2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport vs 2022 Lexus RX

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 the seven-seat Atlas, maintaining the same wheelbase, and rode on VW’s MQB platform. Standard LED exterior lighting and various 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, which detracted from the overall quality. The interior's dark colour scheme and flat-bottom steering wheel further contributed to a less welcoming atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus RX continued to impress with its modern and sporty design, following a facelift in 2020. The RX stood out among its competitors with aggressive exterior styling, characterized by sharp character lines and angular features. The F Sport models added performance-oriented aesthetics, including larger wheels and unique front fascia. Inside, the RX maintained a luxurious appeal, with F Sport models featuring sporty touches like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. Despite the dated centre stack, the cabin offered high-quality materials and a comfortable ride. However, the NuLuxe seats in the F Sport were less comfortable, and finding an ideal driving position proved challenging.

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 with 276 hp and 266 lb-ft 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 handling was more akin to 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. AWD versions featured Active Control with multiple drive modes and 20.3 centimetres of ground clearance.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 came with a standard 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid RX 450h added electric motors for a combined output of 308 hp. All models featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada. Despite the F Sport designation, the RX lacked sporty performance, with a subdued engine note and unimpressive acceleration. The adaptive variable suspension and Sport+ drive mode did little to enhance the driving experience. However, the RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, providing a smooth ride and isolating road noise. Fuel efficiency varied, with the RX 350 using 12.2 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 9.0 on the highway, while the RX 450h hybrid offered better fuel economy.

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 above average, with 1,141 litres available with the rear seats in place and 2,203 litres with them folded. The second-row seats featured a 60/40 split-fold and 14-degree backrest recline. The vehicle included various storage solutions, such as cargo nets, cupholders, and a centre console.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 2,826 litres of passenger volume in the standard two-row model, comfortably accommodating four adults. The three-row L models had limited space for anything beyond groceries. Cargo capacity in the standard RX was 453 litres behind the second row, expanding to 923 litres with the seats folded. The three-row version offered 210 litres with all seats upright, increasing to 1,657 litres with both back rows down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements, such as a smartphone slot, adjustable-height cup holder, and a flat-bottomed cargo net.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was equipped with two infotainment systems: the MIB2 with a 6.5-inch touchscreen for the base trim and the MIB3 with an 8-inch touchscreen for higher trims. Both systems included USB-C ports, Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The MIB3 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 some improvements, it was slow to load, and the voice recognition required specific prompts.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch version available for higher trims. Despite being moved closer to the driver, the screen's positioning was ergonomically unfriendly, with a lip obstructing access. The touchscreen was responsive, but the alternatives—voice commands and a touchpad—were frustrating to use. The RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, wireless charging, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus App provided additional connectivity options.

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 monitor, 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 automated lane centring and emergency stopping.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, and a pre-collision system. Additional standard features were blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS with optional headlights and received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Despite its age, the RX remained competitive in safety.