2020 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover was renowned for its luxurious yet rugged appeal, tracing its roots back to the original Series I off-roader. Introduced in 1969, the Range Rover combined luxury with robust 4x4 capabilities, a hallmark that defined the brand. By 2012, the current generation had emerged, offering various trims like HSE, Autobiography, and SVAutobiography Dynamic, each available in Standard or Long Wheelbase configurations. Standard features included leather seating, a panoramic sunroof, and the InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system, while higher trims added options like massaging seats and a rear-seat entertainment system.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid presented a sharp, streamlined design that stood out with its familial styling. Despite its sporty appearance, the NX Hybrid shared its platform with the older Toyota RAV4, making it less advanced than its sibling. The F Sport Black Line edition featured unique styling elements like a larger mesh grille and dark-finish wheels. Inside, the NX Hybrid offered a radical design with a stepped center console and sport-inspired features like aluminum pedals and NuLuxe upholstery. However, the material quality felt more mainstream than luxury, with plastic switchgear and trim.

The 2020 Range Rover offered a diverse range of powertrains, starting with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine producing 355 horsepower. The HSE trim increased output to 395 hp, while a turbodiesel V6 delivered 254 hp. The P525 and Autobiography trims featured a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 with 518 hp, and a plug-in hybrid option provided 398 hp. The SV Autobiography Dynamic topped the range with a 557 hp V8. All engines paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, offering impressive off-road capabilities with the Terrain Response System.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid, powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, delivered a combined 194 horsepower. Despite its sporty F Sport styling, the NX Hybrid prioritized fuel efficiency over performance, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds. The sport-tuned suspension improved handling, but the steering felt numb, and the drivetrain struggled with quick acceleration. Drive modes like Eco and Sport offered minimal impact on performance, emphasizing the NX Hybrid's focus on comfort and efficiency.

The 2020 Range Rover offered two wheelbase options, with seating for five or four with optional captain’s chairs. The SWB model provided 70.9 cubic feet of cargo space with seats folded, while the LWB offered 77.5 cubic feet. The unique two-piece power liftgate facilitated easy loading. Interior storage included a convenient center-console compartment and spacious door pockets.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. Front seats offered excellent support, with available heated and ventilated options. The sloping roofline and thick pillars hindered rear visibility, but large mirrors helped. Cargo space was limited to 16.8 cubic feet with seats up and 53.7 cubic feet folded, with a power liftgate available but not standard.

The 2020 Range Rover featured the InControl Touch Pro Duo system with dual touchscreens for navigation, climate, and vehicle settings. While innovative, the system had a learning curve and occasional lag issues. A fully digital instrument panel and optional head-up display enhanced the tech experience.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, with an 8-inch display and a difficult-to-use Remote Touch Interface touchpad. Despite analog controls for climate and audio, the system felt dated, with graphics reminiscent of the 1990s. An eight-speaker audio system was standard, with a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system available on higher trims.

The 2020 Range Rover included standard safety features like low-speed automatic emergency braking and lane-departure warning. Optional features included a 360-degree camera and adaptive cruise control. While comprehensive, some features were optional rather than standard.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating. Standard safety features included the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, with adaptive cruise control and lane-departure warning. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were newly standard, offering a strong safety package for a luxury crossover.