerful P400 version, producing 395 hp and 406 lb-ft. The HSE Silver Edition provided options for a plug-in hybrid with 398 hp and 472 lb-ft, or a diesel engine with 254 hp and 443 lb-ft. The HSE Dynamic and Autobiography trims boasted a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine with 518 hp, while the SVR models pushed this to 575 hp. All models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, along with a height-adjustable air suspension and Terrain Response system, making it a formidable off-road and on-road performer. Towing capacity was impressive, with most models able to tow up to 7,716 pounds.

The 2022 Kia EV6, particularly in its GT-Line e-AWD configuration, delivered 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque from its dual electric motors. It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds, with a top-power GT trim promising 576 hp and a sub-3.5-second sprint. The EV6's performance was marked by its quick torque delivery and agile handling, outperforming Kia's Stinger in various conditions. However, its range was a concern, especially in cold weather, where it fell short of its 274-mile EPA estimate. Charging was efficient, with the ability to accept up to 240 kW, though real-world charging speeds varied. The EV6's regenerative braking system offered extensive customization, enhancing its driving dynamics.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport provided up to 63.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 31.7 cubic feet with the second row in use. An optional third row increased seating capacity to seven, though it reduced cargo space to 10.8 cubic feet and was best suited for children. The first and second rows offered ample headroom and legroom, ensuring comfort and luxury for passengers.

The 2022 Kia EV6 featured innovative design elements like pop-out door handles and a rotary shifter. Its interior was spacious, with generous legroom and headroom, although the cargo space was limited to 24 cubic feet behind the seats and 50 cubic feet when folded. The high load floor and low roof height restricted storage, and the front trunk was only available on RWD models. Towing capacity was 2,300 pounds, and the EV6 included an onboard power generator for added utility.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport's dual-screen center console was a standout feature, though it required a learning curve. The lower screen managed climate controls and vehicle settings, while the upper screen handled infotainment, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system's dials offered multifunctionality, but the overall interface was not the most intuitive.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with dual 12-inch screens and a host of connectivity options, though Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a wired connection. The system included advanced features like blind-spot monitoring with live feeds, a 360-degree camera, and a customizable HUD. The tech package was comprehensive, with standard features like HDA, fast-charging, and a wireless charger, while higher trims added a premium stereo and remote parking system.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport came with standard safety features like forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking, but advanced features like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring were optional. Additional safety options included a surround-view camera and driver drowsiness monitoring.

The 2022 Kia EV6 lacked published safety ratings but offered an impressive array of standard safety tech, including HDA, lane-keeping, and pedestrian detection. Higher trims added features like automatic rear braking and evasive steering assist. The EV6's safety suite was comprehensive, though some features like Kia Connect were unavailable in Massachusetts due to legal compliance issues.