2022 Kia EV6 vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2022 Kia EV6 presented a striking and sporty design, reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E, with a lower and wider stance that gave it a visually appealing presence. Its design elements, such as the highback tail with a lip spoiler doubling as a lightbar, and wheels pushed to the corners of the chassis, contributed to its dynamic look. The EV6's voluptuous curves, similar to those on a Porsche 911, added both style and stability. The headlights, with their V-shaped pattern, and the sealed air intake-like trim on the bumper, enhanced its aggressive appearance. The wedgy profile, smooth matte silver paint, and unique features like recessed lights and a hidden charge port, made the EV6 a standout in terms of industrial design.

Inside, the EV6 featured a futuristic interior with dual 12-inch screens on a linear dash, a floating centre console, and seats covered in faux suede and leather. Ambient lighting and sci-fi-inspired front seat backrests added to the modern aesthetic. The hockey-puck shifter and digital controls differentiated it from basic Kia models, creating an enjoyable driving experience that prioritized the car's design over technology.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, on the other hand, was crafted by modifying the standard seven-passenger Atlas model. By removing the third row, lowering the roofline by nearly 6 centimetres, and shortening the SUV’s length by 13.2 cm, Volkswagen achieved a bold, sporty, and upscale appearance. The Execline trim, with its 21-inch machined-finish wheels, emphasized the Atlas Cross Sport’s broad-shouldered stance. However, the base Comfortline trim's 18-inch alloy wheels appeared too small for the vehicle's design, while the Highline's 20-inch wheels were more fitting.

The Atlas Cross Sport offered six paint colours, with some requiring an additional cost. The test vehicle's Pure Grey exterior paired with a Dark Burgundy over Titan Black interior created a sophisticated look. Despite the upscale appearance, the interior's hard, glossy plastic detracted from the quality impression. The numerous storage areas, lacking Volkswagen’s typical lining, could produce rattles and noises during driving. Nevertheless, the Atlas Cross Sport was perceived as a worthwhile investment, offering a cost-saving alternative to the standard Atlas Execline.

The 2022 Kia EV6, particularly in its GT-Line e-AWD configuration, delivered impressive performance with its dual electric motors producing 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. The 77.4 kWh battery, mounted low in the chassis, allowed the EV6 to accelerate to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds, providing a thrilling driving experience. The upcoming GT trim promised even more power with 576 hp and a 0-60 time of less than 3.5 seconds. The base RWD Standard Range model, however, offered a modest 167 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, making it less appealing.

The EV6's torque delivery was seamless, with the rear motor driving the wheels in most situations and the front motor activating when full power was needed. The regenerative braking system offered more than eight settings, allowing for one-pedal driving in the maximum I-Pedal setting. The EV6's drive modes were easily selectable, enhancing the driving experience. However, the cold weather affected the EV6's driving range, with the vehicle delivering only 65 percent of Kia's 441-kilometre estimate in below-freezing temperatures. Charging performance was commendable, with the EV6 accepting up to 240 kW, though real-world charging speeds were lower due to network limitations.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-litre V6 producing 276 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. The V6 engine, with its 2,268-kilogram towing capacity, was more satisfying and did not require premium fuel. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, offering various driving modes.

The V6 engine in the Atlas Cross Sport Execline provided a more energetic feel compared to the three-row Atlas, despite the similar weight. However, the V6 was aging, and the drivetrain occasionally lacked refinement. The Atlas Cross Sport's ride quality varied, with the suspension feeling harsh at lower speeds and too soft at higher speeds. The 21-inch wheels and Pirelli Scorpion Zero tires contributed to the ride's harshness, while the suspension kept body roll in check. Highway driving was where the Atlas Cross Sport excelled, offering agreeable ride quality and efficient V6 performance.

The 2022 Kia EV6 reinvented several core functions, such as door handles that popped out when approached with the key, paddle shifters, and a twisting rotary shifter. The climate controls and stereo shortcuts were combined in a thin touchscreen, which could be frustrating to use while driving. The EV6 offered generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and optional heated cushions. However, the cargo space was limited, with 690 litres behind the seats and 1,322 litres when folded. The towing capacity was rated at 1,043 kilograms, and the onboard power generator could run 120-volt equipment.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport shared its wheelbase and interior with the larger seven-passenger model, offering exceptional roominess for five adults. The test vehicle featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a dual-zone automatic climate control system. A panoramic sunroof added to the spacious feel, while rear side-window sunshades provided comfort for passengers. The Atlas Cross Sport offered ample storage space, though the lack of lining in storage areas could lead to rattles. The cargo area was generous, with deep wells for carrying items, though the shorter length and lower roofline reduced cargo space compared to the seven-passenger model.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with quick settings adjustments and connectivity options, though wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a wired connection. The instrument panel displayed vehicles in surrounding lanes and offered live feeds of blind spots. The 360-degree surround-view cameras were sharp, and the head-up display used augmented reality for navigation. The highest trim featured a 14-speaker Meridian stereo and a remote parking assist system.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport's base Comfortline trim came with a digital instrument cluster, an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless charging. The user experience could be frustrating, with interaction issues and voice recognition challenges. The Execline trim featured a 12-speaker Fender premium audio system, which was highly praised. The technology offered remote access and vehicle performance reports, though pairing a smartphone for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto was recommended for a smoother experience.

The 2022 Kia EV6 lacked published test results from safety organizations, but it offered impressive safety tech, including forward collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist, and driver attention warning. Higher trims featured blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and 360 cameras.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring as standard. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a semi-autonomous Park Assist system. The Atlas Cross Sport received favourable crash-test ratings, though not the highest accolades from safety organizations.