2021 BMW X3 vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, had undergone significant updates by 2020, including the addition of a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. This generation of the X3 was a refined version of its predecessors, offering a luxury level of refinement that BMW had previously struggled to achieve in its smaller SUVs. The X3's exterior mirrored the larger BMW X5, providing a downsized yet sophisticated appearance. Inside, the X3 featured a cold, mechanical interior styling typical of BMW, which, while not as visually appealing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, offered a more functional dashboard. The 2021 X3 was available in several trims, including the sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid, with the high-performance X3 M covered separately. Standard features included 18-inch alloy wheels, synthetic leather upholstery, and a 10.2-inch infotainment system, with numerous options for added luxury.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was crafted by modifying the standard seven-passenger Atlas model, removing the third row, lowering the roofline by 2.3 inches, and shortening the SUV's length by 5.2 inches. These changes resulted in a bold, sporty, and upscale appearance, particularly in the SEL Premium R-Line trim with its 21-inch machined-finish wheels. Despite the reduced cargo space, the interior remained exceptionally roomy for five people, thanks to the unchanged wheelbase. The Atlas Cross Sport offered a variety of wheel options, paint colors, and interior color combinations, contributing to its upscale look. However, the interior's hard, glossy plastic detracted from the overall quality impression, and the lack of lining in storage areas could lead to rattles and noises. The SEL Premium R-Line model had an MSRP of $52,495, slightly less than a similarly equipped standard Atlas, offering a stylish alternative with some cost savings.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains, starting with the sDrive30i and xDrive30i, both equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i featured rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i came with all-wheel drive, providing solid performance for city and highway driving. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 horsepower and brisk acceleration, with a 17-mile electric-only range and a recharge time of about 3.5 hours using a 240-volt Level 2 charger. For those seeking a more exhilarating driving experience, the M40i trim offered a 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, delivering robust acceleration and enhanced cornering abilities. The X3 M performance model, with 473 horsepower, catered to those with a need for speed and family space.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came with two engine options. The standard engine was a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, requiring premium fuel. Despite its reasonable torque delivery at 1,600 rpm, the engine struggled with the Atlas Cross Sport's weight. The available 3.6-liter V6 engine offered a more satisfying 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, with a 5,000-pound towing capacity. Both engines used an eight-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive standard and VW's 4Motion all-wheel drive available. The V6 engine, standard in the SEL Premium R-Line, felt more energetic in the two-row version, though it lacked refinement and averaged 19.2 mpg during testing. The Atlas Cross Sport's suspension and ride quality varied, with a harsh ride at lower speeds and a soft, compliant feel at higher speeds. The vehicle excelled in highway driving, though road noise was more intrusive than expected.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered impressive cargo space, with up to 62.7 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded, and 28.7 cubic feet with the seats in use, making it one of the best in the small luxury SUV segment. A power liftgate was standard, with an optional hands-free version available. The X3 provided ample space for passengers, with generous headroom and legroom in the front row and adult-friendly rear seats. The interior featured real buttons and dials alongside the main touchscreen, enhancing usability for drivers and passengers.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport shared its wheelbase and track width with the larger seven-passenger model, offering exceptional interior space for five adults. The test vehicle included 10-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and a dual-zone automatic climate control system. A panoramic sunroof added to the spacious feel, while rear side-window sunshades protected passengers from sunlight. The Atlas Cross Sport provided ample storage space, though the lack of lining in storage areas could lead to rattling. The cargo area offered plenty of space, with deep wells for additional storage, despite the reduced cargo capacity compared to the seven-passenger model.

The 2021 BMW X3 featured a standard 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, known for its ease of use compared to other luxury systems. The combination of touch operation and the iDrive dial catered to different user preferences. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto available as an option. Additional options included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system. Gesture control was also available, allowing basic controls through hand movements.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE came with Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, featuring an 8-inch display and a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and two USB-C ports. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit, an 8-inch touchscreen with proximity sensing, wireless smartphone connectivity, SiriusXM with 360L, and more USB ports. The upgraded system provided access to Car-Net connected services, including remote start, emergency assistance, and a WiFi hotspot. The SEL Premium R-Line featured a 12-speaker Fender premium sound system, delivering excellent audio quality. However, the user experience could be frustrating, with issues related to touchscreen interaction and voice recognition technology.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning. It also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, headlights that bend with the road, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered a range of safety features, with more available as you moved up the trim levels. Standard features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and an automatic post-collision braking system. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and a low-speed automatic braking system. The SEL trim featured automatic high-beam LED headlights, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and IQ Drive, which included Travel Assist and Emergency Assist. The SEL Premium R-Line included a semi-autonomous Parking Steering Assistant and an Area View 360-degree camera system. The Atlas Cross Sport received favorable crash-test ratings, though not the highest accolades from safety organizations.