2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport retained much of the design from its seven-seat counterpart, the Atlas, but with a lower roofline and a sharply angled rear hatch. This design choice gave it a crossover coupe aesthetic, blending SUV ruggedness with car-like features. However, some elements, like the fake exhaust tips on the rear bumper, detracted from its overall appeal. The Cross Sport was slightly shorter and lower than the Atlas, sharing the same wheelbase and platform, which underpinned many of VW's models. It featured standard LED lighting and offered various wheel sizes across its trims, with the R-Line package adding sportier styling elements. Inside, the minimalist design was visually appealing but marred by subpar materials, such as rubbery leather and hard plastics, which made the interior feel less premium. The use of dark colours and a flat-bottom steering wheel further contributed to a less inviting atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura MDX was built on a new dedicated platform, enhancing its proportions with a longer wheelbase, wider body, and increased dash-to-axle distance for a more elegant look. The MDX featured standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels, giving it a sportier and more assertive appearance. Built in Ohio, the MDX showcased high craftsmanship and quality. Inside, the cabin was modernized with a layered dashboard, authentic materials like natural wood and real leather, and a unique gear selection system. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen was strategically placed for safety, and the front seats offered comfort and adjustability. The MDX's interior was spacious, with customizable lighting themes enhancing the cabin's ambiance.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four producing 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.6-litre VR6 engine delivering 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The VR6 engine provided a lively acceleration experience, but midrange performance was lacking, and the transmission was slow to react. The ride quality was subpar, with noticeable bumps and noise intrusion, and the handling was more truck-like with significant body roll. The VR6 model had a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms, while the four-cylinder model could tow 907 kilograms. The Cross Sport featured multiple drive modes and 20.3 centimetres of ground clearance, but it wasn't ideal for off-road adventures.

The 2022 Acura MDX came with a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission. The Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhanced cornering feel and control with torque vectoring capabilities. The MDX's suspension was upgraded to a double-wishbone setup for improved handling, and the vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were enhanced. The 10-speed transmission worked seamlessly with the engine, offering smooth performance and five drive modes for various driving conditions. During a two-day test drive, the MDX impressed with its handling and highway cruising capabilities, standing out among competitors like the Lexus RX L and Volvo XC90.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered competitive interior space for a two-row midsize crossover, with ample front-seat and rear-seat legroom. However, rear headroom was limited due to the sloping roofline. Cargo space was above average, with 1,141 litres available with the rear seats in place and 2,203 litres with them folded. The vehicle featured a 60/40 split-folding second row and various storage solutions, including a large centre console and charge ports.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled in versatility as a three-row SUV, offering comfortable seating for the first two rows and a flexible second row with a removable centre section. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers, but the sliding and reclining second row allowed for balanced legroom. Cargo capacity ranged from 461 to 512 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,690 litres with the second row folded. The MDX featured a power tailgate with convenient functions like "Walk Away Close" and customizable interior lighting with 27 themes.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was equipped with two infotainment systems: the MIB2 system with a 6.5-inch touchscreen for the base trim and the MIB3 system with an 8-inch touchscreen for higher trims. Both systems included USB-C ports, Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The MIB3 system added multiple-device pairing and updated voice recognition. The Execline trim featured a Digital Cockpit display and a 12-speaker Fender audio system. However, the MIB3 system was slow to load, and the audio quality was underwhelming.

The 2022 Acura MDX boasted advanced technology, including the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification in higher trims. The 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard, offering customization options. Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Qi-compatible wireless charging were included. The MDX also featured a CabinTalk system, a head-up display, and a surround-view camera on higher trims, along with a WiFi hotspot and over-the-air updates.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport received top "Good" scores in IIHS crash tests, with mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. Unique to the Cross Sport were the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and Intelligent Crash Response System. New for 2021 were Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, available on the Execline trim.

The 2022 Acura MDX was rated as a "Top Safety Pick +" by the IIHS, with top marks in every category. The MDX featured a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. The front end was redesigned for pedestrian safety, and a low-speed braking control system was included. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features was standard, offering collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more.