2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport vs 2022 GMC Terrain

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport presented a unique blend of SUV ruggedness and car-like features, with its low roofline and aggressively raked rear hatch. This design choice, reminiscent of luxury automakers' "crossover coupes," resulted in a somewhat awkward aesthetic. The vehicle was shorter and lower than its seven-seat counterpart, maintaining the same wheelbase. Standard LED lighting and a variety of wheel options were available, 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. The interior's dark colour scheme and flat-bottom steering wheel contributed to a less welcoming atmosphere.

The 2022 GMC Terrain, on the other hand, underwent updates to its front styling, wheel designs, taillights, and interior trim. The new AT4 trim level featured a bold grille, black alloy wheels, and a steel skid plate for off-road protection. The test vehicle, with its Ebony Twilight metallic paint and black leather interior, was equipped with several packages, including the Tech Package and Infotainment Package II. Despite its entry-level status, the Terrain offered a range of features, though the quality of materials and execution left room for improvement. The pushbutton transmission controls and narrow storage tray were notable design oversights, and the cabin's overall craftsmanship did not meet expectations for its price point.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two powertrain options: a standard 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine and an optional 3.6-litre V6 engine. The turbo-four produced 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the V6 delivered 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The VR6 engine provided lively acceleration from a stop, but midrange performance was lacking. The ride quality was subpar, with noticeable bumps and potholes, and the cabin was noisy. The Cross Sport's towing capacity varied between 907 kilograms for the four-cylinder and 2,268 kilograms for the V6. The vehicle featured multiple drive modes and 20.3 centimetres of ground clearance, but it lacked the off-road capabilities of competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The 2022 GMC Terrain was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. The engine's performance was adequate, with torque available between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm. The nine-speed automatic transmission helped maintain the torque band, but the engine lacked the acceleration of the discontinued 2.0-litre option. The Terrain's towing capacity was limited to 680 kilograms. The AT4 model featured a four-wheel independent suspension and 20.1 centimetres of ground clearance. The ride was smooth on highways and city streets, but off-road performance was limited. The Terrain's handling was uninspiring, with numb steering and a lack of power, though fuel economy was commendable.

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 behind the rear seats and 2,203 litres with them folded. The vehicle included various storage solutions, such as cargo nets, cupholders, and a centre console. Higher trim levels featured a foot-activated tailgate for added convenience.

The 2022 GMC Terrain provided a roomy interior for a compact crossover, with power-adjustable front seats, heated features, and dual-zone climate control. The AT4 trim included perforated leather upholstery with contrast stitching, offering an upscale feel. The back seat was spacious, with ample legroom and a rear USB charging port. The Terrain featured numerous storage solutions, including a large storage bin under the trunk floor. Cargo space measured 838 litres behind the second row and 1,792 litres with the rear seat folded. The front passenger seat could also be folded for longer items.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was equipped with two infotainment systems: the MIB2 with a 6.5-inch touchscreen and the MIB3 with an 8-inch touchscreen. Both systems included USB-C ports, Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The MIB3 added multiple-device pairing and updated voice recognition. Execline models featured a Digital Cockpit display and a Fender premium audio system. The MIB3 system was slow to load, and the audio quality was lacking. The Digital Cockpit display offered customizable configurations, and analog controls were user-friendly.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered two infotainment systems, with a 7-inch touchscreen for the SLE trim and an 8-inch touchscreen for higher trims. Both systems included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and GMC Connected Services. The larger screen offered connected navigation and a Bose audio system. The voice recognition system was highly effective, accurately responding to various prompts. The Tech Package added a head-up display, park assist sensors, and a surround-view camera. The Terrain also featured a Tire Fill Alert system and remote engine starting.

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, offering automated lane centring and emergency stopping.

The 2022 GMC Terrain came standard with the GMC Pro Safety Package, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The Pro Safety Plus Package added adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The Terrain received mostly "Good" IIHS crash-test scores, with a "Marginal" rating in a new side-impact test. The NHTSA had not evaluated the 2022 Terrain at the time of review.