New Lexus RX vs Range Rover Sport: verdict
These plug-in hybrid SUVs both combine great luxury with the potential for low running costs. But which of them does it better?...
Our verdict
As we’ve established, deciding between these two isn’t just a case of looking at the difference in their list prices. If you’re looking for a company car or buying on finance – as most people will be – you could actually have the Range Rover for less each month. That means you’ll be getting an SUV that’s more enjoyable to drive, quieter and more comfortable to sit in. Even if you’re lucky enough to be paying cash, the Range Rover’s glacial depreciation means it’s likely to end up costing you less in the long run.
The main caveat with the Range Rover is Land Rover’s poor reliability record, whereas Lexus is unparalleled in this regard. But if that doesn’t put you off, it’s hard not to be smitten with the Range Rover Sport.
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here
1st – Range Rover Sport
For Better to drive; long electric-only range; plusher interior; more refined; cheaper to buy on a PCP or run as a company car
Against Poor fuel economy when battery is depleted; Land Rover’s reliability record; prciey to buy outright
Recommended options None
What Car? rating 5 stars out of 5
Range Rover Sport review >>
Range Rover Sport deals >>
2nd – Lexus RX
For More standard equipment; lots of safety tech; superior build quality; more rear leg room; bigger boot
Against Restricted rear head room; noisier petrol engine; slower charging speed; grabby brakes
Recommended options None
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Lexus RX review >>
Lexus RX deals >>
Specifications: Lexus RX 450h+ Takumi
Engine 4cyl, 2487cc, petrol, plus two electric motors
Peak power 304bhp (combined)
Peak torque 167lb ft (petrol only)
Gearbox CVT automatic
Acceleration 0-60mph 6.5sec
Acceleration 30-70mph 5.7sec
Top speed 124mph
Braking 30-0mph 9.3m
Braking 70-0mph 49.1m
Noise at 30mph 59.7dB
Noise at 70mph 67.0dB
Kerb weight 2225kg
Tyres (std) 235/45 R21
Fuel tank 55 litres
Test fuel economy 36.6mpg (with battery depleted)
Official fuel economy 235.4mpg (combined)
Test electric range 33 miles
Official electric range 42 miles
CO2 emissions 25g/km
Battery capacity 18.1kWh (usable)
Peak charging rate 6.6kW
Charging time 7kW home wallbox 2hr 45min (0-100%)
Charging time public rapid charger na
Specifications: Range Rover Sport P440e Dynamic SE
Engine 6cyl, 2996cc, turbo, petrol, plus electric motor
Peak power 434bhp (combined)
Peak torque 457lb ft (combined)
Gearbox 8-spd automatic
Acceleration 0-60mph 6.1sec
Acceleration 30-70mph 5.5sec
Top speed 146mph
Braking 30-0mph 9.5m
Braking 70-0mph 49.7m
Noise at 30mph 58.4dB
Noise at 70mph 66.5dB
Kerb weight 2735kg
Tyres (std) 275/50 R21
Fuel tank 72 litres
Test fuel economy 25.8mpg (with battery depleted)
Official fuel economy 338.3mpg (combined)
Test electric range 50 miles
Official electric range 70 miles
CO2 emissions 18g/km
Battery capacity 31.8kWh (usable)
Peak charging rate 50kW
Charging time 7kW home wallbox 5hr (0-100%)
Charging time public rapid charger 40min (0-80%)
Weather conditions Dry, 16deg C
The contenders
Lexus RX 450h+ Takumi with Sonic Copper special metallic paint (£250)
Range Rover Sport P440e Dynamic SE with Varesine Blue metallic paint (£895), SV Bespoke black 22in alloy wheels (£1600), Black Exterior Pack (£1450) and black contrast roof (£950)
