2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport presented a bold and sporty appearance by removing the third row from the standard Atlas model, lowering the roofline by nearly 6 centimetres, and shortening the SUV’s length by 13.2 cm. Despite these changes, the wheelbase remained the same, ensuring a spacious interior for five passengers. However, the reduced cargo space, with 1,141 litres behind the second-row seat and a maximum of 2,203 litres, was a trade-off for its coupe-like design. The Execline trim, with its 21-inch machined-finish wheels, emphasized the vehicle's broad-shouldered stance, although the base Comfortline trim's 18-inch wheels seemed undersized. The interior offered various colour combinations, such as Dark Burgundy over Titan Black, enhancing its upscale feel, though the presence of hard, glossy plastics detracted from the overall quality impression.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler maintained its iconic rugged look, available in both two-door and four-door body styles. Buyers could choose from a range of engines, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, a gasoline-powered V6, a turbodiesel V6, a gas V8, or the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain. The Wrangler's design allowed for a unique open-air driving experience, with removable tops and doors, and a variety of trim levels and special editions, such as the Willys and Rubicon 392. The High Tide model, based on the Sport S trim, featured LED exterior lighting, a body-colour hardtop, and a Gorilla Glass windshield. Despite its higher price point, the Wrangler's interior remained basic, with durable cloth upholstery and practical features like floor drain plugs, emphasizing its off-road capability and adventurous spirit.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a standard turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, and an available 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. The V6 engine, which did not require premium fuel, provided a more satisfying driving experience and a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. 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 Execline trim felt more energetic, although the suspension tuning was criticized for being too firm at low speeds and too soft at higher speeds. The Atlas Cross Sport excelled in highway driving, where the ride quality was more agreeable.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine and eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, delivered 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission and Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system enhanced its capability in slippery conditions. Despite a Natural Resources Canada rating of 11.2 L/100 km, the Wrangler averaged 14.0 L/100 km during testing. Known for its unique driving experience, the Wrangler required frequent fuel stops and offered a rough ride with vague steering and touchy brakes. However, its off-road prowess and open-air driving experience made it a favourite among enthusiasts, providing a sense of freedom and adventure.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport shared its wheelbase and interior dimensions 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 ample storage space was available throughout the cabin. The cargo area, though reduced compared to the seven-passenger model, still provided plenty of space for luggage and other items.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler posed challenges for entry and exit, especially with a raised suspension. The interior featured comfortable seats with durable cloth upholstery, and the driving position was close to the steering wheel and dashboard. Visibility varied, with some areas requiring adjustments for better sightlines. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry challenges but found agreeable accommodations once inside. Storage options were limited, with netting on door panels and small compartments. The cargo area offered 898 litres of space behind the rear seat, expanding to 2,050 litres with the seat folded.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came equipped with a Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, featuring a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system included Bluetooth pairing for two devices, SiriusXM satellite radio, and wireless charging. However, user experience issues with the touchscreen and voice recognition were noted. The Execline trim added a 12-speaker Fender premium audio system, which was highly praised.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, based on the Sport S trim, featured a 7-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth connectivity and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the larger Uconnect 8.4 system offered additional features like satellite radio and a premium audio system, the basic setup met most needs. The Wrangler included options like remote engine starting, satellite radio, and a passive keyless entry system, with the Cold Weather Group adding heated front seats and a heated steering wheel.

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. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a semi-autonomous Park Assist system. While the Atlas Cross Sport received favourable crash-test ratings, it did not earn top accolades from safety organizations.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, adding features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS. Safety features were optional rather than standard, and the Wrangler required careful driving due to its design.