2022 Lexus RX vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2022 Lexus RX was available in both standard and long-wheelbase versions, with the RX 350 offering a five-seat configuration and the RX 450h hybrid model providing a three-row, seven-passenger option. The RX's design, refreshed in 2020, maintained a modern and sporty appearance, standing out with its aggressive exterior styling among competitors like the Audi Q5 and BMW X5. The F Sport models added a performance-oriented aesthetic with features like 20-inch wheels and unique front fascia, enhancing the RX's high-fashion appeal. Inside, the RX's cabin exuded luxury, with F Sport models incorporating sporty elements like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. However, the centre stack felt dated, and the comfort of the NuLuxe seats was less than ideal, with limited lumbar support and challenging driving position adjustments.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, derived from the standard Atlas model, featured a coupe-like appearance with a lower roofline and shorter length. This design resulted in a bold and upscale look, particularly in the Execline trim with 21-inch machined-finish wheels. The interior was spacious, accommodating five adults comfortably, with generous rear legroom and features like heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a dual-zone climate control system. However, the interior quality was marred by hard, glossy plastics, and the lack of lining in storage areas led to potential rattles. The cargo area, though reduced compared to the seven-passenger model, offered ample space for luggage and other items.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the RX 450h hybrid model combined the V6 with electric motors for a total output of 308 hp. All RX models featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. Despite the F Sport designation, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lack of sporty character and unimpressive acceleration. The engine note was more akin to a turbocharged four-cylinder, and the driving experience lacked confidence. The RX offered various drive modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Sport+, but the differences in driving dynamics were minimal. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, providing a smooth ride and isolating road noise effectively. Fuel consumption for the RX 350 was estimated at 12.2 L/100 km in the city and 9.0 on the highway, with the hybrid model offering improved efficiency.

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. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Motion all-wheel drive in Canada. 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 ride quality varied, with a harsh and brittle feel at lower speeds and a soft, compliant ride at higher speeds. The suspension kept body roll in check, but the vehicle's float and wallow were noticeable. The Atlas Cross Sport excelled on highways, offering agreeable ride quality and efficient performance from the V6 engine. Fuel economy for the V6 was rated at 12.2 L/100 km combined.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered a passenger volume of 2,826 litres in the standard two-row model, comfortably accommodating four adults. The three-row L models had a tighter fit, with limited cargo space when all seats were in use. Cargo capacity in the standard RX was 453 litres behind the second row, expanding to 923 litres with the seats folded down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot, adjustable-height cup holder, and a flat-bottomed cargo net, but the rear seats did not fold completely flat, and the load-in height was high due to the sporty bumper design.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport shared its wheelbase and interior dimensions with the larger seven-passenger model, providing exceptional roominess for five adults. The interior featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats, heated rear seats, and a panoramic sunroof, enhancing comfort and spaciousness. Storage space was abundant, with roomy door panel bins, a large glove compartment, and additional storage areas. The cargo area offered ample load-floor space, with deep wells for carrying items. Despite the reduced cargo space compared to the seven-passenger model, the Atlas Cross Sport accommodated full-size suitcases and other luggage with ease.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with an 8-inch touchscreen display as standard, with a 12.3-inch version available for the 450h L and other trims. The touchscreens, though responsive, were ergonomically unfriendly due to their positioning atop the centre stack. The infotainment system included voice commands and a touchpad, but both were challenging to use. The RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, Bluetooth, wireless charging, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus App provided additional connectivity options, such as remote engine start and vehicle settings.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport featured the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit with a 10.25-inch screen, paired with an 8-inch touchscreen offering Bluetooth pairing, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and wireless charging. The infotainment system included Car-Net remote connectivity for remote access and vehicle performance reports. While the technology was comprehensive, the user experience was often frustrating, with issues related to touchscreen interaction and voice recognition. The Execline trim added a 12-speaker Fender premium audio system, delivering impressive sound quality.

The 2022 Lexus RX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, lane-keeping assist, and a pre-collision system with cyclist and pedestrian detection. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, but only with optional triple-beam LED headlights. The NHTSA awarded the RX four stars overall, with five stars in side crash tests and four stars in frontal crashes and rollover resistance.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and an automatic post-collision braking system. All models in Canada received adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Execline trim added adaptive LED headlights, a semi-autonomous Park Assist system, and an Area View 360-degree camera system. The Atlas Cross Sport received favourable crash-test ratings, though not the highest accolades from the IIHS or NHTSA.