2022 Subaru Forester vs 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport, despite being in its second generation since 2014, continued to impress with its luxurious design and high-end features. The 2018 refresh introduced a dual-screen center console, a hallmark of Land Rover interiors, and the availability of a plug-in hybrid variant. 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 a powerful V8 engine and carbon fiber accents. Each trim level added layers of luxury and performance, with features like quad-zone climate control, panoramic sunroofs, and advanced sound systems, making it a versatile choice for those seeking both comfort and power.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Forester focused on practicality and ruggedness, especially with the new Wilderness trim. This model was designed for adventure, featuring a suspension lift, higher ground clearance, and protective cladding. The interior, while functional, emphasized durability with water-repellant StarTex simulated leather and all-weather floor mats. The Forester's design was more about utility than luxury, with a straightforward infotainment system and a focus on ease of use. Despite its somewhat dated appearance, the Forester's interior was well-constructed, offering a comfortable and practical driving experience, particularly appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered a variety 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 of torque. For those seeking even more power, 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 the Range Rover Sport a formidable off-road vehicle. It could tow up to 7,716 pounds, except for the SVR, which had a slightly lower towing capacity.

The 2022 Subaru Forester, while not as powerful, offered a reliable 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. It featured a CVT and standard AWD, with the Wilderness model enhancing initial torque supply by 25%. This model also doubled the towing capacity to 3,000 pounds. The Forester's fuel economy was commendable, with an EPA rating of 26 mpg combined. Its driving dynamics were solid, with a re-tuned suspension for improved ride and handling, and the Wilderness trim further enhanced off-road capabilities with longer springs, shocks, and all-terrain tires. Despite its lack of a turbocharger, the Forester excelled in various driving environments, proving to be a capable and versatile SUV.

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 reduced cargo space to 10.8 cubic feet. The interior provided ample headroom and legroom in the first and second rows, with luxurious appointments throughout. However, the third row was tight and best suited for children.

The 2022 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality, with easy entry and exit due to tall seating hip points. The interior featured water-resistant StarTex upholstery and all-weather floor mats, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The Forester offered 28.9 cubic feet of cargo space without the panoramic sunroof, and 26.9 cubic feet with it. Folding the rear seats expanded this to 74.2 cubic feet, making it one of the roomiest compact SUVs. The upgraded roof rails accommodated a three-person roof tent, enhancing its appeal for adventure seekers. Comfort levels were high, with excellent visibility and practical storage solutions throughout the cabin.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport's interior was dominated by a dual-screen center console, with the lower screen handling climate controls and vehicle settings, and the upper screen for infotainment. While the system had a learning curve and some bugs in earlier models, it offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The system's dials allowed for multiple functions, and a real volume button was included, though somewhat inconveniently placed.

The 2022 Subaru Forester came equipped with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the base trim, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and Starlink connected services. Higher trims offered an 8-inch screen with navigation and a Harman Kardon sound system. The Wilderness trim included a 180-degree forward-view camera for off-roading. The system was user-friendly, though the voice recognition was hit-or-miss. The PIN Code Access feature allowed for keyless entry, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport included standard driver assistance features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. However, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert were optional. Additional features included a surround-view camera, traffic sign recognition, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Subaru Forester introduced the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, with improved camera-based technology and a new Automatic Emergency Steering system. It included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist. The Forester also offered blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rear automatic braking system. The Touring trim featured DriverFocus, a facial recognition technology for monitoring drowsiness and distraction. The Forester earned a 5-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA and was expected to retain its "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.