2021 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek was a clever adaptation of the Impreza hatchback, designed to capture the growing interest in crossovers. By incorporating rugged aesthetics, standard all-wheel drive (AWD), and a higher driving position, Subaru successfully transformed the Impreza into a more SUV-like vehicle. The Crosstrek's black body cladding, unique 17-inch wheels, and increased ground clearance of 8.7 inches gave it a distinct presence. Despite its SUV-like appearance, the Crosstrek retained the Impreza's functional yet plain interior, with some attempts at flair through color accents and trim pieces. The Crosstrek's vibrant color options, like Plasma Yellow Pearl, added to its appeal.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas maintained its bold and boxy design, with minor updates from the previous year. The Atlas offered a simplified lineup with more standard features across its trims. The SEL Premium R-Line trim, in particular, showcased upscale R-Line design elements, including 21-inch wheels that complemented its exaggerated fenders. Inside, the Atlas boasted a spacious and comfortable cabin, though some materials felt low-cost. Despite its size, the Atlas was easy to maneuver, thanks to its squared-off hood and advanced parking assist technologies. However, the ride quality was mixed, with a busy ride on certain surfaces and noticeable road noise.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek offered two gasoline engine options. The Sport and Limited trims featured a 2.5-liter boxer-four engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, while the Base and Premium trims retained the 2.0-liter engine with 152 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque. The Crosstrek's boxer engine design provided a lower center of gravity, enhancing handling, although the raised ride height somewhat negated this benefit. A six-speed manual transmission was standard on Base and Premium trims, with a CVT available as an option. All trims came with standard AWD, featuring torque vectoring and X-Mode for improved traction on loose surfaces. Despite its SUV-like features, the Crosstrek was primarily suited for on-road driving, offering predictable handling and a comfortable ride.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came with two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 276 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. The turbo-four required premium fuel for maximum output and had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, while the V6 could tow up to 5,000 pounds. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered FWD or AWD. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an Active Control system for different terrains. However, the V6 engine lacked refinement and power, resulting in a less satisfying driving experience. The Atlas' handling was sound, but the ride quality was inconsistent, with noticeable body float and road noise.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek shared its interior dimensions with the Impreza hatchback, offering competitive passenger space but limited cargo capacity. With 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 55.3 cubic feet with the seats folded, the Crosstrek lagged behind some rivals in cargo capacity. The interior featured a practical layout with a cubby hole for phones and two USB ports, though rear-seat passengers lacked USB access. The driving position was higher than the Impreza's, providing good outward visibility.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space and comfort, accommodating seven passengers with ease, even in the third row. The Atlas offered a low step-in height and numerous storage areas, though many were unlined, leading to unwanted noise. Cargo space was exceptional, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 55.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 96.8 cubic feet with the second row down. The Atlas' interior featured V-Tex leatherette seating, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat as standard, with additional luxury features available on higher trims.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek featured the Starlink infotainment system with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and Bluetooth. Higher trims offered an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and additional features like WiFi and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system was user-friendly, with large analog knobs and buttons for essential functions. Subaru's EyeSight driver-assistance features were controlled via steering wheel buttons.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrument cluster as standard, with an 8-inch display on lower trims and a 10.25-inch display on higher trims. The Atlas SE had a 6.5-inch touchscreen with basic infotainment features, while other trims featured the MIB3 system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless connectivity, and Car-Net connected services. The user experience was hindered by slow loading times and a cumbersome interface. The Atlas offered a range of connected services and a 12-speaker Fender premium sound system on higher trims.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS for the 2020 model. The Crosstrek offered standard EyeSight driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The EyeSight system's cameras were well-protected but had limitations in certain conditions.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and a surround-view camera system. The Atlas' safety features were generally effective, though Lane Assist had issues with old construction markings. The Atlas received decent crash-test ratings but did not earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.