2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Lexus NX was available in three versions: the NX 300, NX 300 F Sport, and the NX 300h hybrid. The focus here was on the gasoline models, particularly the performance-oriented F Sport version. The NX carried over Lexus's signature design elements, with sharp lines and a sculpted exterior that echoed the styling of the smaller UX and larger RX models. Standard features included power-folding mirrors and 17-inch wheels, while the F Sport variant added sporty touches like a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch wheels. Inside, the F Sport boasted exclusive quilted NuLuxe sport seats and optional Circuit Red interior, maintaining Lexus's reputation for excellent material fit and finish. However, the interior design, particularly the gauge cluster and center stack, felt somewhat dated compared to newer competitors.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport, in its second generation since 2014, continued to impress with its luxurious and versatile design. The 2018 refresh, which carried over into 2021, introduced a dual-screen center console that became a hallmark of Land Rover interiors. The Range Rover Sport offered a variety of trims, from the base SE with leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control to the high-performance SVR Carbon Edition with carbon fiber accents and 22-inch wheels. The interior was spacious, with optional third-row seating increasing capacity to seven, though the third row was best suited for children. The cargo space was generous, with up to 63.7 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded, making it a practical choice for families and adventurers alike.

The 2021 Lexus NX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. While not designed for sporty driving, it was capable, with a 0-60 mph time of around seven seconds. The six-speed automatic transmission was adequate, though not as smooth as newer multi-speed options. The NX offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available, allowing up to 50% of torque to be transferred to the rear axle. Fuel economy was decent, with the FWD model achieving 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. The NX F Sport featured an adaptive suspension system for a smoother ride, though steering feedback was minimal. The SUV had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds and a top speed of 124 mph.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered a range of powertrains, starting with the base P360 mild-hybrid system, which combined a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with a 48-volt electrical system, producing 355 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. The HST model featured a more powerful P400 version, delivering 395 hp and 406 lb-ft. The HSE Silver Edition offered plug-in hybrid and diesel options, with the P400e plug-in hybrid generating 398 hp and 472 lb-ft. The HSE Dynamic and Autobiography trims boasted a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 with 518 hp, while the SVR models pushed this to 575 hp. All models had an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, with height-adjustable air suspension and a Terrain Response system for off-road capability. The Range Rover Sport could tow up to 7,716 pounds, except for the SVR, which was limited to 6,613 pounds.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured a well-styled and comfortable interior, with ample room for adults in both the front and second-row seats. Heated and ventilated seats were available, and the rear seats offered a 60/40 split-folding option. However, cargo space was limited, with just 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The NX was equipped with a power liftgate and optional power-folding rear seats, but its storage capacity was among the smallest in its class.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport provided a more spacious interior, with up to 63.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 31.7 cubic feet with the second row in use. An optional third row increased seating capacity to seven, though the space was tight. Both the first and second rows offered generous headroom and legroom, with luxurious appointments throughout. The cargo space was suitable for road trips or extra luggage, though larger options were available in the market.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, upgradeable to a 10.3-inch screen with the Navigation package. This package included predictive traffic information and Lexus Enform Destination Assist. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though the Lexus system was less user-friendly than competitors. Other features included keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus Enform Remote app allowed remote control of various functions, and a 10-year subscription to Enform Services Connect was included.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport's interior was dominated by a dual-screen center console, with the lower screen handling climate controls and vehicle settings, and the upper screen for infotainment. The system had a learning curve, but integrated dials offered versatile control. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, and a real volume button was included. While not the most intuitive system, it was functional, though better options existed in the market.

The 2021 Lexus NX came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included a rearview camera, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. The NX received top "Good" scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Lexus Enform Safety Connect provided additional safety features, and the NX was backed by a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered standard driver assistance features like forward-collision warning and lane departure warning. Adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring were optional. Additional features included a surround-view camera and driver drowsiness monitoring. While the Range Rover Sport had a decent safety suite, some features were standard on less expensive vehicles.