2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport, despite being in its second generation since 2014, continued to impress with its luxurious design and advanced features. The 2018 refresh introduced a dual-screen center console, a hallmark of Land Rover interiors, and the availability of a plug-in hybrid variant. The model offered a range of trims, from the base SE with leather upholstery and a dual-screen infotainment system, to the high-end Autobiography and performance-focused SVR Carbon Edition. Each trim level added layers of luxury and performance, with features like a supercharged V8 engine, panoramic sunroof, and 22-way power-adjustable seats, catering to a variety of preferences.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Explorer offered a diverse lineup with eight models, including the rugged Timberline and luxurious King Ranch trims. The King Ranch, with its 4WD and premium features, stood out with its Del Rio leather seating and King Ranch branding. While the Explorer's design was athletic with a long hood and floating roof effect, its third-row seating was best suited for children. The King Ranch trim provided a mix of quality materials and features like massaging front seats and a hands-free power liftgate, though some interior storage solutions were lacking.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport boasted a variety of powertrains, starting with the P360 mild-hybrid system delivering 355 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque. The HST model offered a P400 powertrain with 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. The plug-in hybrid P400e provided 398 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, while the supercharged V8 in the HSE Dynamic and Autobiography trims produced 518 hp and 461 lb-ft. The SVR models pushed performance further with 575 hp and 516 lb-ft. All models featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, with a towing capacity of up to 7,716 pounds, except the SVR at 6,613 pounds. The Range Rover Sport excelled off-road with its Terrain Response system and height-adjustable air suspension.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains, starting with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid option combined a 3.3-liter V6 with electric assist for 318 hp and 322 lb-ft, offering up to 27 mpg in combined driving. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, standard on ST, Platinum, and King Ranch trims, delivered 400 hp and 415 lb-ft, with a towing capacity of 5,600 pounds. The Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, and the King Ranch trim provided a satisfying driving experience with its powerful V6 engine.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered a maximum of 63.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 31.7 cubic feet with the second row in use. An optional third row increased seating capacity to seven but reduced cargo space to 10.8 cubic feet. The first and second rows provided ample space and comfort, while the third row was best for children.

The 2022 Ford Explorer, particularly in the King Ranch trim, provided comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. The third-row seat was more suitable for children due to limited space. The King Ranch featured triple-zone climate control, massaging front seats, and heated second-row captain’s chairs. Cargo space was 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 47.9 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87.8 cubic feet with both rear rows down. Interior storage was limited, but the hands-free power liftgate added convenience.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport featured a dual-screen center console, with the lower screen managing climate controls and vehicle settings, and the upper screen handling infotainment. While the system had a learning curve, it included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a real volume button for convenience.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered the Sync 3 infotainment system with either an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The King Ranch trim included FordPass Connect, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the Sync 3 system showed limitations in voice recognition and navigation, highlighting the need for an upgrade to Sync 4. Additional tech included a 12.3-inch digital display and Active Park Assist 2.0.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport came with standard driver assistance features like forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring, which were standard on some less expensive vehicles.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It came standard with Ford Co-Pilot360, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. The Explorer also featured post-collision braking and MyKey programmable functions, enhancing safety for families.