2021 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe was a midsize SUV that defied expectations with its pricing. Upon examining its features, materials, and driving experience, many found it surprising that the Santa Fe didn't cost more. The model offered a choice of two new gasoline engines and a hybrid powertrain, with trim levels ranging from SE to Calligraphy. The exterior featured a redesigned front end with new running lights and grille, while the interior boasted upscale materials and a high-tech digital instrumentation panel. The Calligraphy trim, in particular, impressed with its luxurious interior and panoramic sunroof, though the exterior design was somewhat polarizing.

In contrast, the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover's redesign was more evolutionary, maintaining its iconic broad, rounded face and unadorned sheet metal. The most notable change was at the rear, with new thin LED taillights. Inside, the Range Rover simplified its design with fewer buttons and a larger touchscreen, enhancing its modern appeal. The interior materials were of exceptional quality, with premium leather and rich wood trim, creating a luxurious atmosphere. The Range Rover's solid feel and quiet cabin added to its premium luxury status, making it a standout in its class.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered three new powertrains. The SE and SEL trims came with a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid model combined a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 226 horsepower. The Limited and Calligraphy trims featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, coupled with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Santa Fe's driving modes included Normal, Sport, and Smart, with the latter focusing on fuel efficiency. The turbocharged engine delivered impressive performance, with a fuel economy rating of 24 mpg in combined driving.

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 lb-ft of torque. The P530 upgrade boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine with 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The P400 powertrain provided effortless acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. 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 enhanced maneuverability, making it easy to navigate tight spaces.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered ample interior space for a midsize SUV, with dual-zone automatic climate control and stain-resistant fabric in lower trims. The Calligraphy trim elevated the interior with premium Nappa leather and a suede-like headliner. The SUV provided comfortable seating with power adjustments and heated and ventilated options. The rear seat was spacious, with air-conditioning vents, USB ports, and sunshades. The Santa Fe's cargo space measured 36.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 72.1 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover excelled in interior space, with generous room in the first two rows and excellent visibility. The front seats offered massage functions, and storage options were plentiful. The second row provided ample space for taller passengers, with power adjustments and climate controls. The optional third row was accessible with a button, though headroom was limited for adults. Cargo space measured 17.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 43.1 cubic feet with the seats folded, and up to 93 cubic feet with the second row down. The split tailgate and air suspension height adjustment facilitated loading.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy was equipped with advanced technology, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, surround-view camera system, and an 8.5-inch color head-up display. The infotainment system featured wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with the basic 8-inch screen, while the 10.25-inch screen offered wired versions and enhanced voice recognition. The Harman Kardon surround-sound system provided excellent audio quality. Hyundai's Blue Link connected services were free for three years, offering a range of features, though a WiFi hotspot was absent. The Digital Key and Remote Smart Parking Assist added convenience.

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, complemented by a wireless charging pad. The Meridian audio system delivered impressive sound quality, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade. Additional tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and remote control via a smartphone app.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered an impressive array of safety features, including forward-collision warning with pedestrian, cyclist, and junction turning assistance. Safe Exit Assist and rear-occupant alert systems added to its safety credentials. The Blind-Spot View Monitor and Highway Driving Assist enhanced driver awareness and convenience. The Santa Fe earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS with LED projector headlights.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover came standard with frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and a surround-view camera system. These features performed well, though some rivals offered additional safety technologies. Crash test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS were not available for the Range Rover.