2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried forward the significant updates from its 2021 model, with only minor modifications. Available in four trim levels 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, which we tested, was the top-tier option, featuring R-Line design elements like 21-inch alloy wheels that enhanced its upscale appearance. Despite its bold exterior styling, the interior materials were somewhat disappointing, with an abundance of hard plastics that detracted from the overall quality. The Atlas's interior design was simple yet premium, but it lacked the refinement expected at its price point.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX offered both standard and Type S versions, with various trim packages enhancing its equipment levels. In Canada, the MDX's pricing ranged from $59,300 to $84,400, excluding a $2,375 destination charge. Our test vehicle was the Type S Ultra trim, featuring exclusive elements like Apex Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid interior. The MDX Type S was the first Acura SUV to bear the Type S badge, with subtle design cues and performance enhancements. However, the interior's gloss black plastic and electronic transmission switchgear were not user-friendly, and the overall quality fell short of the luxury expectations set by its high price.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and a 3.6-litre V6 engine. The turbocharged engine produced 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, requiring premium fuel for optimal performance. It had a towing capacity of 907 kg and a fuel consumption rating of 10.6 L/100 km. The V6 engine, standard on the Execline trim, delivered 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kg. However, its acceleration was leisurely, and the drivetrain lacked refinement. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an Active Control system for different terrains, but its ride quality was inconsistent, with a busy ride and road noise intrusion.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S stood out with its turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, generating 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Despite the power increase over the standard V6, the Type S's performance upgrades didn't create a cohesive driving experience. The 10-speed automatic transmission and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system provided dynamic handling, but the ride lacked compliance, and the brakes were difficult to modulate. The MDX Type S averaged 13.9 L/100 km during testing, falling short of its official fuel consumption rating. While the MDX Type S offered various driving modes, its performance enhancements didn't translate into a satisfying driving experience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space and comfort, seating seven passengers with ample head and legroom, even in the third row. The step-in height was low, making it easy to access, and the cargo space was exceptional, with 583 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,741 litres with the seats folded. However, the unlined storage areas caused items to rattle and slide around, creating unwanted noise.

The 2023 Acura MDX provided three rows of seating with flexible second-row configurations. The Type S Ultra trim featured luxurious quilted leather seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. However, the seats didn't offer the expected support for spirited driving. The MDX's third row was best suited for children, and the interior design prioritized style over storage space. The cargo area offered 461 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,021 litres with the seats folded, with thoughtful features like a hands-free liftgate and underfloor storage.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came standard with the Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, featuring an 8-inch display that expanded to 10.25 inches on higher trims. The MIB3 infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and cumbersome controls. The voice recognition system was unreliable, making it preferable to use smartphone integration for navigation.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display, but the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) was not intuitive. The lack of a touchscreen and the TTI's design limited storage space and obstructed the wireless charging pad. However, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In, providing alternative ways to interact with the infotainment system. The ELS Studio 3D audio system delivered impressive sound quality, and the head-up display added convenience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. However, the Lane Assist system was prone to false alerts, and the Atlas's crash-test ratings were not class-leading, with four-star frontal-impact ratings from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Acura MDX included a robust set of safety features, such as collision mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX's systems generally operated with accuracy, but the lane departure warnings were intrusive, and the adaptive cruise control was slow to resume speed. The MDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four-star frontal-impact ratings.