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 crossover coupes, resulted in a somewhat awkward aesthetic. The vehicle was shorter and lower than its seven-seat counterpart, maintaining the same wheelbase. It featured standard LED lighting and a range of wheel sizes across different trims, with the R-Line models adding sportier styling elements. Inside, the minimalist design was visually appealing but marred by subpar materials, with leather upholstery that felt rubbery and an abundance of hard plastics. The color scheme was dark and uninviting, and the flat-bottom steering wheel seemed out of place for a non-performance model.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Terrain received updates to its front styling, wheel designs, and interior trim, with the new AT4 trim level offering a bolder look. The AT4 came with black alloy wheels, sport-terrain tires, and a steel skid plate for off-road protection. The test vehicle featured a black leather interior and a suite of optional packages, raising its price significantly. Despite being GMC's entry-level model, the Terrain's interior materials and execution left something to be desired. The head-up display was a clear plastic panel rather than a windshield projection, and the pushbutton transmission controls were not intuitive. The Terrain's cabin, while equipped with caramel-colored contrast stitching, did not fully meet expectations for craftsmanship.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-liter VR6 engine with 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 lacked midrange power, and the transmission was slow to react. The ride quality was harsh, with noticeable bumps and potholes, and the cabin was noisy. The Cross Sport had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds with the VR6 engine and 2,000 pounds with the four-cylinder. It featured multiple drive modes and 8 inches of ground clearance, but its off-road capabilities were limited compared to competitors.

The 2022 GMC Terrain was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. The engine's power was accessible between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm, but there was a delay in acceleration. The nine-speed automatic transmission performed adequately, and the turbocharging helped at higher elevations. The Terrain's towing capacity was limited to 1,500 pounds. It offered FWD and AWD modes, with an Off-Road mode and Hill Descent Control. The Terrain's ride was smooth on highways and city streets, but it struggled off-road, with limited ground clearance and grip. The powertrain met fuel economy expectations, achieving 26.2 mpg during testing.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport boasted 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 generous, with 40.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 77.8 cubic feet with them folded. The interior featured various storage solutions, including a large center console and a cubbyhole for charge ports.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered a roomy interior for a compact crossover, with power-adjustable front seats, heated features, and dual-zone climate control. The back seat provided ample legroom and comfort, with a rear USB charging port. The Terrain's interior included numerous storage options, such as shelves and slots. Cargo space measured 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.3 cubic feet with them folded. The front passenger seat could also be folded for longer items.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport featured two infotainment systems: the MIB2 with a 6.5-inch touchscreen and the MIB3 with an 8-inch touchscreen. Both systems offered USB-C ports, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and pinch-to-zoom screens. The MIB3 added multiple-device pairing and updated voice recognition. Higher trims included a Digital Cockpit display and a Fender audio system. The MIB3 system was slow to load, and the voice recognition required specific prompts. The Digital Cockpit display was a highlight, offering customizable configurations.

The 2022 GMC Terrain provided two infotainment systems, with a 7-inch touchscreen on the SLE trim and an 8-inch touchscreen on higher trims. Both systems included wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, SiriusXM, and OnStar 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 Terrain also featured a head-up display, park assist sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The Tire Fill Alert system and remote engine start were practical additions.

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 higher trims.

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, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Terrain received mostly "Good" scores from the IIHS, with a "Marginal" rating in a new side-impact test. The NHTSA had not evaluated the 2022 Terrain at the time of review.