2023 Kia Sportage 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 similar to the previous generation, with a broad, rounded face and large, unadorned metal surfaces. A notable change was the vertical accent strip under the mirrors, replacing the old L-shaped trim. The rear saw the most significant update, with thin LED strips replacing the square taillights, integrated into a darker trim. Inside, the Range Rover featured a simplified design with fewer buttons, a larger touchscreen, and premium materials like leather and wood trim, offering a luxurious feel.

The 2023 Kia Sportage arrived with a completely redesigned look, drawing comparisons to French automakers. Its styling was exciting and exotic, featuring standout elements like boomerang-shaped daytime running lights and textured metal trim on the D Pillar. The Sportage offered seven trim levels, including new X-Line and X-Pro options. Inside, Kia replaced leather with durable synthetic leather, maintaining a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob in higher trims. The cabin featured a large display, though some controls were overcomplicated, impacting usability.

The 2022 Range Rover offered two powertrains: a P400 turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, and a P530 twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft. Both engines paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and 4WD. The P400 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, impressive for its size. Handling was agile for a large SUV, with well-managed body roll and standard rear-wheel steering aiding maneuverability. The Range Rover excelled off-road with its Terrain Response system, maintaining a smooth, quiet ride.

The 2023 Kia Sportage introduced a 2.5-liter inline-four engine producing 187 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Available in FWD and AWD, it offered slightly more power and efficiency than its predecessor. However, the lack of a turbocharged engine option limited its performance. The X-Line and X-Pro trims added rugged visual cues and off-road features like all-terrain tires and specific drive modes. The Sportage handled off-road conditions well, though its naturally aspirated engine struggled to match turbocharged competitors.

The 2022 Range Rover provided ample space in the first two rows, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. Front seats offered comfort and massage functions, while the second row featured power adjustments and climate controls. The optional third row was less spacious, suitable for smaller passengers. Cargo space was limited behind the third row but expanded significantly with seats folded. A split tailgate and adjustable air suspension aided loading.

The 2023 Sportage, larger than its predecessor, offered impressive rear-seat legroom and cargo space. The front featured typical storage options, though technology controls were overcomplicated. The HVAC system used touch-sensitive buttons with dual functionality, which could be frustrating. Despite this, the Sportage provided a spacious and practical interior for its class.

The 2022 Range Rover featured a 13-inch touchscreen with the new Pivi Pro infotainment system, offering sharp graphics and quick responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, complemented by a wireless charging pad. The Meridian audio system delivered excellent sound, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade. Additional tech included Amazon Alexa, remote parking, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2023 Sportage boasted a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a panoramic driver display in higher trims. However, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were wired on top trims, while the base model offered wireless connectivity. The interface had similar-looking icons, complicating navigation. Standard tech included wireless charging, rear USB-C ports, and a Harman Kardon stereo in higher trims.

The 2022 Range Rover came with standard safety features like frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. While crash test results were unavailable, its safety features performed well. Some rivals offered additional safety tech not present in the Range Rover.

The 2023 Sportage included standard collision-avoidance tech like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The SX Prestige and X-Pro Prestige trims offered advanced safety features like a blind-view monitor. Crash test results were not yet available.