2022 Acura MDX vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2022 Acura MDX was a standout in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a compact exterior that belied its spacious interior. Built on a new dedicated platform, the MDX featured a longer wheelbase, wider body, and an increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant appearance. The Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels contributed to a sportier, modern design. Inside, the MDX boasted a refined cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and real leather, complemented by high-quality plastics. The dashboard's layered design emphasized cabin width, while the unique gear selection and touchpad controls added a touch of sophistication. The MDX's interior was available in six themes, and the exterior came in eight colours, showcasing a high level of craftsmanship.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered a bold, sporty look by removing the third row from the standard Atlas, lowering the roofline, and shortening the length. This resulted in a coupe-like appearance, especially in the Execline trim with 21-inch wheels. The interior was spacious, accommodating five adults comfortably, with generous rear legroom. However, the use of hard, glossy plastics detracted from the overall quality feel. The Atlas Cross Sport's cargo space was reduced compared to the seven-passenger model, but it still provided ample room for luggage. The interior colour combinations were upscale, and the panoramic sunroof added to the sense of space.

The 2022 Acura MDX was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It featured a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) as standard in Canada. The SH-AWD system offered torque vectoring, enhancing cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded to a double-wishbone setup in the front and revised multi-link in the rear, improving ride quality and handling. The vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly improved, resulting in a solid ride feel. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came with two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.6-litre V6 with 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and 4Motion all-wheel drive. The V6 engine provided a more satisfying performance, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. However, the V6 was aging, and the drivetrain occasionally lacked refinement. The Atlas Cross Sport's suspension was too firm at low speeds and too soft at higher speeds, affecting ride quality. The vehicle excelled on highways, where the ride was more agreeable.

The 2022 Acura MDX offered versatile seating with a removable centre section in the second row, allowing for easy access to the third row. The second row could slide and recline, providing flexibility for passengers. The MDX's cargo space ranged from 461 to 2,690 litres, depending on the seat configuration. The power tailgate featured a "Walk Away Close" function, and the interior lighting was customizable with 27 themes.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport shared its wheelbase and track width with the larger Atlas, resulting in a roomy interior for five adults. The test vehicle featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats, heated rear seats, and a dual-zone climate control system. The cargo area offered ample space, with deep wells for additional storage. However, the lack of lining in storage areas could lead to rattling noises.

The 2022 Acura MDX was equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment system and a digital instrument panel. The ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System, available on higher trims, delivered exceptional sound quality. The MDX also featured Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a head-up display on the Platinum Elite trim. A WiFi hotspot and over-the-air updates were standard.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came with a digital instrument cluster and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth pairing, and wireless charging. The Execline trim included a 12-speaker Fender audio system, which was highly praised. However, the user experience with the infotainment system was sometimes frustrating, and pairing a smartphone was recommended for a smoother experience.

The 2022 Acura MDX received a "Top Safety Pick +" rating from the IIHS, with top marks in every category. It featured a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features included collision mitigation emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered a range of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added adaptive LED headlights, a semi-autonomous Park Assist system, and a 360-degree camera system. The Travel Assist system was generally accurate but occasionally lacked refinement. The Atlas Cross Sport received favourable crash-test ratings, though not the highest accolades.