2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2023 Genesis GV70

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried over with minor modifications from its predecessor, offering a big and boxy design that was both appealing and upscale, especially in the Execline trim with its R-Line design elements and 21-inch alloy wheels. However, the interior, while excellent in design, was let down by low-cost materials, including hard, shiny plastics that detracted from the overall quality. Despite these drawbacks, the Atlas provided a spacious and comfortable cabin, though improvements in material quality were needed to match its nearly $60,000 price tag.

In contrast, the 2023 Genesis GV70 boasted a design that cleverly connected it to the G70 compact luxury sedan, with styling elements like split-bar headlights and a strong chrome line. The interior was a standout, featuring top-notch materials and a blend of contemporary and classic aesthetics. The GV70's cabin exuded luxury with its excellent fit and finish, and the climate controls and touchscreen were seamlessly integrated into the dash. The GV70's design and interior quality firmly established its luxury credentials, making it a strong contender in the luxury SUV market.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. While the turbo-four provided decent power, it required premium fuel for optimal performance and had a limited towing capacity of 907 kg. The V6, though more powerful, was criticized for its lack of refinement and efficiency, with a combined fuel consumption estimate of 12.2 L/100 km. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an AWD system with Active Control calibrations, but its ride quality was mixed, with a busy ride on certain surfaces and a need for an adaptive-damping suspension option.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered a more dynamic performance with its engine options. The 2.5T model featured a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.5T model boasted a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 engine with 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. The GV70's performance was well-rounded, blending comfort and sharp handling. The Electrified GV70, with its dual electric motors, delivered 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, with a Boost Mode increasing output to 483 horsepower. The electric version offered a range of 383 km and fast charging capabilities, though it leaned slightly more towards comfort than sportiness.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space, offering a roomy cabin with comfortable seating for seven passengers. The step-in height was low, making it easy to access, and the third-row seats provided sufficient head and legroom for adults. The Atlas also featured numerous storage areas, though many were unlined, leading to unwanted noise. 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 2023 Genesis GV70 provided 1,611 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 818 litres with the seats in use, making it competitive in the compact luxury SUV segment. The GV70's interior featured decently large cupholders and a helpful tray in the centre console. While the front seats were comfortable and easy to adjust, the rear seats had tighter legroom, requiring front-row occupants to slide their seats forward. The rear bench did recline, offering some flexibility for passenger comfort.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came equipped with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, with an 8-inch display standard and a 10.25-inch display available on higher trims. The infotainment system varied by trim, with the Trendline featuring a 6.5-inch touchscreen and higher trims offering the MIB3 system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Fender premium audio system. However, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and a cumbersome tuning process.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with large icons and logical menu navigation. Genesis also provided helpful buttons and a rotary dial for control, though its proximity to the rotary shifter could cause confusion. The GV70 came with four USB ports, wireless charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a nine-speaker stereo system, with additional features like ambient lighting and a Lexicon 18-speaker audio system available.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a comprehensive suite 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 a surround-view camera system. However, the Lane Assist system had issues with old construction markings, and the Atlas did not earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, receiving four-star ratings in frontal-impact tests from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 came equipped with a full suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and highway driving assist. The GV70 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, the highest honour, and offered additional features like a blind-spot camera system and a 360-degree parking camera system on higher trims.