2021 Audi Q3 vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

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 delivered on the latter. Inside, the cabin echoed a mechanical, modern aesthetic with a dash design that framed the center touchscreen. When the interior debuted in 2019, it was a standout, but by 2021, it felt less unique as Volkswagen's designs caught up. Despite this, the Q3's cabin remained modern and refined.

In contrast, the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover's redesign was more evolutionary than revolutionary. Its broad, rounded face and large expanses of sheet metal maintained a familiar look, with subtle changes like a vertical accent strip under the mirrors. The rear saw the most significant update with thin LED strips replacing square taillights. The interior was simplified with fewer buttons, featuring a larger touchscreen for a modern look. Premium materials and a solid feel underscored its luxury, offering a refined experience that surpassed many competitors.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came 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, enhancing throttle response and transmission mapping. The Q3's handling was nimble, offering a comfortable ride without compromising engagement.

The 2022 Range Rover offered two powertrains: a base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six and a mild hybrid system producing 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, and an optional P530 with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD. The P400 provided effortless acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. Despite its size, the Range Rover handled well, with rear-wheel steering aiding maneuverability and off-road capability enhanced by the Terrain Response system.

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 passenger space compensated with comfortable front seats and impressive rear headroom and legroom, accommodating four passengers comfortably.

The 2022 Range Rover excelled in space, with generous room in the first two rows and excellent visibility. Front seats offered long-distance comfort with massage functions, while the second row provided ample space and power adjustments. The optional third row was less spacious but suitable for smaller passengers. Cargo space varied from 17.1 cubic feet behind the third row to 93 cubic feet with seats folded. The split tailgate and adjustable air suspension facilitated loading.

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

The 2022 Range Rover boasted a 13-inch touchscreen with the new Pivi Pro system, offering sharper graphics and quicker responses. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto complemented the wireless charging pad. The Meridian audio system provided excellent sound, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade. Additional tech included Amazon Alexa integration, remote parking, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

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

The 2022 Range Rover lacked crash test ratings but included standard safety features like frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and a surround-view camera system. These features performed well, with the cameras aiding off-road navigation.