2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport vs 2022 Kia EV6

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 and platform. Standard LED lighting and various wheel options added to its exterior appeal, while the R-Line package offered sportier styling. Inside, the minimalist design was visually appealing but marred by subpar materials, with leather upholstery and contrast stitching failing to elevate the overall feel. The interior's dark colour scheme and flat-bottom steering wheel contributed to a less welcoming atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia EV6 exuded a sportier and more svelte appearance, akin to a Ford Mustang Mach-E. Its design featured a highback tail with a lip spoiler, wide fenders, and a wedgy profile, creating a visually striking presence. The EV6's interior boasted dual 12-inch screens, a floating centre console, and a mix of suede and leather seats, creating a futuristic and comfortable environment. Ambient lighting and digital controls added to the modern aesthetic, while the car's design prioritized a car-first, computer-second approach, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-litre VR6 engine delivering 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet 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 subpar, with noticeable bumps and potholes, and the handling felt more like a truck than a sporty SUV. The VR6 model had a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms, while the four-cylinder model could tow 907 kilograms.

The 2022 Kia EV6, particularly in the GT-Line e-AWD configuration, featured two electric motors generating 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds, offering a thrilling driving experience. The EV6's regenerative braking system provided extensive control, allowing for one-pedal driving. However, the driving range was disappointing in cold weather, with the EV6 achieving only 65 percent of its estimated range. Charging capabilities were impressive, with the ability to accept up to 240 kW, but real-world charging times fell short of Kia's claims.

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 the seats folded. The vehicle featured a variety of storage options, including a large centre console and second-row armrest with cupholders.

The 2022 Kia EV6 provided generous legroom and headroom in all seating positions, despite lacking a panoramic moonroof. The rear seats reclined and offered air vents with optional heated cushions. However, the cargo space was limited, with 690 litres behind the seats and 1,322 litres when folded. The EV6's towing capacity was 1,043 kilograms, and it featured an onboard power generator for added versatility.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came 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, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The MIB3 system added multiple-device pairing and updated voice recognition. The Digital Cockpit display provided a customizable instrument cluster, while the Fender audio system offered premium sound.

The 2022 Kia EV6 featured a user-friendly infotainment system with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The instrument panel displayed live feeds of blind spots and offered a 360-degree surround-view camera. The head-up display used augmented reality for navigation, and the highest trim included a 14-speaker Meridian stereo. The EV6 also featured a remote parking assist system, enhancing convenience.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport received top "Good" scores in IIHS crash tests, with mixed headlight ratings. It earned a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. 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.

The 2022 Kia EV6 lacked published safety test results but offered impressive standard safety features, including forward collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist, and driver attention warning. Higher trims added blind spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera system.