2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried forward with minor modifications after significant updates in 2021. Available in four trims in Canada—Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, and Execline—the Atlas offered a range of features and pricing from $41,595 to $57,695, plus a $1,950 destination charge. The Execline trim, the top of the line, featured R-Line design elements, including 21-inch alloy wheels that enhanced its upscale appearance. Despite its bold exterior, the interior design was a mix of simplicity and premium flair, though marred by low-cost materials and hard plastics, which detracted from the overall quality.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, giving it a rugged look with a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia. However, its side profile introduced a swooping character line that added unnecessary visual weight. The rear design echoed the front grille, resulting in a somewhat disjointed appearance compared to more cohesive competitors. Inside, the Highlander featured an asymmetrical dash with a metallic styling element, creating a functional and visually interesting space. The Bronze Edition test vehicle included unique design elements like bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric upholstery, which, while distinctive, raised concerns about durability and practicality.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a standard turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, requiring premium fuel for optimal performance. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Motion AWD, the turbo engine had a towing capacity of 907 kg and a fuel consumption rating of 10.6 L/100 km. The optional 3.6-litre V6 engine, standard on the Execline trim, produced 276 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kg. Despite its power, the V6's performance was leisurely, and its fuel consumption was higher at 12.2 L/100 km. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an AWD system that could decouple the rear wheels for better fuel economy. However, its ride quality was mixed, with a busy ride on rough surfaces and a need for an adaptive-damping suspension for better control.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, producing 243 horsepower. It featured a CVT and standard AWD, with an electric motor powering the rear axle. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 100 km/h in just over eight seconds, slightly slower than gasoline-only SUVs. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick but tepid response, with the gasoline engine supplying adequate power. The CVT's uninspired drone was noticeable during hill climbs. The Highlander Hybrid's braking system was smooth, with regenerative braking seamlessly transitioning to physical brakes. The ride quality was soft, with the suspension effectively smoothing over bumps, and the cabin remained quiet on highways.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas boasted a spacious interior with comfortable seating for seven, even in the third row. The step-in height was low, making entry and exit easy. The Atlas offered numerous storage areas, though many were unlined, causing items to rattle. Cargo space was exceptional, with 583 litres behind the third row, expandable to 1,572 litres with the third row folded, and 2,741 litres with the second row down.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were well-cushioned, with ample adjustments for drivers. Storage options were plentiful, with trays and bins for personal items. The second-row seats were spacious, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs or an optional bench for increased capacity. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space was 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,370 litres with the third row folded, and 2,387 litres with the second row stowed.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas featured the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit as standard, with an 8-inch display on lower trims and a 10.25-inch display on higher trims. The Trendline trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen with basic connectivity, while other trims featured the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless connectivity, and Car-Net services. The Execline trim included a 12-speaker Fender audio system. However, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and cumbersome controls.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard, with a 12.3-inch option on top trims. The system was responsive, with logical menus and physical shortcut buttons. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging on higher trims. Navigation and an 11-speaker JBL audio system were available on Limited and Platinum trims.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came with a comprehensive list of safety features, including automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and advanced lighting systems. However, the Lane Assist system had issues with false alarms and was difficult to disable. The Atlas received decent crash-test ratings but did not earn a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid achieved a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Platinum trim offered additional features like a surround-view camera and head-up display. While the safety systems generally worked well, some required fine-tuning for smoother operation.