2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid 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 gradually moved upscale, especially with the introduction of a four-door version. By 2021, the Range Rover was a luxury SUV with a starting price of $92,000, but with various powertrains and personalization options, it could cost upwards of $250,000. 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 Ivory-color interior and mid-century modern ambiance, although its infotainment system was not as advanced as newer models.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from Toyota's Tacoma pickup, giving it a rugged appearance. However, its design was somewhat disjointed, with a character line that added unnecessary visual weight. The interior was unconventional but less jarring, featuring an asymmetrical dash and a high-mounted infotainment touchscreen. The Highlander Hybrid Bronze Edition had light grey fabric seat upholstery with a pattern that seemed more suited for a paper towel. While the Softex synthetic leather substitute was disappointing, the rear seating area was practical with hard plastics for durability. Despite its styling and material quality, the Highlander Hybrid remained appealing due to its hybrid powertrain, catering to a niche audience.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered a variety of powertrain options, including turbodiesel V6, supercharged V8, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid choices. 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 standard four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case. The Range Rover excelled in off-road capabilities, aided by Terrain Response 2 traction control. On-road, it provided a smooth and quiet ride, although its steering was relatively slow and the adaptive air suspension struggled with the SUV's weight. The EPA estimated a combined fuel economy of 20 mpg, but the test vehicle averaged 18.5 mpg.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable transmission. It featured standard front-wheel drive, with an optional all-wheel-drive system powered by an electric motor. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 60 mph in just over 8 seconds, comparable to gasoline-only SUVs in its class. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick but tepid response from a standstill, with the gasoline engine supplying adequate power. The ride quality was soft, and the cabin remained quiet on the highway. However, the engine's drone during acceleration was off-putting, especially when climbing hills.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured an air suspension with a kneel mode for easier entry and exit. The front seats were decadently comfortable, but the second row lacked thigh support and adjustability, resulting in a slouched seating position. Despite this, the back seat offered quad-zone climate control and heated and ventilated seats. 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.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, although the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage was plentiful, with various trays and bins for personal effects. The second-row seats were spacious, with sliding and reclining capabilities, and could accommodate six-footers comfortably. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for occasional use by children. Cargo space behind the third row was 16 cubic feet, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with the seatbacks folded, and 84.3 cubic feet with the second row stowed.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured fully digital instrumentation and infotainment, with three displays offering numerous features and functions. The InControl Touch Pro Duo system was not entirely intuitive, and using the touchscreens while driving was distracting. The Range Rover included a head-up display, but it was not visible with polarized sunglasses. The Activity Key wristband allowed owners to leave the key fob inside the vehicle, and the iGuide smartphone app served as a digital owner's manual.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for top trims. The system was quick to respond, with logically organized menus and physical shortcut buttons. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration were standard, along with a wireless charging pad on XLE trims and above. Limited and Platinum trims featured navigation and an 11-speaker JBL audio system.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover included standard safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. 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, although the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist required fine-tuning, with abrupt stops and excessive steering resistance.