2022 Acura RDX vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar exuded a sense of luxury and sophistication that was hard to match. Its design was a testament to Land Rover's long-standing tradition of crafting elegant SUVs. The Velar's exterior was a visual delight, with its sleek, sporty silhouette that borrowed elements from the larger Range Rover. The long wheelbase, short overhangs, and signature Land Rover grille were unmistakable, while the flush door handles and subtle roof slope added a modern touch. The interior, though less opulent than previous models, still maintained a high standard of quality with its polished black center stack and high-grade materials. The Velar's design was both a nod to tradition and a step into the future, making it a standout in the luxury SUV segment.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX offered a more understated yet stylish appearance. The RDX's design updates were inspired by its larger sibling, the MDX, and included subtle changes to the grille and bumper styling. The A-Spec Advance package added a touch of flair with its Apex Blue Pearl paint and Orchid interior. Inside, the RDX was spacious and comfortable, with a focus on practicality and user-friendly features. The panoramic sunroof and sporty driving position added to the overall appeal. While the RDX's interior layout required some acclimation, it ultimately provided a pleasant driving experience with its comfortable seats and intuitive controls. The RDX's design was a blend of style and functionality, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a balance between luxury and practicality.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar shared its chassis with the Jaguar F-Pace, resulting in a driving experience that was distinct from previous Land Rover models. Its lower center of gravity and lighter weight contributed to improved handling and braking. The Velar's base engine was a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four, producing 247 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. While the turbo-four provided average response, the optional 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system offered more power, with up to 395 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque. The Velar's Terrain Response system and optional air suspension enhanced its on-road performance, though its off-road capabilities were limited compared to larger Range Rover models.

The 2022 Acura RDX, on the other hand, was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided a lively driving experience. The RDX's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, available on higher trims, offered impressive torque-vectoring capabilities, enhancing its agility on winding roads. The RDX's revised Integrated Dynamics System and adaptive-damping suspension contributed to a smoother and more comfortable ride. While the RDX excelled in driving dynamics, it fell short of earning Acura's Type S performance badge, leaving driving enthusiasts to consider German alternatives for a more thrilling experience.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar offered a tighter interior space compared to midsize SUVs, with limited headroom and visibility due to its stylish design. Cargo space was modest, with 16 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 49 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Velar's interior design choices, such as the lack of a discrete parking brake control, were frustrating, and the new shifter design obstructed access to volume and climate controls. However, the Pivi Pro infotainment system improved the user experience with a cleaner interface and faster operation.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX provided ample room for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof enhancing the sense of space. The RDX's interior featured a sporty driving position and a unique control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system. While the back seat lacked comfort for adults, the RDX offered a generous 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 58.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The RDX's interior was a blend of style and practicality, with features like a power liftgate and hidden storage compartments adding to its functionality.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar's Pivi Pro infotainment system exceeded expectations with its simplified layout and logical arrangement of functions. The system offered features like voice activation, a PM2.5 air filter, and a heated windshield. The navigation system provided intelligent route suggestions, while the 360-degree cameras and off-road mode enhanced the driving experience. Standard features included LED headlights, automatic high beams, and a 12-speaker Meridian stereo.

The 2022 Acura RDX's True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system required a learning curve, with its touchpad controller corresponding to the display screen. While the TTI was initially complex, features like Amazon Alexa Built-in and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration reduced the need for its use. The RDX offered three premium sound systems, with the ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system providing an impressive audio experience. Additional features included a wireless charging pad, satellite radio, and a head-up display on higher trims.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar lacked U.S. crash-test ratings but performed well in the European New Car Assessment Program (NCAP), earning five stars and a 93-percent score. 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 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety and aimed to maintain its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. New safety features included a rear seatbelt reminder system and enhanced AcuraWatch driver-assist systems. The RDX earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings and five-star side-impact ratings.