2021 Audi Q3 vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar

The 2021 Audi Q3 showcased a design that embraced the era of "postmodern automotive styling." Its massive corporate grille complemented the stout, chunky styling, suggesting utility and dynamic handling, though it primarily excelled in the latter. Inside, the cabin echoed a mechanical, modern aesthetic, with a dash design that highlighted the center touchscreen. While the interior was once a standout, advancements by Volkswagen meant the Q3's cabin felt modern and refined, but not as unique.

In contrast, the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar exuded class and elegance, making a statement of wealth and taste. Its design cleverly referenced the larger Range Rover's profile, scaling it into a sporty package with unmistakable proportions. The Velar's exterior featured subtle adjustments, like a sloping roof and flush door handles, creating a streamlined yet blocky appearance. Special details, such as taillight lenses with depth illusions and aggressive R-Dynamic trim accents, enhanced its visual appeal.

The 2021 Audi Q3 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive. The S-Line trim offered a more powerful version with 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided lively performance, especially in Sport mode, which enhanced throttle response and transmission mapping. The Q3's handling was nimble, offering a comfortable ride without compromising engagement.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar shared its chassis with the Jaguar F-Pace, resulting in improved handling and steering. Its base engine, a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four, delivered 247 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. The Velar's optional air suspension provided a plush ride, while the Terrain Response system offered six driving modes. The optional 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, paired with a mild-hybrid system, delivered up to 395 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque, enhancing performance and efficiency.

The 2021 Audi Q3 offered 48 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 23.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats. While the cargo space was subpar for its class, the Q3 compensated with ample passenger space, providing comfortable seating for up to five, with impressive headroom and legroom.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar, though stylish, sacrificed interior space. It offered 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 49 cubic feet with them folded. The Velar's design limited headroom and visibility, and its unconventional parking brake control was a notable drawback. However, the Pivi Pro infotainment system improved usability with a simplified layout and useful features.

The 2021 Audi Q3 featured an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with the MMI system, offering standard Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay. An upgraded 10.1-inch touchscreen with navigation was available, along with features like wireless charging and a Bang & Olufsen audio system. The Audi Virtual Cockpit provided a customizable digital display.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar's Pivi Pro system impressed with its reliability and user-friendly interface. It offered voice activation, a PM2.5 air filter, and advanced navigation features. The instrument panel could display full-width maps, and the optional adaptive cruise control included steering assist. Standard features included LED headlights and a 12-speaker Meridian stereo.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came with Audi Pre Sense and Pre Sense Front, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar scored well in European NCAP tests, though U.S. ratings were unavailable. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included 360-degree cameras and adaptive cruise control with steering assist.