2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover underwent a subtle evolution rather than a radical redesign. Its exterior maintained the familiar broad, rounded face and expansive sheet metal, with a notable change being the vertical accent strip under the mirrors. The rear saw the most significant update, replacing square taillights with sleek LED strips integrated into darker trim. Inside, the Range Rover simplified its design with fewer buttons and a larger touchscreen, enhancing its modern appeal. The interior boasted premium leather and rich wood trim, exuding luxury akin to high-end fashion accessories. The Range Rover's solid build and quiet cabin made it a standout in the luxury SUV segment, rivaling even more expensive alternatives.

In contrast, the 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport embraced a "modernist" and "reductive" design philosophy, focusing on clean lines and simplicity. While not flashy, it offered options like Firenze Red paint and 23-inch wheels for those seeking attention. The test vehicle featured a subdued Eiger Gray exterior with a Black Exterior Pack, exuding understated luxury. Inside, the Deep Garnet over Ebony theme with aluminum and shiny black trim created a sophisticated ambiance. The Range Rover Sport came in various specifications, with the SE Dynamic P400 offering a host of features, including heated and ventilated seats, a Cold Climate Pack, and a Technology Pack. Its design highlights included premium LED headlights, flush-mounted door handles, and advanced aerodynamics.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrains: the base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 395 horsepower and 406 lb-ft 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 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, providing smooth power delivery. Despite its size, the Range Rover exhibited surprising agility, with well-managed body roll and standard rear-wheel steering for easy maneuverability. Its off-road capabilities were enhanced by the Terrain Response system, ensuring a smooth ride on various terrains.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport aimed to balance refinement and driver engagement. It featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque in the SE Dynamic model. The PHEV drivetrain in the Autobiography P440e offered 434 hp and 406 lb-ft, with an estimated 51-mile electric range. A 523-hp twin-turbo V8 was available for early-build models. The Range Rover Sport's 395-hp engine accelerated to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. It boasted a 7,716-pound towing capacity and achieved 22.3 mpg on evaluation routes. The new architecture increased torsional stiffness by 35%, while adaptive damping air suspension enhanced ride comfort and handling. Despite its improvements, the Range Rover Sport struggled to match the sportiness of rivals like Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.

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 long-distance comfort, with massage functions available. Storage options included two glove boxes, a wireless charging pad, and a large center console bin. The second row provided generous space for taller passengers, with power recline and sliding adjustments. The optional third row was accessible via a button, though headroom was limited for adults. Cargo space behind the third row was 17.1 cubic feet, expanding to 93 cubic feet with the seats folded. The split tailgate and air suspension height adjustment facilitated loading.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport retained the Command Driving Position, offering a tall, airy feel. The air suspension could kneel for easier entry and exit. Front seats featured Windsor leather, 20-way power adjustments, and available massage functions. The rear seat, though improved, remained tight for taller passengers, with hard front seatback panels. Storage space was decent, with a deep bin under the center armrest. The cargo area offered 31.9 cubic feet, expandable to 53 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. A full-size spare limited underfloor storage, but Land Rover provided a contraption to secure smaller items.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover featured a 13-inch touchscreen with the new 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 delivered impressive sound quality, with a 35-speaker upgrade available. Additional tech included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport came with a 13.7-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with haptic feedback. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and SiriusXM satellite radio. However, the Pivi Pro system proved confusing and frustrating, with difficulties in accessing features. The Meridian audio systems offered up to 29 speakers and 1,430 watts of power, while Active Noise Cancellation enhanced cabin quietness. A wireless charging pad was included, though accessing devices could be challenging.

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

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport included advanced driving assistance systems such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Additional features included automatic high-beam headlights, a driver monitoring system, and a surround-view camera system with ClearSight Ground View. Remote Park Assist allowed for autonomous parking via a smartphone app. However, the adaptive cruise control and steering assist were less responsive and smooth than expected, particularly on freeway curves.