2021 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2022 Lexus GX

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 had become a high-end SUV with a starting price of $92,000, which could soar to $250,000 with various upgrades. The test model, priced at $106,715, featured the HSE Westminster special-edition trim, offering a blend of standard and luxurious features. Despite its age, the Range Rover maintained a timeless design with hallmark cues and a luxurious interior, though its infotainment system lagged behind newer models.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition embraced a bold, blacked-out aesthetic, appealing to those who favored a sleek, monochromatic look. Despite its modern exterior, the GX retained an old-school charm, reminiscent of its predecessors. The interior boasted high-quality craftsmanship and a quiet cabin, with a focus on comfort and refinement. However, the GX's design felt dated, and its technology, while improved, still lagged behind competitors. The Black Line Special Edition, priced at $60,535, offered a unique style but struggled to hide the vehicle's age.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered a variety of powertrains, including a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine in the HSE Westminster edition, delivering 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, provided a smooth and powerful driving experience. The Range Rover's 4WD system, with a two-speed transfer case and Terrain Response 2 traction control, ensured off-road capability. Despite its weight and tall center of gravity, the adaptive air suspension provided a comfortable ride, though it required a measured approach on winding roads. The EPA estimated a combined fuel economy of 20 mpg, but the test vehicle averaged 18.5 mpg.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with its 4.6-liter V8 engine, produced 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, allowing for a 7.8-second sprint to 60 mph. The GX's full-time 4WD system, with a limited-slip differential and electronic differential lock, provided stability and off-road capability. Despite its high drag coefficient and weight, the GX achieved a combined fuel economy of 16.8 mpg during testing. The Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System improved ride quality, but the steering and brake pedal detracted from the overall driving experience. The Off-Road Package enhanced the GX's capabilities for those venturing into challenging terrain.

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 offered luxurious comfort, but the second row lacked support and adjustability. Storage space was limited, with a small refrigerated center console and minimal luggage capacity. The clamshell-style tailgate and suspension kneel function aided loading, but overall cargo space was less than expected for a vehicle of its size.

The 2022 Lexus GX provided a commanding driving position and clear visibility, though the steering required effort. The interior featured comfortable seating and physical controls, but the layout led to occasional confusion. The Black Line Special Edition included NuLuxe upholstery and black ash wood trim. The rear seats offered ample legroom, but the third row was cramped and difficult to access. The side-opening tailgate and limited cargo space further complicated loading, though folding the third row increased capacity to 64.7 cubic feet.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover's digital instrumentation and infotainment system, spread across three displays, offered numerous features but lacked intuitiveness. The InControl Touch Pro Duo system required setup to avoid distractions while driving, and the head-up display was ineffective with polarized sunglasses. The Activity Key wristband and iGuide smartphone app added convenience, but the overall technology experience was mixed.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation, with a CD player for nostalgia. The layout of controls was counterintuitive, but the dual-screen view and voice recognition technology were highlights. The GX also featured Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view cameras, though overall technology offerings were limited compared to competitors.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover came equipped with essential safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional packages added advanced driver aids, such as adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera. The HSE Westminster Edition included several safety packages, though the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond in certain situations.

The 2022 Lexus GX, lacking crash-test ratings, relied on the Lexus Safety System+ for collision avoidance. This included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Additional features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, but the GX lacked more advanced driver aids found in competitors. The absence of these technologies contributed to a more straightforward driving experience.