2022 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover underwent a subtle evolution rather than a radical redesign. Its front and side profiles remained largely unchanged, maintaining the broad, rounded face and expansive sheet metal. A notable update was the vertical accent strip under the mirrors, replacing the previous L-shaped trim. The rear saw the most significant change, with thin LED strips replacing the old square taillights, integrated into a darker trim element. The Range Rover continued to emphasize its size, especially in the long-wheelbase version, which added eight inches in length. Inside, the cabin was simplified with fewer buttons and a larger tablet-like touchscreen, offering a modern look. Premium leather and rich wood trim elements enhanced the luxurious feel, and the solid construction ensured a quiet, creak-free ride even on rough roads.

The 2022 Lexus RX maintained its modern and sporty design, with sharp character lines and angular features that stopped just short of excess. The RX offered a range of paint options, including new additions like Cloudburst Gray and Iridium. The F Sport trim stood out with performance-oriented features like 20-inch wheels and a unique front fascia. Inside, the RX cabin exuded luxury, with nearly a dozen color combinations available. The F Sport trim added sporty elements like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. However, the center stack felt dated, and the abundance of buttons was a drawback. Comfort was a mixed bag, with the NuLuxe seats in the F Sport trim lacking cushioning and lumbar support. The limited-edition Black Line trim added high-end looks with exclusive black-colored elements.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrains: the base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, and the P530 with 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 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, impressive for its nearly 6,000-pound weight. The Range Rover's handling was surprisingly agile, with well-managed body roll and standard rear-wheel-steering for easy maneuverability. Off-road capability was enhanced by the Terrain Response system, and the ride quality was smooth and quiet.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the hybrid RX 450h added electric motors for a combined 308 hp. All RX models had an eight-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive standard on the RX 350 and all-wheel drive available. Despite the F Sport designation, the RX lacked sporty performance, with a hum rather than a growl from the engine and unimpressive acceleration. The F Sport Handling package added features like an adaptive variable suspension and Sport+ drive mode, but changes in driving dynamics were minimal. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, with a compliant ride and isolated road noise. Fuel efficiency was competitive, with the RX 350 returning 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, while the RX 450h achieved 30 mpg combined.

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 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 generous space for taller passengers, with power recline and sliding adjustments. The optional third row was accessible with a button, though headroom was limited for adults. Cargo space was 17.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 43.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 93 cubic feet with both rear rows down. The split tailgate and air suspension height adjustment facilitated loading.

The standard two-row Lexus RX had 99.8 cubic feet of passenger volume, comfortably seating four adults. Headroom was 39.4 inches in the front and 39.1 inches in the rear, with 44.1 inches of front legroom and 38.0 inches in the back. The three-row L models had limited cargo space, with 7.45 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 23.03 cubic feet with the third row down, and up to 58.48 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. The rear seats did not fold completely flat, and the high load-in height was a drawback. Interior features included a smartphone slot, adjustable-height cup holder, and a flat-bottomed cargo net.

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 delivered impressive sound quality, with a 35-speaker upgrade available. Other tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and remote control via a smartphone app.

The Lexus RX came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch version available. The screen's positioning was ergonomically unfriendly, with a lip obstructing access. Alternatives included voice commands and a touchpad, the latter being difficult to use. The RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, wireless charging, Amazon Alexa compatibility, a WiFi hotspot, and premium audio systems. The Lexus App allowed for remote engine start and vehicle settings.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover came standard with frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, a blind-spot monitor, lane-keep assist, and a surround-view camera system. These features performed well, with the surround-view cameras being particularly helpful off-road. However, some rivals offered additional safety features.

The Lexus Safety System 2.0+ was standard on the 2022 Lexus RX, including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, and a pre-collision system. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Lexus Enform Safety Connect. The RX was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS with optional triple-beam LED headlights, but missed the top-tier "plus" designation. The NHTSA gave it four stars overall, with five stars in side crash tests.