2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2023 Genesis GV80

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried forward with minimal changes from its predecessor, focusing on simplifying its lineup to six trim levels, including the new SEL R-Line Black. This model boasted more standard features than before, with pricing ranging from $34,355 to $51,505, plus a destination charge. The SEL Premium R-Line trim, with its Aurora Red paint and second-row captain’s chairs, reached $53,790. The Atlas's design was big and boxy, with 21-inch wheels enhancing its upscale appearance, though some wheel choices didn't quite match its bold styling. Inside, the Atlas offered a simple yet premium design, but the use of low-cost materials and hard plastics was a letdown for a vehicle nearing $54,000.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille, stretching over 16 feet in length. Standard 19-inch wheels were upgraded to 22-inch alloys in the Prestige trim, complementing the elegant matte Brunswick Green paint. The interior continued the dark green theme with quilted leather seats, a split dash with horizontal air vents, and a center console featuring three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes. The two-spoke steering wheel added a unique touch. While the 14.5-inch infotainment screen seemed awkwardly placed, the spacious and luxurious interior made it a pleasant environment.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, requiring premium fuel for optimal performance. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, it provided a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds and fuel economy of 22-23 mpg combined. The 3.6-liter V6 engine, standard on higher trims, delivered 276 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and fuel economy of 19-20 mpg combined. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an AWD system with Active Control calibrations. Despite its size, the Atlas was easy to maneuver, though its ride quality was mixed, with a busy ride on rough surfaces and a softer feel on smoother roads.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 came with AWD and a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, or a turbo 3.5-liter V6 with 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. While not the quickest in its class, the GV80 excelled in highway driving, offering smooth power delivery and shifts. Its electronically controlled suspension scanned the road for roughness, enhancing ride comfort. Active noise cancellation further contributed to a quiet and smooth driving experience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas, with its discontinuation of the base S trim, offered V-Tex leatherette seating as standard, along with heated front seats and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Higher trims added features like tri-zone climate control, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof. The Atlas was praised for its roomy interior, accommodating seven adults comfortably, and its low step-in height. Cargo space was exceptional, with up to 96.8 cubic feet available with seats folded. However, unlined storage areas led to unwanted noise from items sliding around.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 focused on luxury with features like heated and ventilated seats, an Ergo Motion driver’s seat, and sumptuous Nappa leather upholstery. A third row was optional, though legroom was limited. The GV80 offered convenience features like Genesis puddle lamps, a proximity key, and a digital key. Tri-zone climate control and an optional 21-speaker stereo system enhanced comfort and entertainment. Cargo space was generous, with 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 84 cubic feet with seats folded. The GV80 also boasted a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas featured the Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, with an 8-inch display standard and a 10.25-inch version on higher trims. The SE trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while others had the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and more. Car-Net connected services offered various plans, but the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and cumbersome navigation. The SEL Premium R-Line included a 12-speaker Fender sound system, though the infotainment system's usability was inconsistent.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 came with a 14.5-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. While the infotainment screen was slightly out of reach, the dial offered a tactile experience, though navigating through icons was cumbersome. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, but not wirelessly. The GV80 featured remote smart parking assist, allowing the car to park itself without the driver inside, adding a cool factor to its tech offerings.

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 the full IQ Drive suite with lane-keeping assistance and emergency assist. However, the Lane Assist system had issues with old construction markings, and crash-test ratings were decent but not class-leading, lacking a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was equipped with advanced driver aids like forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. A standout feature was the blind-spot video feed in the digital gauge cluster. Highway Drive Assist provided hands-on/eyes-up driving aid, though it struggled with sun glare. The GV80 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and high marks from the IIHS, though its headlights and LATCH system were rated as Acceptable.