2021 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover had evolved from its rugged origins into a symbol of luxury and sophistication. Initially designed for utility, it transformed over the years into a high-end vehicle with a starting price of $92,000, reaching up to $250,000 with premium options. The test model, priced at $106,715, featured the HSE Westminster special-edition trim. Despite its age, the Range Rover maintained a timeless design with hallmark features like blacked-out pillars and clean lines. Inside, it exuded luxury with an Ivory-color interior and mid-century modern ambiance, though its infotainment system lagged behind newer models.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid presented a bold design with a distinctive front and floating roof appearance. Its styling, while initially polarizing, became more familiar over time. The Highlander Hybrid offered trims ranging from $38,410 to $48,365, with the test vehicle priced at $50,008. It featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen, electronic AWD, and a comfortable interior with leather upholstery. However, some interior elements felt cheap, and the design could be overwhelming with its mix of colors and reflections.

The 2021 Range Rover offered a variety of powertrains, including a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. It featured a flawless eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD with a two-speed transfer case. The SUV excelled in off-road conditions, though the test was limited to a trail in California. The Range Rover provided a smooth, quiet ride with adaptive air suspension, though it required a measured approach on winding roads due to its weight and center of gravity. The EPA rated it at 20 mpg combined, but the test vehicle averaged 18.5 mpg.

The 2021 Highlander Hybrid switched to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a total output of 243 hp, offering 36 mpg combined. It used an "E-CVT" for transmission, with FWD as standard and optional AWD. The test vehicle averaged 31.7 mpg, slightly below expectations. While efficient, the Highlander Hybrid lacked driving excitement, with adequate power but a strained engine sound during acceleration. The steering felt lifeless, and the ride exhibited unwanted body movement. However, it performed well on smooth roads and offered a quiet, comfortable freeway experience.

The Range Rover's air suspension facilitated easier entry and exit, though shorter passengers struggled. The front seats were luxurious, but the second row lacked comfort and adjustability. Storage was limited, with a small refrigerated center console and minimal cargo space of 25 cubic feet, expandable to 59.8 cubic feet. The SUV's kneel function aided loading, but overall space was less than expected for its class.

The Highlander Hybrid provided roomy front accommodations with power-adjustable seats and leather upholstery. The second-row bench increased seating capacity but felt narrow for three adults. The third row was uncomfortable, with limited legroom and headroom. Storage was adequate but less generous than previous models, with a smaller dashboard shelf and center armrest bin. Cargo space measured 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded.

The Range Rover featured a digital instrumentation and infotainment system with three displays, though it was not entirely intuitive. The InControl Touch Pro Duo system required setup to avoid distractions while driving. The SUV included a waterproof Activity Key wristband and an iGuide smartphone app for assistance. Despite its advanced features, the system could be frustrating to use.

The Highlander Hybrid came with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa as standard. The test vehicle had a 12.3-inch touchscreen with an 11-speaker JBL audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons. However, the JBL system's sound quality varied. The Highlander also offered Driver Easy Speak and a video rearview mirror for enhanced convenience.

The Range Rover included essential safety features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assistance, with optional packages for advanced aids. The HSE Westminster Edition had the Drive Pro and Park packages, though the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond. Overall, the safety features were effective, but some advanced technologies were not assessed.

The Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, adding intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available from the LE trim. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance had minor issues but were generally effective. The Highlander received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was expected to achieve a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS.