2021 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2021 Honda HR-V

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover was a far cry from its rugged origins, having evolved into a symbol of luxury and sophistication. Initially designed as a utilitarian vehicle, it quickly transitioned into a high-end SUV, especially after the introduction of a four-door version. By 2021, the Range Rover's price started at $92,000, with the potential to exceed $250,000 when fully equipped with premium options like exclusive paint jobs and luxurious leather interiors. Despite its age, the Range Rover maintained a timeless design, with hallmark features such as blacked-out windshield pillars and clean, tapering lines. Inside, it exuded luxury with its high-contrast Ivory interior and mid-century modern ambiance, although its infotainment system lagged behind newer models.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda HR-V presented a softer, friendlier appearance compared to Honda's larger SUVs. Its design featured unique elements like converging window lines and rear door handles integrated into the triangular taillight area. Most trims came with 17-inch alloy wheels, while the Sport model boasted matte-black 18-inch wheels and blacked-out trim. The HR-V's interior was plain but functional, with good material quality and fit. Higher trims offered features like push-button start, automatic climate control, and leather upholstery, making it a solid choice for those seeking practicality and comfort without the luxury price tag.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered a variety of powertrains, including turbodiesel V6, supercharged V8, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options. The HSE Westminster special edition featured a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine, delivering 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. It came with a flawless eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard four-wheel drive system with a two-speed transfer case, ensuring its off-road capabilities. The Range Rover excelled in providing a smooth and quiet ride, thanks to its adaptive air suspension, although it required a more measured approach on winding roads due to its weight and tall center of gravity. The EPA estimated its fuel economy at 20 mpg combined, but real-world testing showed an average of 18.5 mpg.

The 2021 Honda HR-V, on the other hand, was powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine producing 141 horsepower and 127 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While front-wheel drive was standard, all-wheel drive was available across all trims. The HR-V's powertrain was considered underpowered for highway driving, especially compared to competitors with more robust engine options. However, its chassis made up for the lack of power, offering a rewarding driving experience on twisty roads. The HR-V's AWD system was suitable for slippery roads but not for off-road adventures, and it lacked towing capabilities.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured an air suspension with a kneel mode for easier access, though shorter passengers still found entry challenging. The front seats were decadently comfortable, wrapped in quality leather, but the second row lacked thigh support and adjustability, resulting in an uncomfortable seating position. Storage space was limited, with dual glove compartments compensating for the small center-console bin. Luggage volume was also restricted, with a maximum cargo space of 59.8 cubic feet. A button in the cargo area activated the suspension kneel function for easier loading.

The 2021 Honda HR-V impressed with its cargo space, thanks to the "Magic Seat" 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat. Folding the seat down provided 58.8 cubic feet of cargo space (57.6 for AWD models), surpassing many competitors. The HR-V also excelled in rear-seat legroom, leading the segment in this category. While interior storage solutions were not particularly clever, the HR-V offered sensibly-designed controls, including large knobs for climate control and an audio volume knob. The narrow center console featured a large shift lever, prioritizing simplicity and ease of use.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover boasted a fully digital instrumentation and infotainment system, rendered across three displays. While the InControl Touch Pro Duo system was not entirely intuitive, it was manageable for those familiar with smartphones and tablets. However, using the dual 10-inch touchscreens while driving was distracting, 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.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda HR-V's base LX trim offered standard Bluetooth, a 5-inch display screen, and a four-speaker audio system. Upgrading to the Sport trim provided a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, while EX and EX-L models added SiriusXM satellite radio. The infotainment system was plain but functional, with two USB ports conveniently located ahead of the shifter. However, the 7-inch touchscreen was considered small compared to competitors, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not standard across all trims.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover came equipped with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and parking sensors. Additional driver aids were optional, with packages offering features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree surround-view camera. The HSE Westminster Edition included the Drive Pro and Park packages, though the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond in certain situations.

The 2021 Honda HR-V received top "Good" scores in all IIHS crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. However, it received "Marginal" and "Poor" headlight ratings and an "Acceptable" rating for LATCH ease of use. Honda Sensing safety features were available on EX and EX-L trims, including forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The HR-V also featured Honda's LaneWatch, providing a camera view when the turn signal was activated.