2022 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover underwent a subtle evolution rather than a radical redesign. Its front and side profiles closely resembled the previous generation, with a broad, rounded face and large, unadorned sheet metal. A vertical accent strip under the mirrors distinguished the new model from its predecessor. The rear view saw the most significant change, with thin LED strips replacing the old square taillights, integrated into a darker trim element. The Range Rover emphasized 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 tablet-like touchscreen, offering a modern look. Premium leather and rich wood trim elements enhanced the interior's quality, providing a luxurious feel akin to high-end fashion accessories. The Range Rover's solid construction and quiet ride on rough roads further underscored its premium luxury status.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition presented a bold, blacked-out aesthetic, particularly in Black Onyx, which eliminated most chrome from the exterior. Despite its new look, the GX retained an old-school charm, with a design reminiscent of its first-generation model. The cabin, while updated, maintained a similar theme to its predecessors. The interior quality was high, with smooth, refined materials and a quiet atmosphere, save for the faint roar of the V8 engine. The GX offered Standard, Premium, and Luxury trims, with the Black Line Special Edition based on the Premium trim. Prices ranged from $56,700 to $66,210, with the Black Line starting at $60,535.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrains: the base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, and the P530 with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine 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 zero to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, impressive for its nearly 6,000-pound weight. The Range Rover's handling was surprisingly agile, with well-managed body roll and standard rear-wheel steering for easier maneuverability. Its off-road capabilities were enhanced by the Terrain Response system, which adjusted the suspension and drivetrain for optimal traction. The Range Rover provided a smooth, quiet ride, making it one of the most comfortable luxury SUVs available.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 featured a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm. This powertrain, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, allowed the GX to tow up to 6,500 pounds. The GX's acceleration to 60 mph took 7.8 seconds, and its fuel economy was estimated at 16 mpg combined. The Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) improved stability and off-road capability, while the GX's ride and handling were refined for on-road comfort. However, the steering was slow and heavy, and the brake pedal was touchy, affecting smooth driving in traffic. The Off-Road Package, available with the Luxury trim, added features like Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control for enhanced off-road performance.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered ample 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 provided power recline and sliding adjustments, with climate controls and USB-C ports. The optional third row, accessible via a button, was suitable for smaller passengers. Cargo space behind the third row was 17.1 cubic feet, expanding to 43.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 93 cubic feet with the second row down. The split tailgate facilitated loading, with buttons to lower the air suspension for easier access.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear visibility. The interior featured physical controls, though some were confusingly placed. The Black Line Special Edition included NuLuxe upholstery, black ash wood trim, and triple-zone climate control. Rear seat access was challenging, but once inside, there was ample legroom. The third row was cramped and reduced cargo space, with a side-swinging tailgate complicating loading. Cargo capacity was 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.7 cubic feet with it folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover featured a new 13-inch touchscreen with the Pivi Pro infotainment system, offering sharp graphics and quick responses. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto complemented the wireless charging pad. The Meridian audio system provided excellent sound quality, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade. Additional tech included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and remote control via a smartphone app.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation. The GX retained a CD player and offered a Lexus app with smartwatch compatibility and Enform connected services. A 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system was available. The infotainment display allowed dual-screen views, and voice recognition was quick and accurate. Intuitive Parking Assist became standard, with optional surround-view and terrain-view cameras.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover lacked crash test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, but it came standard with features like frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and a surround-view camera system. These features performed well, with the cameras proving useful for off-roading.

The 2022 Lexus GX, with no crash-test ratings, offered Lexus Safety System+ as standard, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. However, the GX lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors.