2023 Lexus RX vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover underwent a subtle evolution rather than a radical redesign. Its front and side profiles remained largely unchanged from the previous generation, characterized by a broad, rounded face and expansive, unadorned sheet metal. A notable update was the vertical accent strip under the mirrors, replacing the old L-shaped trim. The rear of the new Range Rover saw the most significant transformation, with the introduction of thin LED taillights integrated into a darker trim element, replacing the previous square taillights. Inside, the Range Rover's cabin was simplified with fewer buttons and a larger tablet-like touchscreen, enhancing its modern appeal. The interior boasted premium materials, including high-quality leather and rich wood trim, contributing to a luxurious atmosphere.

The 2023 Lexus RX presented a fresh yet familiar design, with a shorter height, broader width, and longer wheelbase, maintaining the same overall length as its predecessor. The reduction in rear overhang and softer design lines gave it a smaller appearance. The front featured a well-integrated spindle-style grille with a modern mesh texture, while the rear showcased a light-blade taillight design and sporty bumper. Inside, the RX offered a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. The cabin exuded quality, with options for NuLuxe artificial leather or genuine leather, and various trim materials. The RX 350 was available in multiple trims, including hybrid options, providing versatility for different preferences.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrain options. The base P400 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid component, producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. The P530 upgrade boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine, delivering 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet 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's handling was surprisingly agile, with well-managed body roll and standard rear-wheel steering for maneuverability. It excelled in off-road capability, aided by the Terrain Response system, while maintaining a smooth and quiet ride.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX 350 Luxury trim displayed occasional torque steer and excess body motion over uneven pavement, while the F Sport Handling trim felt more secure with its adaptive damping suspension. The RX 350 FWD accelerated to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, and the AWD version in 7.2 seconds. Fuel economy was expected to average 25 mpg for the FWD and 24 mpg for the AWD, though real-world results were slightly lower. The RX 350 offered a satisfying driving experience, with the F Sport Handling trim providing enhanced stability and upgraded brakes.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover provided 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 offered power recline and sliding adjustments, with climate controls and USB-C ports. 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 43.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 93 cubic feet with the second row down. A split tailgate and adjustable air suspension aided in loading cargo.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 offered comfortable seating, with the F Sport Handling package providing sport seat bolsters for added support. The RX 350 Luxury trim featured semi-aniline leather upholstery, ten-way power-adjustable front seats, and a heated wood-and-leather steering wheel. The F Sport Handling trim included NuLuxe simulated leather seats and a thick-rimmed steering wheel. The back seat provided good leg support and legroom, though taller passengers might find headroom tight. Storage areas were useful, and cargo space improved over the previous generation, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seat folded.

The 2022 Land Rover 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. Additional tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2023 Lexus RX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system, available with a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connected services. Drive Connect offered Intelligent Assistant voice recognition, though it occasionally provided inaccurate results. User profiles allowed for personalized settings, and streaming services like Apple Music were available. The Mark Levinson premium sound system required tone adjustments for optimal sound. Digital instrumentation, Digital Latch door handles, and a color head-up display were available, though the HUD was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover came standard with frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. These features performed well, though some rivals offered additional safety technologies.

The 2023 Lexus RX included Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, intersection turn assistance, and curve speed-reduction. New semi-autonomous driving technologies included Proactive Driving Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Advanced Park Assist. LSS+ 3.0 was generally impressive, though some features, like curve-speed reduction, were less effective. The driver monitoring system required attention, and the HUD was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses.