2021 BMW X7 vs 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was available in a variety of trims, including S, SE, SEL, and SEL Premium, with optional Technology and R-Line packages. Its design was a key selling point, featuring a coupe-like SUV appearance due to its shorter length and lower height compared to the larger Atlas. The SEL Premium trim with the R-Line package was particularly striking, boasting 21-inch wheels and Pure Gray paint that gave it a custom look. Inside, the Atlas Cross Sport offered a visually appealing interior with a Burgundy and Titan Black two-tone color scheme, though it included some hard plastics. The design and materials were well-executed for the segment, with ambient lighting adding a touch of sophistication.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X7 was a standout in its class, offering superior interior quality and technological sophistication. It was available in three versions: the xDrive40i, M50i, and Alpina BX7, with the xDrive40i starting at $74,900. The test vehicle featured 22-inch aluminum wheels, premium leather, and a host of option packages, bringing the total cost to $91,745. The X7's styling was bold, with a massive grille that suited its large SUV frame. Inside, it shared design elements with the X5, offering high-quality materials and intuitive technology. The X7's interior was luxurious, with features like a leather-wrapped dashboard and Alcantara suede headliner, making it a top choice for those seeking prestige and comfort.

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine, producing 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. However, the optional 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivering 276 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, was more suitable for its 4,103-pound curb weight. The V6 engine provided a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and was paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Atlas Cross Sport offered front-wheel drive, with an optional 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. The vehicle's performance was adequate, though it lacked the refinement of a more powerful engine. The 8-speed transmission was generally smooth, but downshifts were delayed in normal mode. The Atlas Cross Sport's handling was decent, with good braking and steering, but it was a thirsty vehicle, averaging 18.7 mpg.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. It included BMW's eBoost mild-hybrid technology, which improved responsiveness and fuel efficiency. Despite the technology, the X7's fuel economy was slightly lower than the previous year, with a combined rating of 21 mpg. The X7 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering ample power. The vehicle's Dynamic Handling Package included features like self-leveling air suspension and M Sport brakes, enhancing its driving dynamics. However, the X7's weight and size sometimes affected its handling, especially on narrow roads. The eight-speed sport automatic transmission was excellent, and the X7 provided a smooth and comfortable ride, with advanced suspension systems ensuring a pleasant driving experience.

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, though smaller than the Atlas, offered a spacious interior. The front seats were large, heated, and ventilated, with numerous power adjustments. The second row was comfortable, with ample legroom and headroom for adults. The vehicle's dual-zone climate control system struggled in direct sunlight, but storage space was plentiful. The Atlas Cross Sport provided 40.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 77.8 cubic feet with them folded down.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was luxurious, featuring heated and ventilated front seats with massaging functions, and premium Merino leather upholstery. The second-row captain's chairs were comfortable, though access could be challenging due to the long rear doors. The X7 offered a four-zone climate control system, with an optional five-zone system for third-row occupants. The third-row seats were surprisingly accommodating for adults. Cargo space was limited behind the third row but expanded to 48.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down, and 90.4 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered three infotainment systems, with the top-trim model featuring an 8-inch touchscreen display. The system supported two Bluetooth device pairings and included Car-Net connected services. The 12-speaker Fender premium sound system provided excellent audio quality. However, the lack of a natural voice recognition system was a drawback, requiring reliance on Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for voice commands.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured the Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and iDrive 7.0 infotainment system, both with 12.3-inch displays. The system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and enhanced SiriusXM 360L. The X7 offered wireless smartphone charging, a natural voice-recognition system, and gesture control. The iDrive system was user-friendly, though it could be distracting while driving. The test vehicle also included a head-up display, though visibility was limited with polarized sunglasses.

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), including a standard automatic post-collision braking system. The SEL Premium R-Line model featured additional safety technologies like road-sign recognition and Traffic Jam Assist. The ADAS operated smoothly, though lane assistance was not preferred. Crash-test results were not available, but the larger Atlas performed well in safety tests.

The 2021 BMW X7 included standard safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The Driving Assistance Professional Package added features like evasive-steering assist and traffic-jam assist. The X7's ADAS was effective, though there were occasional issues with lane-maintenance technology. The Parking Assistance Package offered semi-automated parking assist and a surround-view camera.