2022 Porsche Macan vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2022 Porsche Macan retained much of its original design charm, despite undergoing several updates since its debut in 2015. The latest model featured a refreshed exterior with larger standard wheels and a new centre console that introduced haptic touch controls, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. The Macan S, our test vehicle, showcased a sleek Volcano Gray finish and 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels, embodying Porsche's tradition of blending performance with elegance. Inside, the Macan drew inspiration from other Porsche models, offering a sporty and upscale cabin with red leather, gloss black trim, and silver metallic accents, creating a luxurious yet purposeful environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport presented a bold and sporty appearance, achieved by removing the third row from the standard Atlas and lowering the roofline for a coupe-like silhouette. The Execline trim, with its 21-inch machined-finish wheels, emphasized the SUV's broad-shouldered stance. Despite its stylish exterior, the interior was marred by hard, glossy plastics that detracted from the overall quality feel. However, the spacious cabin, especially in the rear, provided ample room for passengers, and the Pure Grey exterior paired with the Dark Burgundy and Titan Black interior added a touch of sophistication.

The 2022 Porsche Macan offered a range of powertrains, with the base Macan and Macan T featuring a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 261 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The Macan S, our test vehicle, was equipped with a twin-turbo 2.9-litre V6 engine, delivering 375 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package. All Macans came with a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission and a fully variable AWD system. The Macan S also boasted larger 20-inch wheels and Porsche Active Suspension Management, enhancing its ride and handling characteristics. Despite its sporty nature, the Macan S offered a comfortable driving experience, with responsive steering and impressive braking performance.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport provided two engine options: a standard turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder with 235 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, and an available 3.6-litre V6 producing 276 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. The V6 engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW's 4Motion AWD system, offered a more satisfying driving experience, especially in the two-row Cross Sport. However, the V6's fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 12.3 L/100 km during testing. The Atlas Cross Sport's suspension struggled with ride quality, feeling harsh at lower speeds and too soft at higher speeds. Despite these issues, the SUV excelled on highways, where the ride was more agreeable, and the V6 engine performed efficiently.

The 2022 Porsche Macan provided a comfortable experience for front-seat occupants, with optional 14-way power-adjustable seats offering heating and ventilation. However, rear-seat space was limited, especially for taller passengers. The redesigned centre console with haptic touch controls added a modern touch, but the lack of storage space remained a concern. Cargo capacity was modest, with 488 litres available behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,503 litres with the seats folded.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered exceptional interior space, accommodating five adults comfortably. The test vehicle featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, heated rear seats, and a dual-zone climate control system. The panoramic sunroof added to the spacious feel, while ample storage options were available throughout the cabin. The cargo area provided generous load-floor space, with additional storage under the load floor, making it practical for families and travellers.

The 2022 Porsche Macan came equipped with a 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, known as Porsche Communication Management (PCM). This system included wireless Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM satellite radio, a navigation system, and connected services. While the user experience was generally intuitive, the voice recognition system was less reliable compared to competitors. Fortunately, the Macan offered physical controls for frequently used features, reducing the need for screen interaction while driving.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport featured the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster paired with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This setup included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and wireless smartphone charging. Despite checking all the right boxes, the user experience was often frustrating, with interaction issues and unreliable voice recognition. The Execline trim added a 12-speaker Fender premium audio system, delivering impressive sound quality for the price point.

The 2022 Porsche Macan offered standard lane-departure warning and a reversing camera, with optional features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. While these technologies performed as expected, the Macan lacked more advanced driving assistance features. However, it did offer a surround-view camera and Park Assist system for easier parking.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport provided a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Execline trim added a semi-autonomous Park Assist system and an Area View 360-degree camera. While Travel Assist occasionally lacked refinement, it was generally accurate and sophisticated. The Atlas Cross Sport received favourable crash-test ratings, though not the highest accolades from safety organizations.