2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport retained much of the same design as the regular Atlas, but with a lower roofline and an aggressively raked rear hatch. This design choice gave it a crossover coupe-like appearance, blending SUV ruggedness with car-like features. However, the styling was somewhat controversial, with elements like fake exhaust tips on the rear bumper appearing tacky. The Cross Sport was shorter and lower than the seven-seat Atlas, sharing the same wheelbase and platform, which underpinned many of VW's models. It featured standard LED lighting and various wheel options, with the R-Line package adding sportier exterior elements. Inside, the minimalist design was visually appealing but let down 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 were also points of contention.

The redesigned 2022 Lexus NX came in four model series, offering a range of trim levels and price points. The NX 350, with its turbocharged engine, was the focus of this review. The NX's design was unmistakably Lexus, featuring a prominent spindle grille and refined styling details. It was larger than its predecessor, providing more passenger and cargo space. The interior was comfortable, with options for real leather and open-pore wood trim, and a panoramic moonroof was available for the first time. The F Sport trim added unique exterior and interior features, enhancing its sporty appeal. The interior design was simplified compared to the previous model, with a focus on minimalism. However, the integration of many functions into the touchscreen could be challenging for drivers to navigate quickly. Despite some drawbacks, the NX's quality levels were generally high, though the turn signal felt inexpensive.

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. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and featured start-stop systems for improved fuel efficiency. The turbo-four engine produced 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the V6 delivered 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. 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 cabin allowed in wind and tire noise. The Cross Sport's towing capacity varied between 2,000 and 5,000 pounds, depending on the engine. AWD versions featured Active Control with multiple drive modes and 20.3 centimetres of ground clearance, but the vehicle's off-road capabilities were limited compared to competitors.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions, with the NX 350h hybrid producing 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid delivering 302 horsepower. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine with 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The turbocharged powertrain was more rewarding than the base NX 250, which had a 2.5-litre engine with 203 horsepower. The NX 350 F Sport added driving modes and an adaptive variable sports suspension, enhancing its performance on winding roads. The NX's handling was improved over the previous model, though the turbocharged engine lacked the refinement of German rivals. The F Sport version provided better impact isolation, but road and wind noise were more noticeable than expected. The NX was not designed for off-road use, with limited ground clearance and approach angles.

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-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 Lexus NX claimed to offer more interior room, though it felt more intimate from the driver's seat. The interior was comfortable, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel available. The F Sport trim provided better seat bolstering, and thoughtful padding enhanced comfort. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed spacious accommodations, with rear air conditioning vents and USB ports. The NX's panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat, adding to the sense of space. Cargo capacity increased by 14%, with 643 litres behind the back seat and 1,328 litres with the seats folded. Thematic Ambient Illumination and effective climate control contributed to a pleasant cabin environment.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was equipped with two infotainment systems. The base Trendline trim featured the MIB2 system with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while other trims received the MIB3 system with an 8-inch touchscreen. 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. While the MIB3 system offered improvements, it was slow to load, and the audio quality was lacking. The Digital Cockpit display provided useful customization options, and analog controls simplified basic functions.

The 2022 Lexus NX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system, featuring large touchscreen displays, natural voice recognition, and cloud-based features. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen available. Both versions included wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, and Voice Assistant technology. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system optional. The new system eliminated the old touchpad interface, offering a more user-friendly experience. However, the touchscreen collected fingerprints and reflections, and the lack of a tuning knob was a drawback. The NX also featured a digital mirror, head-up display, and various connected services, enhancing its technological appeal.

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, with five stars for side crashes and four stars for frontal and rollover tests. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and parking 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 Lexus NX featured the comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including lane keep assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. New features included Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Curve Speed Management. The Emergency Driving Stop System brought the NX to a safe stop if the driver was unresponsive. Additional safety features included a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist. Optional packages added rear pedestrian detection, adaptive front lighting, and semi-autonomous parking assist, enhancing the NX's safety credentials.