2022 Chevrolet Suburban vs 2021 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover had evolved significantly from its rugged origins, transforming into a symbol of luxury and sophistication. Initially designed as a utilitarian vehicle, it quickly moved upscale, especially with the introduction of a four-door version. The 2021 model started at $92,000, with the potential to reach $250,000 with various upgrades. Despite its age, the Range Rover maintained a timeless design, with hallmark features like blacked-out windshield pillars and clean styling. Inside, it exuded luxury with its high-contrast Ivory-color interior, though its infotainment system, InControl Touch Pro Duo, was not as advanced as newer models.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Suburban embraced Chevrolet's full-size truck design language, sharing its styling with the Tahoe and Silverado 1500. Available in six trims, the Suburban offered a degree of customization. Our RST test vehicle featured a striking Cherry Red Tintcoat exterior and sporty black-painted wheels. Inside, the Suburban provided a spacious cabin, with the RST trim offering Jet Black perforated leather seats with Victory Red stitching. While the interior was comfortable, the predominantly black color scheme made it feel somewhat dark. The Suburban's size was both a strength and a challenge, offering ample space but making it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered a variety of powertrains, including a turbodiesel V6, a supercharged V8, and hybrid options. The HSE Westminster 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 standard four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case. The Range Rover excelled in off-road conditions, though our test was limited to a well-traveled trail. The adaptive air suspension provided a smooth ride, but the SUV's weight and tall center of gravity affected its handling on winding roads. The EPA rated its fuel economy at 20 mpg combined, but our test achieved 18.5 mpg.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban offered three engine choices: a 5.3-liter V8, a 6.2-liter V8, and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel inline-six. The 6.2-liter V8, part of the Sport Performance package, produced 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. It provided effortless power and acceleration, especially during an 80-mile tow test. The Suburban's maximum towing capacity was 8,300 pounds. The independent rear suspension improved ride and handling, while the 10-speed automatic transmission ensured smooth shifts. The Suburban's size and power made it a capable performer, though its fuel economy was not specified.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured an air suspension with a kneel mode for easier access. The front seats were comfortable, but the second row lacked thigh support and adjustability. Storage space was limited, with dual glove compartments compensating for a small center-console bin. Luggage volume was also restricted, with a maximum cargo space of 59.8 cubic feet. The clamshell-style tailgate and suspension kneel function aided loading.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in space, accommodating up to nine occupants with the optional front-row bench seat. The third row was livable for adults, and access was excellent. The Suburban offered 41.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 144.7 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. The power-sliding center console and hidden storage drawer added convenience. However, the Suburban's size made it challenging to maneuver and park in tight spaces, and the electronic push-button transmission controls required adjustment for those used to a column shifter.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured a fully digital instrumentation and infotainment system with three displays. The InControl Touch Pro Duo system was not entirely intuitive, requiring setup to avoid distractions while driving. The Range Rover included a waterproof Activity Key wristband and an iGuide smartphone app for assistance.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban offered advanced technology, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and Google built-in on LT trims and above. The Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Suburban provided multiple camera views, including a "transparent trailer" view. The LT trim and above featured a 10.2-inch infotainment system with satellite radio and wireless device charging. The audio system varied by trim, with a nine-speaker Bose system on the LT and a premium 10-speaker system on higher trims.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover included standard safety features like forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional packages added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera. The HSE Westminster Edition included the Drive Pro and Park packages, though the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban featured the Chevy Safety Assist suite, with automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and more. For 2022, additional features like front park assist and lane-keeping assistance became standard. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and a head-up display. The Suburban received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with specific ratings for crash protection and rollover resistance.