2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

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 was reminiscent of the "crossover coupes" from luxury automakers, though the styling was somewhat unconventional. The vehicle's exterior was marked by standard LED lighting and a range of wheel options, from 18-inch alloys on the Trendline and Comfortline to optional 21-inch wheels on the Execline. The R-Line package added sportier elements, including modified bumpers and side skirts. Inside, the Cross Sport featured VW's minimalist design, which was visually appealing but marred by subpar materials. The leather upholstery and contrast stitching did little to elevate the interior's overall feel, which was dominated by hard and shiny plastics. The use of multiple dark colours created a less inviting atmosphere, and the flat-bottom steering wheel seemed out of place for a non-performance model.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a more rugged and adventurous aesthetic, with a choice between two-door and four-door body styles. Buyers could select from a variety of powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, or the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid. The Wrangler's design was characterized by its iconic boxy shape and removable roof and doors, which provided a unique open-air driving experience. The High Tide model, based on the Sport S trim, featured LED exterior lighting, a body-colour hardtop with a Sunrider Fliptop, and a Gorilla Glass windshield. The interior was basic, with durable cloth upholstery and a driving position that required some acclimation. Visibility varied, with some areas offering excellent views and others being compromised by design elements like the spare tire. The Wrangler's interior was designed for practicality, with features like floor drain plugs for easy cleaning.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four and a 3.6-litre VR6 engine. The turbo-four produced 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the VR6 delivered 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 less impressive. The ride quality was notably harsh, with every bump and pothole making its presence felt. The Cross Sport's handling was more akin to a truck, with significant body roll and loose steering. The VR6 model had a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms, while the four-cylinder model could tow 907 kilograms. The vehicle featured Active Control with multiple drive modes and 20.3 centimetres of ground clearance, but it was not particularly suited for off-road adventures.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine and eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, produced 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and the optional Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system. Fuel consumption was higher than expected, averaging 14.0 L/100 km over a week of driving. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, with a focus on off-road capability and open-air enjoyment. The vehicle's handling was characterized by loud cabin noise, vague steering, and a rough ride. Despite these traits, the Wrangler offered an immersive driving experience that appealed to those seeking adventure. The Wrangler's off-road capabilities were unmatched, providing a sense of freedom and exploration.

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 generous, 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-fold rear seat and a foot-activated tailgate on higher trims. Storage options included cargo nets, cupholders, and a centre console, providing practical solutions for everyday use.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's interior was designed for durability and practicality, with comfortable seats and durable cloth upholstery. Entry and exit were challenging, especially with a raised suspension. The driving position was close to the steering wheel and windshield, requiring some adjustment. Visibility varied, with some areas offering excellent views and others being obstructed. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry challenges but found comfortable accommodations once inside. Storage options were limited, with netting on door panels and small compartments. The Wrangler Unlimited offered 898 litres of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 2,050 litres with the seat folded.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport featured two infotainment systems: the MIB2 with a 6.5-inch touchscreen on the base trim and the MIB3 with an 8-inch touchscreen on 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 offered a Volkswagen Digital Cockpit and a 12-speaker Fender audio system. The MIB3 system was slow to load, and the Fender audio system was underwhelming. The Digital Cockpit provided a customizable display, while analog controls offered ease of use for basic functions.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's infotainment system was basic, with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 system offered upgrades like satellite radio and a navigation system. Our test vehicle included remote engine starting, satellite radio, and single-zone automatic climate control. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, enhancing comfort during colder months.

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, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. 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 advanced driver aids.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, adding features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Wrangler's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a three-star NHTSA rating for rollover resistance and Marginal IIHS ratings. Safety features were optional, and the Wrangler required careful driving due to its design and handling characteristics.