2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport, despite being in its second generation since 2014, continued to impress with its refreshed design from 2018. This refresh introduced the dual-screen center console, a hallmark of Land Rover interiors, and added a plug-in hybrid variant in 2020. The model offered a range 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. Each trim level added layers of luxury and performance, with features like quad-zone climate control, panoramic sunroofs, and powerful V8 engines in higher trims. The interior was defined by its dual-screen infotainment system, which, while not the most intuitive, provided a modern touch to the cabin.

In contrast, the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover represented an evolutionary step in design, maintaining its broad, rounded face and large sheet metal surfaces. The most notable exterior change was the rear, which featured thin LED strips integrated into a darker trim element. Inside, the Range Rover was simplified with fewer buttons and a larger tablet-like touchscreen, enhancing its modern appeal. The interior materials were of exceptional quality, with premium leather and rich wood trim elements. The cabin exuded luxury, with a solid feel and a quiet ride, making it a standout in the luxury SUV segment. The 2022 model offered a refined interior experience, rivaling even more expensive alternatives like Maybach or Bentley.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered a variety of powertrains, starting with the base P360 mild-hybrid system, which combined a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with a 48-volt electrical system, producing 355 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. The HST model featured a more potent P400 version, delivering 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. The HSE Silver Edition offered plug-in hybrid and diesel options, with the P400e plug-in hybrid generating 398 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. The supercharged 5.0-liter V8 in the HSE Dynamic and Autobiography trims produced 518 hp, while the SVR and SVR Carbon Edition boasted 575 hp. All models featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, with impressive off-road capabilities and a towing capacity of up to 7,716 pounds.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover provided two powertrain options: the base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six and a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, and the P530 with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8, delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD. The P400 offered effortless acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, while the V8 provided a more robust performance. The Range Rover's handling was surprisingly agile for its size, with well-managed body roll and a calm, composed driving experience. The standard rear-wheel-steering enhanced maneuverability, making it easy to navigate tight spaces and off-road trails.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered a maximum of 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 provided only 10.8 cubic feet of cargo space when in use. The first and second rows offered ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was best suited for children. The cargo space was adequate for road trips, but there were more spacious options available.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover excelled in interior space, with generous room in the first two rows and excellent outward visibility. The front seats were cushioned for long-distance comfort, with available massage functions. Storage options included two glove boxes, a wireless charging pad, and a large center console bin. The second row offered ample space for taller passengers, with power recline and sliding adjustments. The optional third row, accessible with a button, provided limited headroom for adults but was suitable for smaller passengers. Cargo space behind the third row was 17.1 cubic feet, expanding to 43.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 93 cubic feet with the second row down. The split tailgate and adjustable air suspension height facilitated loading and unloading.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport featured a dual-screen center console, with the lower screen controlling climate and vehicle settings, and the upper screen housing the infotainment system. While not the most intuitive, the system included dials for various functions and a real volume button. The touchscreen layout was simplified, with icons for menu navigation and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Despite a learning curve, the system was functional, though not the best in the market.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover introduced a larger 13-inch touchscreen with the new Pivi Pro infotainment system, offering sharper graphics and quicker responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, complementing the wireless charging pad. The screen's placement required more attention, but basic climate controls were designed for minimal distraction. The Meridian audio system delivered impressive sound quality, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade. Additional tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and smartphone app connectivity.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport came with standard driver assistance features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and parking sensors. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera. While adequately equipped, some features were standard on less expensive vehicles.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover included standard safety features such as frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and a surround-view camera system. These features performed well, with the surround-view cameras proving useful off-road. While adequately covered, some rivals offered additional safety features not present in the Range Rover.