2021 Lexus RX vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar

The 2021 Lexus RX showcased a modern design aesthetic that was quintessentially Lexus, featuring a large grille, angular headlamps, and a floating roof. The interior was luxurious, with sumptuous seating and perforated leather upholstery, although the center console design was considered bland and somewhat dated. The RX was available in five variants, including the performance-focused RX F Sport and the extended-body RXL with a third row of seating. Standard features included 18-inch aluminum wheels and LED lighting, with options for larger wheels and additional exterior upgrades. The interior offered a range of standard and available features, from power-adjustable seats to semi-aniline leather upholstery, though the infotainment system was criticized for its dated appearance and functionality.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar was a testament to Land Rover's long-standing reputation for luxury SUVs, exuding class and elegance. Its design was a sporty adaptation of the classic Range Rover profile, with a long wheelbase, short overhangs, and a trapezoidal roof. The Velar's exterior was marked by flush door handles and unique taillight lenses, while the R-Dynamic trim added bronze accents and a more aggressive front bumper. Inside, the Velar's cabin was sleek and high-quality, even in the base trim, with a polished black center stack and sharp, sophisticated graphics on its three screens. The interior materials were of high quality, though the base model lacked some of the luxurious touches found in higher trims.

The 2021 Lexus RX was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX Hybrid models offered 308 horsepower with a 3.5-liter V6 and three electric motors, managed by an electronic continuously variable transmission (e-CVT). The RX was known for its comfortable cruising capabilities, with the F Sport model providing a bit more spirited performance. Fuel efficiency varied, with the FWD RX 350 achieving 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, while the RX Hybrid models managed up to 31 mpg city. The RX's handling was improved with tuning adjustments, though it was not considered sporty.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar shared its chassis with the Jaguar F-Pace, offering a lower center of gravity and lighter weight for improved handling. The base engine was a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four with 247 horsepower, while an optional 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system provided up to 395 horsepower. The Velar's ride was smooth and controlled, with an optional air suspension offering a plush "magic carpet" ride. The standard Terrain Response system included six driving modes, though the Velar's off-road capabilities were limited compared to larger Range Rover models. The Velar's performance was enhanced by the mild-hybrid system, which improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.

The 2021 Lexus RX was a functional SUV with seating for five in the two-row models and up to seven in the three-row RXL variants. Front and second-row seating offered ample space, though the third row was tight. Cargo space was limited, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with seats folded in the two-row models. The three-row RXL offered just 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar offered a tighter interior compared to midsize SUVs, with limited headroom and visibility due to its stylish design. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 49 cubic feet with seats folded. The Velar's design sacrifices practicality for aesthetics, with a controversial parking brake control integrated into the transmission button. The Pivi Pro infotainment system improved usability, and the Velar featured a range of modern technologies, though some design choices were criticized for prioritizing style over function.

The 2021 Lexus RX came with a standard 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a nine-speaker sound system. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a 15-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound system, and wireless charging. The infotainment system was functional but dated, with a Remote Touch controller that was less refined than competitors' systems. The RX lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which may be a drawback for tech-savvy buyers.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar's Pivi Pro infotainment system was a pleasant surprise, offering a simplified layout and logical arrangements. It featured voice activation, a PM2.5 air filter, and advanced navigation capabilities. The Velar's technology suite included a 360-degree camera system, adaptive cruise control, and a 12-speaker Meridian stereo. The infotainment system was praised for its ease of use, though some driving assist features were not as advanced as competitors.

The 2021 Lexus RX received a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, with Good marks on crashworthiness tests. The NHTSA rated the RX 350, RX 350L, and RX 450h with four out of five stars overall. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, 10 airbags, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which offered a range of driver-assist technologies. The RX's safety suite was comprehensive, though not as advanced as some newer models.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar scored well in the European NCAP, with a five-star rating and a 93-percent score for front and side impact tests. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included 360-degree cameras and adaptive cruise control with steering assist. The Velar's safety features were robust, though U.S. crash-test ratings were not available.