2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover underwent a subtle evolution rather than a complete redesign. Its front and side profiles remained largely unchanged from the previous generation, with a broad, rounded face and expansive sheet metal. A notable update was the vertical accent strip under the mirrors, replacing the old L-shaped trim. The rear saw the most significant change, with thin LED strips replacing the square taillights, integrated into a darker trim element. The Range Rover continued to emphasize its size, especially in the long-wheelbase version, which added eight inches in length. Inside, the cabin was simplified with fewer buttons and a larger touchscreen, maintaining a familiar yet modern look. Premium leather and rich wood trim elements enhanced the luxurious feel, and the solid construction ensured a quiet ride, even on rough roads. The Range Rover's interior quality surpassed competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLS, BMW X7, and Cadillac Escalade, rivaling more expensive Maybach and Bentley models.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar exuded class and elegance, with a design that announced wealth and taste. It retained the tall, tent-like profile of the larger Range Rover but in a sportier, more compact package. The Velar's design featured a sloping roof, wide shoulder crease, and flush door handles, creating a streamlined yet blocky appearance. Special details included taillight lenses with mirrors for depth and air ducts reminiscent of a Bugatti. The R-Dynamic trim added bronze accents and a more aggressive front bumper. Inside, the Velar's cabin was sleek, with high-quality materials and a polished black center stack. The three screens offered sharp graphics and sophisticated layouts, while upper trims featured extra leather and richer colors. Despite its base trim, the Velar maintained a high level of quality and fit and finish.

The 2022 Range Rover offered two powertrains: the base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six and a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, and the P530 with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8, delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The P400 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, impressive for its nearly 6,000-pound weight. The Range Rover handled surprisingly well for its size, with well-managed body roll and a calm, composed driving experience. Rear-wheel steering improved maneuverability, and the Terrain Response system optimized off-road capability. The ride quality was smooth, with minimal wind and road noise, making it one of the most comfortable luxury SUVs available.

The 2022 Velar shared its chassis with the Jaguar F-Pace, offering a lower center of gravity and lighter weight for improved cornering and braking. The base engine was a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four with 247 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The Velar's ride was smooth and controlled, with an optional air suspension providing a plush "magic carpet" experience. The Terrain Response system offered six driving modes, but the Velar's street-focused design limited its off-road capability. The optional 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system was available in two states of tune, with the R-Dynamic HSE offering 395 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain provided high performance while reducing emissions, making the Velar worth its premium price.

The 2022 Range Rover offered ample space in the first two rows, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. Front seats were cushioned for long-distance comfort, with available massage functions. Storage options included two glove boxes, a wireless charging pad, and a large center console bin. The second row provided 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. The split tailgate and air suspension height adjustment aided loading.

The 2022 Velar's interior was tighter, with reduced headroom and visibility due to thick B-pillars and small rear windows. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 49 cubic feet with seats folded. The Velar's design sacrifices practicality for style, with a confusing parking brake control system. The Pivi Pro infotainment system improved usability, with a simplified layout and customizable features. The Velar's interior featured high-quality materials, but the design choices sometimes hindered functionality.

The 2022 Range Rover featured a new 13-inch touchscreen with the Pivi Pro infotainment system, 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 automated parking, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2022 Velar's Pivi Pro system simplified the interface with fewer icons and logical arrangements. Voice activation, a PM2.5 air filter, and a heated windshield were notable features. The navigation system offered traffic detours and commuting suggestions, while the 4x4 app provided off-road measurements. The instrument panel could display full-width maps and reconfigure layouts. Standard features included LED headlights, automatic high beams, and a 12-speaker Meridian stereo.

The 2022 Range Rover lacked crash-test ratings from U.S. agencies but included standard safety features like frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. These features performed well, with the cameras aiding off-road navigation. Some rivals offered additional safety features not present in the Range Rover.

The 2022 Velar scored well in European NCAP tests, though results don't directly translate to U.S. standards. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and traffic sign recognition. Optional features included 360-degree cameras and adaptive cruise control with steering assist.