2021 Genesis GV80 vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis's first SUV, was a fresh design that managed to balance innovation with the brand's emerging signature style. It featured a long hood, short front overhang, and a distinctive grille with a diamond mesh and the Genesis flying "G" badge. The SUV's design was further enhanced by the "Quad Lamp" LED headlight array and large aluminum-alloy wheels, which varied in size depending on the trim level. The interior was a testament to luxury, with a sleek dashboard, minimalistic controls, and high-quality materials like real wood, metal, and leather. The GV80's cabin was both spacious and technologically advanced, offering a 14.5-inch high-definition display and a sophisticated centre console.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was a sportier, more upscale version of the standard Atlas, achieved by removing the third row and lowering the roofline. This design change resulted in a bold appearance, especially in the Execline trim with 21-inch wheels. The interior was spacious, accommodating five adults comfortably, and featured a range of amenities like heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and ample storage space. However, the use of hard, glossy plastics in the cabin detracted from the overall quality feel. Despite this, the Atlas Cross Sport offered a stylish and practical option for those seeking a roomy SUV with a sporty edge.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 with 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The GV80's ride was enhanced by an electronically controlled suspension with road preview on the 3.5T models, providing a smooth driving experience. The 2.5T engine was lively but could feel strained under pressure, while the 3.5T was smoother and more powerful, aided by active noise cancellation. Fuel consumption for the 2.5T was rated at 11.3 L/100 km city and 9.5 highway, while the 3.5T was slightly higher at 12.9 city and 10.4 highway.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport also offered two engine choices: a standard 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 3.6-litre V6 producing 276 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW's 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. The V6 engine provided a more satisfying driving experience, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. However, the ride quality was inconsistent, with the suspension feeling too firm at low speeds and too soft at higher speeds. The V6's fuel economy was rated at 12.2 L/100 km combined, slightly higher than the turbo-four.

The 2021 Genesis GV80's interior was a blend of technology and luxury, featuring a rotary gear selector, a circular multimedia controller, and capacitive touch buttons for the HVAC system. The second row was spacious, with available power seats and window shades, while the third row was standard on 3.5T models, offering a power-fold function. The GV80's interior was designed for comfort and convenience, with a focus on high-quality materials and advanced technology.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered a roomy interior, with generous rear legroom and a range of comfort features like 10-way power-adjustable front seats, heated rear seats, and a dual-zone climate control system. The cargo area was spacious, with additional storage under the load floor, although the use of unlined storage areas could lead to rattling noises. Despite its shorter length and lower roofline, the Atlas Cross Sport provided ample space for passengers and cargo.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sixth-generation Genesis UX infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD touchscreen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered cloud connectivity, over-the-air updates, and a digital key function for Android users. The GV80 also came with Genesis Connected Services, providing a range of remote and safety features. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims, along with a premium Lexicon audio system.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came with a digital cockpit and an 8-inch touchscreen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth pairing, and wireless charging. The infotainment system included Car-Net remote connectivity, although user interaction could be frustrating. The Execline trim featured a 12-speaker Fender audio system, providing excellent sound quality for the price.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 received top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It came with 10 airbags, a range of driver assistance features, and adaptive cruise control with machine learning. The GV80 also offered advanced parking assist features, enhancing its safety credentials.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added features like adaptive LED headlights and a semi-autonomous Park Assist system. While the Atlas Cross Sport received favourable crash-test ratings, it did not achieve the highest accolades from safety organizations.