2022 BMW X3 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 updates 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 cosmetic changes, the Atlas retained 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, although the material quality was somewhat lacking, with plastics that felt cheap and simulated wood and metal trim that were unconvincing.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW X3 featured a slightly more aggressive exterior design with a larger kidney grille and new adaptive full LED headlights. The rear of the X3 was updated with new taillights and larger exhaust tips. The M Sport Package added sporty elements like larger air intakes and a rear diffuser. Inside, the X3 offered a clean and efficient design with a variety of trim options, including wood and SensaTec synthetic leather. The interior was well-appointed, with features like eight-way power-adjustable front seats and tri-zone automatic climate control. The X3's cabin was spacious, with a focus on comfort and practicality, making it a suitable choice for families.

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 adequate acceleration but rough shifts and poor ride quality. The suspension tuning was not ideal, and the vehicle's handling felt truck-like. The Atlas had a towing capacity of up to 2,267 kilograms with the VR6 engine, but its fuel efficiency was not impressive, with combined ratings of 10.9 litres per 100 kilometres for the four-cylinder and 12.9 litres per 100 kilometres for the VR6.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission across all models. The base xDrive30i was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, achieving a 0-100 km/h time of 6.3 seconds. The M40i variant boasted a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine with 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, complemented by a mild-hybrid system. The M40i's performance was more exhilarating, with a 0-100 km/h time of 4.5 seconds. The X3's driving dynamics were enhanced by features like a flap-controlled sports exhaust system and adaptive suspension, providing a more engaging driving experience compared to the Atlas.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas was designed as a family hauler with three rows of seating. It offered 2,741 litres of cargo space behind the front seats and 583 litres with all seats up. While the third-row legroom was generous, the second-row legroom was lacking. The Atlas featured a straightforward folding mechanism for the second and third rows, and its controls were logically laid out. The vehicle included up to five USB ports and a wireless charging pad, along with 17 cupholders. However, forward visibility was less than optimal, and the driving position was tall, as expected from a crossover.

The 2022 BMW X3 provided seating for five and ample cargo space, with a standard 40/20/40-split rear seat configuration. The X3's interior was comfortable, with options for SensaTec or Vernasca leather upholstery. The vehicle's ergonomics were improved, with a redesigned centre console and a larger infotainment system. The X3 offered a power tailgate and optional hands-free opening for added convenience. The sport seats were supportive, and the vehicle's adjustability catered to various occupant preferences. Overall, the X3's interior was well-designed, with a focus on comfort and practicality.

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

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7 telematics, including a 10.25-inch infotainment screen and a 5.1-inch colour display instrument panel. The system offered navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a range of connected features. An optional Live Cockpit Professional upgraded the screens to 12.3 inches. The X3's standard audio system included 12 speakers, with an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system available on the M40i. Additional tech options included comfort access keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received a top "good" rating 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 Atlas received a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist available on higher trims. The Atlas was set to receive more advanced driver aids later in the model year.

The 2022 BMW X3 was awarded a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. While IIHS ratings for the 2022 model were not yet available, the 2018 X3 was named a Top Safety Pick+. The X3 included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as adaptive LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and active blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included parking assistance, traffic jam assistance, and active lane-keep assist.