2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was a departure from the trend of sharply creased designs, opting instead for a smooth and sleek appearance that exuded a sense of motion even when stationary. While it didn't boast the aggressive styling of some competitors, it took Mazda's familiar design language in a more refined direction. The exterior features varied slightly across trim levels, with the base GX offering LED headlights, 17-inch wheels, and a rear roof spoiler. Higher trims like the GS and GT added more luxurious touches such as leatherette seats, a power liftgate, and larger wheels, culminating in the Signature model, which featured premium materials like Caturra Brown Nappa leather and genuine wood trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas maintained its bold and boxy design, with minor updates from the previous year. The Execline trim, which was the top-tier model in Canada, featured R-Line design elements and 21-inch alloy wheels that enhanced its upscale look. The interior was praised for its simplicity and premium flair, though some materials felt low-cost, with hard plastics detracting from the overall quality. Despite this, the Atlas offered a spacious and comfortable cabin, with ample room for passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The base engine was a 2.5-litre four-cylinder producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The GT and Signature trims offered a more powerful 250-hp turbocharged 2.5-litre engine with 320 lb-ft of torque, providing a more spirited driving experience. Fuel efficiency varied, with the most economical version achieving 9.7 L/100 km in the city and 7.8 on the highway. The turbocharged models were slightly less efficient but still competitive within the segment. The CX-5 was known for its engaging driving dynamics, though its stiff suspension could be a drawback for those seeking a smoother ride.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and a 3.6-litre V6. The turbo-four produced 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, requiring premium fuel for optimal performance. The V6, standard on the Execline trim, delivered 276 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kilograms. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The Atlas's fuel consumption was higher than the CX-5, with the V6 averaging 12.2 L/100 km in combined driving. While the Atlas offered various driving modes and a capable AWD system, its performance was hindered by the V6's lack of refinement and power.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 provided a comfortable and stylish interior, though rear legroom was limited for taller passengers. It featured straightforward climate controls and a larger shifter that took up more space than modern electronic alternatives. Cargo space was below average for the segment, with 875 litres behind the second row and 1,687 litres with the seats folded. Despite these limitations, the CX-5's design and materials were generally well-received.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space and comfort, accommodating seven passengers with ease. The step-in height was low, and the test vehicle included rear side-window sunshades. The Atlas offered numerous storage areas, though many were unlined, leading to unwanted noise. Cargo space was exceptional, with 583 litres behind the third row, 1,572 litres with the third row folded, and 2,741 litres with the second row down, surpassing competitors like the Nissan Armada.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, though its operating system was criticized for being outdated and difficult to use. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the lack of intuitive controls detracted from the overall experience. The infotainment system's positioning made it challenging for drivers and passengers to reach.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas featured the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit as standard, with an 8-inch display on lower trims and a 10.25-inch version on higher trims. The Trendline trim had a basic 6.5-inch touchscreen, while other trims included the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless connectivity, and Car-Net connected services. Despite these features, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and a cumbersome process for tuning the radio. Voice recognition was also hit-and-miss, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto a more reliable option.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. Optional features included a head-up display and a surround-view camera system. The CX-5 earned high safety ratings, receiving a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Mazda offered a three-year/unlimited kilometre new vehicle warranty and a five-year/unlimited kilometre powertrain warranty.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas also offered an extensive list of safety features, such as automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, and Side Assist. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. However, some driver assistance features were problematic, with Lane Assist misinterpreting road markings. The Atlas received decent crash-test ratings but did not earn a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. The NHTSA awarded it four-star ratings for frontal-impact tests.