2021 Hyundai Kona vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2021 Hyundai Kona presented a unique and playful design, appealing to younger buyers with its funky small SUV styling. The front featured a busy arrangement of lights and a distinctive grille, while the rear maintained a more subdued crossover appearance. Inside, the Kona continued its playful theme with neat seat patterns and a well-organized interior. The infotainment system was mounted high on the dash, complemented by intuitive physical climate controls, making the compact interior both functional and engaging.

In contrast, the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover underwent an evolutionary redesign, maintaining its broad, rounded face and large, unadorned sheet metal. The most notable change was at the rear, where thin LED strips replaced the old square taillights. The interior was simplified with fewer buttons, featuring a larger tablet-like touchscreen for a modern look. Premium materials, including leather and rich wood trim, enhanced the luxurious feel, while the solid construction ensured a quiet and refined driving experience. The Range Rover's interior quality surpassed that of many competitors, offering a level of luxury comparable to more expensive alternatives.

The 2021 Hyundai Kona offered two powertrain options. The base model featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The optional turbocharged 1.6-liter engine delivered 195 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available for an additional cost. While neither engine was particularly powerful, both provided sufficient power for city and highway driving. The Kona's handling was surprisingly confident, offering an agile and engaging driving experience. Fuel economy varied depending on the configuration, with the base engine and FWD achieving an EPA-estimated 27/33/30 mpg city/highway/combined.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrains. The base P400 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. The P530 upgrade included 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's acceleration was impressive, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, while the V8 provided even more power. The Range Rover's handling was surprisingly agile for its size, with well-managed body roll and a calm, composed driving experience. The standard rear-wheel-steering improved maneuverability, and the Terrain Response system optimized off-road capability without sacrificing ride quality.

The 2021 Hyundai Kona provided decent headroom and legroom for front-seat passengers, with controls and displays easily accessible. The front seats were wide and well-padded but lacked support for spirited driving. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed good headroom but limited legroom, and the large rear door openings facilitated child seat installation. The Kona's cargo space was limited compared to competitors, though small-item storage was generous and conveniently located.

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 available massage functions. Storage options included two glove boxes, a wireless charging pad, and a large center console bin. The second row provided plenty of 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 varied depending on the seating configuration, with a maximum capacity of 93 cubic feet. The split tailgate and adjustable air suspension facilitated loading and unloading.

The 2021 Hyundai Kona came equipped with an eight-inch infotainment system touchscreen, Bluetooth, six speakers, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and USB inputs. Available tech included SiriusXM radio, navigation, wireless device charging, a Harman Kardon audio system, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. The infotainment software was simple, colorful, and responsive, with easy navigation and minimal clicks required to access features.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover featured a larger 13-inch touchscreen with the new Pivi Pro infotainment system, offering sharper graphics and quicker responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, paired with a wireless charging pad. The Meridian audio system delivered impressive sound quality, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade available. Additional tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and remote control and monitoring via a smartphone app.

The 2021 Hyundai Kona earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, lane-following assist, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, a driver attention warning system, and rear occupant alert. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a head-up display, and parking sensors.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, front and rear parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The surround-view cameras were particularly helpful for off-roading. While the Range Rover's safety features were adequate, some competitors offered additional advanced features.