2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2022 Toyota Venza

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried over with minor modifications from its 2021 model, simplifying its lineup to SE, SE with Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line, SEL R-Line Black, and SEL Premium R-Line trims. The pricing ranged from $34,355 to $51,505, plus a $1,195 destination charge. Our test vehicle, an SEL Premium R-Line, came with extra-cost Aurora Red paint and second-row captain’s chairs, totaling $53,790.

The SEL Premium featured standard R-Line design elements, including 21-inch wheels with a machined finish, enhancing its upscale look. Despite its big and boxy appearance, the Atlas had an appealing design, though some wheel choices didn't match its bold styling. The interior displayed simplicity with a premium flair, but the use of low-cost materials, hard plastics, and unlined storage areas detracted from its quality, especially for a vehicle nearing $54,000.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Venza, reintroduced in 2021 on the TGNA-K platform, shared its foundation with models like the Avalon, Camry, and RAV4. Measuring 186.6 inches long, 73.0 inches wide, and 65.9 inches tall, with a 105.9-inch wheelbase, the Venza had excellent proportions and a modern exterior design that could fit into the Lexus lineup. Its deeply scalloped body side and LED-lit tailgate added to its striking appearance. The interior was Lexus-like, with an elegant layout and high-quality materials. The layered dash and well-placed touchscreen display contributed to a comfortable and supportive cabin.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine for SE, SE with Technology, and SEL trims, producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This engine required premium fuel for maximum output and had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. Fuel economy was rated at 22-23 mpg combined. The 3.6-liter V6 engine, standard on higher trims and optional on others, delivered 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. However, its fuel economy was lower at 19-20 mpg combined, and it lacked refinement.

The Atlas featured Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual driving modes, with 4Motion AWD offering additional calibrations for different conditions. Ground clearance was modest at 7.1 inches for the turbocharged model and 7.5 inches for the V6. The Atlas had a spacious interior and advanced driver assistance features, but its ride quality and handling were less refined compared to rivals.

The 2022 Toyota Venza, powered by a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine and three electric motors, produced a combined 219 horsepower. It offered electric-only (EV) operation for short distances and Normal, Eco, and Sport drive modes. Regenerative braking helped recharge the lithium-ion battery, optimizing efficiency. The Venza provided a sprightly performance and agile handling, with a focus on comfort rather than aggressive cornering.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas, with the discontinuation of the base S trim, featured V-Tex leatherette seating, heated front seats, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat as standard. Higher trims added tri-zone automatic climate control, ambient cabin lighting, a panoramic sunroof, genuine leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and heated second-row seats. The Atlas excelled in interior space, comfortably seating seven adults and offering easy access with a low step-in height. Cargo space was exceptional, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 55.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 96.8 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2022 Toyota Venza seated five in two rows, with good headroom and legroom. The second row had 45.2 inches of hip room, accommodating three adults comfortably. The cabin featured numerous convenience features, including an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, electric parking brake, and ample storage. The Venza offered 28.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 55.1 cubic feet with the second row folded. Toyota focused on creating a quiet cabin with sound-blocking and absorbing insulation, resulting in a serene driving experience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came standard with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, featuring an 8-inch display that expanded to 10.25 inches on higher trims. The SE trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen with last-generation infotainment, while other trims featured the next-generation MIB3 system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Car-Net connected services. However, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and a cumbersome interface.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured an eight-inch touchscreen on LE and XLE trims, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen on the Limited trim. The infotainment system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Limited trim added a nine-speaker JBL audio system and advanced technology features like a head-up display and digital rearview mirror. Toyota Connected Services provided safety, service, and remote connectivity, enhancing the overall user experience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered 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, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and Travel Assist. However, the Atlas had issues with parking sensors and Lane Assist, and its crash-test ratings were not class-leading.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came standard with the Toyota Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and a rearview camera. It also featured eight airbags, Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.