2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 showcased a blend of Nissan Armada and Infiniti design elements, with its body-on-frame construction reminiscent of the Armada. Its profile, marked by a distinctive roofline and rear window curve, was shared with its Nissan sibling, while the front-end styling was distinctly Infiniti, featuring a grille and headlight design that lent the SUV an assertive yet not overly aggressive appearance. Standard LED lighting and large alloy wheels added to its luxury appeal, though the interior, despite its wood trim and leather upholstery, felt more Nissan than Infiniti, potentially disappointing those seeking exclusivity.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport presented a bold, sporty look, especially in the Execline trim with its 21-inch machined-finish wheels. By removing the third row and lowering the roofline, Volkswagen created a coupe-like appearance, though this design choice reduced cargo space. The interior was spacious, with generous legroom for five adults, and offered a range of colour combinations that enhanced its upscale feel. However, the use of hard, glossy plastics detracted from the overall quality impression, and the lack of lining in storage areas could lead to rattles and noise.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a 5.6-litre V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. This setup provided ample power for highway overtaking, though the transmission shifts were less smooth than desired. The body-on-frame construction, combined with independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control on the ProACTIVE models, offered a comfortable ride, albeit with some detectable shudders over bumps. The QX80 excelled in towing, with a capacity of 3,855 kilograms, but its size and wheel-and-tire combinations limited its off-road prowess.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and a 3.6-litre V6 producing 276 horsepower. The V6, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW’s 4Motion AWD system, provided a more satisfying driving experience, though it was less fuel-efficient. The Atlas Cross Sport’s suspension struggled with urban ride quality, feeling harsh at low speeds and too soft at higher speeds. Despite this, the vehicle performed well on highways, where the V6 was most efficient, though road noise was more intrusive than expected.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 offered a seven-seat configuration with second-row captain’s chairs, or an eight-seat option on the ProACTIVE grade. While passenger space was competitive, it wasn’t class-leading, and the cargo space was limited compared to rivals like the Cadillac Escalade. The interior featured power-adjustable front seats, though they lacked thigh support, and a centre console with limited storage. The power liftgate and folding third row facilitated cargo handling, but the overall storage solutions were not as practical as they could be.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, sharing its wheelbase with the larger Atlas, provided exceptional interior space for five adults, with generous rear legroom and numerous storage options. The test vehicle featured power-adjustable front seats, heated rear seats, and a panoramic sunroof, enhancing comfort. The cargo area, though reduced compared to the seven-passenger model, offered ample space for luggage and other items, with additional storage under the load floor. However, the lack of lining in storage areas could lead to noise from items moving around.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 came equipped with the Infiniti InTouch dual-screen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 17-speaker Bose audio system. While the system offered a range of features, the user interface was not intuitive, requiring trial and error to navigate. The Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor added convenience and safety, but the overall infotainment experience was hindered by the small, distant screens and complex controls.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport featured the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit and an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the technology offered essential connectivity, the user experience was often frustrating, with issues in touchscreen interaction and voice recognition. The Execline trim included a 12-speaker Fender audio system, which delivered impressive sound quality. However, the overall infotainment system was best utilized through smartphone integration to avoid aggravation.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The ProACTIVE grade added advanced features like Backup Collision Intervention. While these features were common in mainstream SUVs, Infiniti’s inclusion of many as standard was notable.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered a comprehensive suite of safety features across its trims, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Execline trim added semi-autonomous Park Assist and an Area View 360-degree camera system. While Travel Assist provided accurate assistance, it occasionally lacked refinement. The Atlas Cross Sport received favourable crash-test ratings, though not the highest accolades from safety organizations.