2022 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover underwent a subtle evolution rather than a radical redesign. Its front and side profiles remained largely unchanged from the previous generation, with a broad, rounded face and expansive sheet metal. A notable update was the vertical accent strip under the mirrors, replacing the old L-shaped trim. The rear of the Range Rover saw the most significant change, with thin LED strips replacing the square taillights, integrated into a darker trim element. The SUV continued to emphasize its size, especially in the long-wheelbase version, which added eight inches in length. Inside, the Range Rover's cabin was simplified with fewer buttons and a larger touchscreen, offering a modern look. Premium leather and rich wood trim elements adorned the interior, providing a luxurious feel. The Range Rover's solid build and quiet cabin further enhanced its premium appeal, making it a standout in the luxury SUV segment.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT trim did not impress with its cosmetic enhancements, such as side steps that impeded entry and exit. The XRT was one of five gasoline trims, priced between the SE/SEL and the turbocharged Limited/Calligraphy trims. It included features from the SEL and its Convenience Package, with options for FWD or AWD. The test vehicle, in Portofino Gray with a black cloth interior, lacked visual contrast. Despite this, the interior offered thoughtful design and quality for its price point. The Santa Fe XRT's cabin was comfortable, with patterns and brightwork enhancing the experience. While not as upscale as higher trims, it provided good value. The XRT's ride and handling were composed, with excellent suspension isolation and a quiet highway experience. However, the XRT's off-road capabilities were limited, and the cosmetic treatment did not enhance its performance.

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 boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine, delivering 523 hp 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 Land Rover estimating a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds, impressive for an SUV weighing nearly 6,000 pounds. The Range Rover's handling was surprisingly agile, with well-managed body roll and standard rear-wheel steering for sharp turns. Its off-road capabilities were enhanced by the Terrain Response system, which adjusted the suspension and drivetrain for optimal traction. The Range Rover's ride quality was smooth, with minimal wind and road noise, making it one of the most comfortable luxury SUVs available.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. While not particularly powerful, it was adequate for reaching freeway speeds and cruising comfortably. An eight-speed automatic transmission handled shifting, with pushbutton controls for gear selection. The Santa Fe offered Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow driving modes, with the ability to lock the AWD system for maximum traction. The XRT's engine struggled on hills and mountain grades, with a noticeable delay in responsiveness. The test vehicle averaged 22.3 mpg, slightly below the EPA rating of 24 mpg. The Santa Fe's ride and handling were composed, with excellent suspension isolation and a quiet highway experience. While the XRT's off-road capabilities were limited, the Santa Fe was more capable on terrain than it appeared.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover provided 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 offered generous 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 behind the third row was 17.1 cubic feet, expanding to 43.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 93 cubic feet with the second row down. The split tailgate facilitated loading, with buttons to lower the air suspension for easier access.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT featured a dual-zone automatic climate control system with a Clean Air ionizer. The eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat ensured comfort, though the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment. Rear-seat accommodations were excellent, with ample room for a family of four. The Santa Fe offered 36.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, expanding to 72.1 cubic feet with the rear seatbacks folded. The Smart Tailgate feature allowed hands-free access, though it could open unintentionally. Storage compartments were adequate, with a tray under the control bridge and a wireless charging slot.

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

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT came with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Bluetooth, satellite radio, and Bluelink connected services. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and clean graphics. The Santa Fe XRT also featured digital key technology, though it was limited to Android devices. The Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system was a thoughtful addition, alerting drivers when traffic ahead started moving.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover came standard with frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. While crash test results were unavailable, these features performed well during testing.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT was equipped with Hyundai SmartSense, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Santa Fe earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance score.