2021 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2022 Volvo XC60

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 premium features. Despite its age, the Range Rover maintained a timeless design with hallmark features like blacked-out pillars and clean lines. Inside, it exuded luxury with an Ivory-color interior and a mid-century modern ambiance, although its infotainment system lagged behind newer models.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC60 received subtle styling updates, including a new front fascia and rear bumper, enhancing its sporty appearance. Built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, it shared its foundation with other Volvo models. The interior remained largely unchanged, featuring a clean design with a portrait-oriented touchscreen. The B6 R-Design test car added flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats, though it felt subdued compared to other Volvo models. The XC60 Inscription trim offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, maintaining a balance between luxury and simplicity.

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 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 (4WD) with a two-speed transfer case, ensuring its off-road prowess. The adaptive air suspension provided a smooth ride, while the Terrain Response 2 system offered multiple traction modes. Despite its weight and tall center of gravity, the Range Rover excelled in comfort and luxury, achieving an average fuel economy of 18.5 mpg.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 options. The B6 powertrain, with an electric supercharger, produced 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive (AWD). The XC60 B6 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds, offering a smooth and refined driving experience. The XC60 emphasized comfort and luxury, with a quiet cabin and optional air suspension enhancing the ride. Volvo also offered a plug-in hybrid version, the XC60 Recharge, with 400 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque, achieving zero to 60 mph in 5 seconds.

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 decadently comfortable, 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 a small center-console bin. Luggage volume was also restricted, with 25 cubic feet of cargo space and a maximum of 59.8 cubic feet. A button in the cargo area activated the suspension kneel function for easier loading.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 maintained competitive passenger space, with above-average front-seat headroom but limited rear-seat headroom. Cargo space was 21.6 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 49.8 cubic feet with them folded, slightly less for plug-in hybrid models. The XC60 offered a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors. Despite its somewhat limited cargo capacity, the XC60 provided a comfortable and practical interior for its class.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured a fully digital instrumentation and infotainment system with three displays. The InControl Touch Pro Duo system, while not entirely intuitive, offered numerous features and functions. Users were advised to set up the system to their preferences to minimize distractions while driving. The Range Rover also included a waterproof Activity Key wristband and an iGuide smartphone app for added convenience.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul with a 9-inch touchscreen running the Android Automotive operating system. It included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, and a built-in WiFi hotspot. The system featured Google Assistant for voice control, Google Maps for navigation, and access to third-party apps via the Google Play Store. The new layout allowed for easy navigation, and the digital instrument cluster offered a "Calm" setting to minimize distractions.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover came with 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, though the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond in certain situations.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA for the 2022 model year, but the 2021 model received top safety ratings. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. New features for 2022 included Ready to Drive Notification and Emergency Stop Assist. Volvo's Pilot Assist system, combining adaptive cruise control and lane centering, was available as an option.