2021 Lexus RX vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2021 Lexus RX showcased a modern design aesthetic that was emblematic of the brand's styling cues. It featured a large grille, angular headlamps, and a shapely body with 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 models with a third row of seating. Standard features included 18-inch aluminum wheels, LED lighting, and rear privacy glass, 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 and heated steering wheels.

In contrast, the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover was more of an evolutionary redesign, maintaining its broad, rounded face and large expanses of sheet metal. The most notable change was at the rear, where thin LED strips replaced the old square taillights. The interior was simplified with fewer buttons and a larger tablet-like touchscreen, giving it a modern look. Materials quality was excellent, with premium leather and rich wood trim elements. The Range Rover's solid feel and quiet cabin were impressive, offering a refined luxury experience. It was positioned as a premium luxury SUV, delivering a more refined interior than competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLS and BMW X7.

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 combination of a V6 engine and three electric motors. The RX was known for its comfortable cruising capabilities, with the F Sport model providing a bit more spirited driving experience. The RX achieved a top speed of 124 mph and accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 7.7 to 7.9 seconds, depending on the drivetrain. Fuel efficiency varied, with the FWD RX 350 achieving 23 mpg combined, while the RX Hybrid models managed up to 31 mpg in the city.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrains: a base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, and an optional P530 with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine delivering 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The P400 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, impressive for its size. The Range Rover was agile for a large SUV, with well-managed body roll and a calm, composed driving experience. It also featured rear-wheel steering for improved maneuverability and retained its off-road capability with Land Rover's Terrain Response system.

The 2021 Lexus RX offered functional interior space, with the two-row models seating five and the three-row RXL models seating six or seven. Front and second-row seating provided ample space, while 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. The three-row version offered 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 58.5 cubic feet with seats folded. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover provided generous space in the first two rows, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. Front seats were cushioned for comfort, with available massage functions. Storage options included two glove boxes, a wireless charging pad, and a large center console bin. The second row offered ample space for taller passengers, with power recline and sliding adjustments. The optional third row was accessible with a button, though headroom was limited for adults. Cargo space was 17.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 93 cubic feet with seats folded. A split tailgate and air suspension height adjustment aided loading.

The 2021 Lexus RX came with standard technology features like dual-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, and smartphone integration. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a 15-speaker Mark Levinson sound system. The infotainment system was functional but dated, with a Remote Touch controller that took up console space. Steering-wheel controls were user-friendly, but the lack of wireless smartphone integration was a drawback.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover featured a new Pivi Pro infotainment system with a 13-inch touchscreen, offering sharper graphics and quicker responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a wireless charging pad. The Meridian audio system provided excellent sound quality, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade. Other tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote parking, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The touchscreen's lower placement required more attention, but basic climate controls were well-designed.

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 suite of driver-assist technologies. However, it lacked advanced hands-off piloting features found in some competitors.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, which was common for luxury SUVs. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. While adequately equipped, it lacked some advanced features offered by rivals, such as advanced high beams and emergency stop functions.