2022 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2021 Honda Pilot

The 2021 Honda Pilot aimed to balance styling with reliability, safety, comfort, and performance. Despite efforts to enhance its rugged appearance with a 2019 refresh and a 2020 Black Edition, the exterior design remained divisive. Available in five trims in Canada, the Pilot offered standard all-wheel drive and a range of features, with the Black Edition standing out for its exclusive black leather upholstery and red accents. However, the interior's resemblance to a minivan and its drab exterior design were less appealing.

In contrast, the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover evolved its design subtly, maintaining its broad, rounded face and unadorned sheet metal. The most notable change was the rear, with new thin LED taillights. The interior was simplified, featuring a larger touchscreen and fewer buttons, while maintaining a luxurious feel with premium materials. The Range Rover emphasized its size and presence, offering a refined interior that rivaled high-end luxury SUVs.

The 2021 Honda Pilot featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and a torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system. The Pilot offered a smooth ride and athletic handling, aided by its suspension and 20-inch alloy wheels. Fuel efficiency was reasonable, with an average of 10.9 L/100 km. However, its off-road capability was limited by modest ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2022 Range Rover offered two powertrains: a base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six producing 395 horsepower and a P530 with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 delivering 523 horsepower. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. The Range Rover excelled in acceleration and handling, with rear-wheel steering enhancing maneuverability. Its off-road capabilities were impressive, supported by the Terrain Response system, while maintaining a smooth and quiet ride.

The 2021 Honda Pilot provided ample space for families, seating up to eight with comfortable front seats and optional second-row captain’s chairs. Storage was abundant, with a large centre console and various compartments. Cargo space was generous, offering up to 3,092 litres with seats folded. However, third-row comfort was limited for adults.

The 2022 Range Rover boasted spacious first and second rows, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. Front seats offered massage functions, and storage was plentiful. The second row accommodated taller passengers comfortably, while the optional third row was suitable for smaller passengers. Cargo space was limited behind the third row but expanded significantly with seats folded. The split tailgate and adjustable suspension height facilitated loading.

The 2021 Honda Pilot featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims added navigation, wireless charging, and a premium audio system. The infotainment system was adequate but lacked some modern conveniences, and voice recognition required specific prompts.

The 2022 Range Rover introduced a 13-inch touchscreen with the Pivi Pro system, offering sharper graphics and quicker responses. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an optional 35-speaker Meridian sound system. The infotainment system was advanced, though the screen's placement could be distracting.

The 2021 Honda Pilot came with Honda Sensing, including adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. While effective, the system lacked refinement. It received favourable crash-test ratings, with some areas for improvement.

The 2022 Range Rover included standard safety features like collision warning and adaptive cruise control. While crash-test results were unavailable, the features performed well. However, some advanced safety technologies found in rivals were missing.