2021 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2021 Nissan Kicks

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover was a symbol of luxury and sophistication, a far cry from its rugged origins. Once a utilitarian vehicle, it evolved into a high-end SUV with a starting price of $92,000, which could soar to $250,000 with premium options. The test model, priced at $106,715, featured the HSE Westminster special-edition trim, showcasing a timeless design with hallmark cues like blacked-out pillars and clean styling. Inside, the Range Rover exuded luxury with its Ivory-color interior and mid-century modern ambiance, although its infotainment system was less intuitive than newer models.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Kicks underwent significant exterior changes, aligning with Nissan's new design language. The Kicks featured a bold V-motion grille, thinner headlights, and a redesigned rear, giving it a distinct and stylish appearance. The SR trim, tested here, boasted LED headlights, a sporty aesthetic, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The interior, inspired by the 2020 Nissan Sentra, offered higher quality materials and a more upscale feel. The Kicks also provided a two-tone paint option, enhancing its visual appeal and making it stand out in the subcompact class.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered a range of powertrains, including a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine in the HSE Westminster edition, delivering 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. Its 4WD system, with a two-speed transfer case and Terrain Response 2 traction control, ensured off-road capability. The SUV's adaptive air suspension provided a smooth ride, while its steering and handling required a more measured approach on winding roads. The EPA rated its fuel economy at 20 mpg combined, but the test vehicle averaged 18.5 mpg.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks, on the other hand, came with a single powertrain option: a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a CVT and FWD, the Kicks offered nimble handling and easy maneuverability. Its suspension system, featuring a front independent strut stabilizer bar, contributed to a comfortable ride. The Kicks excelled in fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of 31 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined, making it one of the most economical subcompact crossovers.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured an air suspension with a kneel mode for easier access, though shorter passengers found entry challenging. The front seats were luxurious, but the second row lacked comfort and adjustability. Storage space was limited, with a small center-console bin and 25 cubic feet of luggage volume. The clamshell-style tailgate and suspension kneel function aided loading, but overall cargo capacity was less than some competitors.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks made efficient use of its compact size, offering easy-to-reach controls and ample small-item storage. The interior featured a D-shaped steering wheel, adjustable seats, and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. The Kicks boasted best-in-class front seat legroom, though hip room was limited. The rear seats accommodated adults comfortably, and the available tonneau cover provided hidden storage in the cargo area.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover's technology suite included three digital displays for instrumentation and infotainment, though the system was not entirely intuitive. The InControl Touch Pro Duo system required setup to avoid distractions while driving. The Range Rover also featured a waterproof Activity Key wristband and an iGuide smartphone app for assistance with the vehicle's functions.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks offered a robust technology package, with the base model featuring a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more. The SR Premium Package included a class-exclusive Bose Personal Plus sound system, providing an immersive audio experience. The Kicks also offered a surround-view monitor and a WiFi hotspot for over-the-air updates, enhancing convenience and connectivity.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover came standard with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and other safety features. Optional packages added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and semi-autonomous parking capabilities. The HSE Westminster Edition included the Drive Pro and Park packages, though the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks featured Nissan Safety Shield 360, a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and rear automatic braking. The Kicks had 10 airbags and standard LATCH connections. While not crash-tested for 2021, the 2020 model received favorable ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.