2022 Acura RDX vs 2021 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas underwent a styling refresh that included new front and rear bumpers, standard LED headlights and taillights, and a new grille design. These changes added 6 centimetres to its length, giving the Atlas a more extroverted appearance compared to its predecessor. The R-Line trim package further enhanced its sporty look with unique bumpers and side skirts. Despite these updates, the Atlas maintained its MQB platform, which is shared with other VW models like the Jetta and Golf. The interior of the Atlas was minimalist, with a focus on functionality, though the material quality was below average, with cheap-feeling plastics and faux wood and metal trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX featured subtle styling changes inspired by the larger MDX model, including updates to the grille surround and bumper styling. The RDX also introduced new wheel designs and paint colours, with the PMC Edition standing out in exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint. The RDX's interior boasted high-quality materials and a quieter cabin, thanks to sound-deadening measures. The A-Spec Platinum Elite package offered a premium experience with comfortable seating and a sporty driving position. However, the RDX's control layout required some acclimation, particularly the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas 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 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Motion all-wheel drive. The Atlas's driving experience was underwhelming, with rough shifts and truck-like handling. Its ride quality was poor, and the suspension tuning missed the mark. The Atlas had a towing capacity of up to 2,267 kilograms with the VR6 engine, but its fuel efficiency was unimpressive, with the four-cylinder model rated at 10.9 litres per 100 kilometres combined.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. The RDX's driving dynamics were enjoyable, with a smooth and comfortable ride, thanks to the re-tuned adaptive-damping suspension. The RDX's fuel consumption was rated at 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres, though real-world testing showed an average of 11.4 L/100 km. The RDX excelled in driving dynamics, offering a comfortable and communicative experience, though it didn't qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas was designed as a family hauler, offering three rows of seating and a total cargo space of 2,741 litres behind the front seats. It provided more third-row legroom than most competitors, but at the expense of second-row legroom. The second-row bench seat was uncomfortable, with thin cushions. The Atlas featured a straightforward folding mechanism for the second and third rows, and its controls were logically laid out. It offered up to 17 cupholders and five USB ports, but forward visibility was less than optimal.

The 2022 Acura RDX, though a compact SUV, provided ample room for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof. The RDX's interior emphasized a sporty driving position, but its control layout required some getting used to. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with available ventilation, while the back seat lacked support. The RDX offered a power liftgate with hands-free operation, revealing 835 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded. Hidden storage compartments added to its practicality.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas came with Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The base model featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while higher trims had an 8-inch screen with satellite radio. The Digital Cockpit was available on higher trims, offering a 10.3-inch digital display. The Atlas was set to receive the MIBIII infotainment system later in the model year, enhancing voice recognition and navigation. The base audio system was decent, with a 12-speaker Fender audio system available on the Execline trim.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, pairing a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller. The TTI required acclimation, but the RDX also offered Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The RDX included satellite radio, AcuraLink connected services, and a navigation system starting with the Technology package. Three premium sound systems were available, with the ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system offering 16 speakers in higher trims.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top "good" ratings in all IIHS crash tests, with a "marginal" rating for child-seat anchors and mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA had not published ratings for the 2021 model, but the 2020 model received a five-star overall rating. The Atlas featured standard automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist available on higher trims. The Execline trim was set to receive Travel Assist and Emergency Assist later in the model year.

The 2022 Acura RDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, thanks to structural upgrades for side-impact safety. It featured a rear seatbelt reminder system and the AcuraWatch suite of driver-assist systems, including forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The RDX's adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist systems were mostly accurate, though not as refined as some competitors. The NHTSA awarded the RDX a five-star overall crash-test rating, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.