2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner, despite its age, maintained a rugged charm that appealed to those seeking a durable and reliable SUV. Its design, though not conventionally attractive, was functional and timeless, with a two-box body and flared fenders that emphasized its utility. The 4Runner was available in several trims, including the SR5, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro, with special editions like the Trail Special Edition adding unique features. The interior was straightforward, with hard plastics and a traditional dashboard layout, reflecting its utilitarian nature. The 4Runner was a vehicle that prioritized durability and simplicity, making it a long-lasting choice for those who valued function over form.

In contrast, the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar exuded luxury and sophistication, with a design that was both sporty and elegant. Its sleek profile, flush door handles, and distinctive Range Rover grille made it stand out among luxury SUVs. The Velar's interior was equally impressive, with high-quality materials and a modern design that included multiple touchscreens and customizable displays. Despite its stylish appearance, the Velar's interior space was somewhat limited, with reduced headroom and cargo capacity compared to larger SUVs. However, its advanced technology and luxurious features made it a desirable choice for those seeking a premium driving experience.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner was built for off-road adventures, with a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. It featured a five-speed automatic transmission and a part-time 4WD system, making it capable of tackling challenging terrains. The 4Runner's off-road prowess was enhanced by features like A-Trac, a standard off-road traction control system, and optional upgrades like a locking rear differential and Crawl Control. However, on paved roads, the 4Runner felt heavy and clunky, with slow acceleration and less refined handling. Its fuel efficiency was also a drawback, averaging 16.8 mpg during testing.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar offered a more refined driving experience, with a base 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine delivering 247 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD, providing a smooth and controlled ride. The Velar's optional air suspension and adaptive dampers further enhanced its comfort and handling. For those seeking more power, the Velar offered a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with a mild-hybrid system, available in two states of tune, providing up to 395 horsepower. While the Velar excelled on the road, its off-road capabilities were limited compared to larger Range Rover models.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner offered a spacious and comfortable interior, with ample legroom and supportive seats. Its high ground clearance made entry and exit challenging for shorter passengers, but once inside, the 4Runner provided a pleasant ride. The cargo space was generous, with up to 89.7 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded down. The 4Runner's interior was practical, with features like a sliding cargo deck and a large roof rack for additional storage.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar, while stylish, sacrificed some interior space for its sleek design. The headroom was limited, especially for rear-seat passengers, and the cargo capacity was modest, with 49 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded. The Velar's interior was luxurious, with high-quality materials and advanced technology, but some design choices, like the lack of a discrete parking brake control, were less practical.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner's technology was basic, with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system offering features like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with physical buttons and knobs for easy operation. The Trail Special Edition included a premium audio upgrade with dynamic navigation and voice recognition, enhancing the infotainment experience.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar featured the advanced Pivi Pro infotainment system, which was intuitive and customizable. It offered voice activation, a PM2.5 air filter, and a 360-degree camera system. The Velar's technology was sophisticated, with features like adaptive cruise control and a 12-speaker Meridian stereo, providing a premium experience for tech-savvy drivers.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense P, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane departure warning. However, it lacked features like blind-spot monitoring, which was a notable omission. The 4Runner's safety ratings reflected its age, with mixed results from the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar had not been rated by U.S. safety agencies, but it performed well in European NCAP tests. It offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features like adaptive cruise control with steering assist further enhanced its safety credentials.