2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2023 Land Rover Defender

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried over with minor modifications from its previous model, offering four trim levels in Canada: Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, and Execline. The Execline trim, which was the top of the Canadian lineup, featured R-Line design elements, including 21-inch alloy wheels that enhanced its upscale appearance. Despite its bold styling, the Atlas's interior, while simple and premium in design, was criticized for its use of low-cost materials, such as hard plastics, which detracted from its overall quality.

In contrast, the 2023 Land Rover Defender was celebrated for its classic, boxy design reminiscent of the old LR4. Its industrial design was consistent, with square-jawed features and steep angles. The Defender paid homage to its 1980s predecessor with tasteful accents like faux-metal step plates and skylights. Available in three body styles, the Defender offered unmatched versatility and a rugged aesthetic that appealed to those seeking a traditional Land Rover look.

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. An optional 3.6-litre V6 engine provided 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. Despite its size, the Atlas's performance was hindered by its lack of refinement and power, with a fuel consumption estimate of 12.2 L/100 km in combined driving. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an AWD system, but its off-road capabilities were limited.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender excelled off-road, with impressive grip, wheel articulation, and clearance. It offered a range of engines, including a turbocharged inline-six and a supercharged V8, with the latter producing 518 horsepower and 461 lb-ft of torque. The Defender's on-road performance was less refined, with noticeable body roll and wind noise. However, its powerful engines and advanced drivetrain made it a formidable off-road vehicle, with fuel economy ratings varying based on engine choice.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas was praised for its spacious interior, accommodating up to seven passengers comfortably. It offered ample cargo space, with 583 litres behind the third row and up to 2,741 litres with seats folded. Despite its size, the Atlas was easy to enter and exit, with numerous storage areas, though many were unlined, causing noise from items sliding around.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender provided exceptional versatility, with seating configurations for up to eight passengers. The Defender 90 offered a unique jump seat, while the 130 featured a standard third row. Cargo space varied by model, with the 130 offering up to 2,180 litres with seats folded. The Defender's interior was designed for practicality, with features like a console refrigerator and power-deployable side steps, enhancing its functionality.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came equipped with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit and an 8-inch touchscreen, expanding to 10.25 inches in higher trims. It featured the MIB3 infotainment system with wireless connectivity and Car-Net services. However, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and cumbersome navigation controls, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender offered Pivi Pro infotainment with a standard 10-inch or optional 11.4-inch touchscreen. It included wireless connectivity, a voice assistant, and connected apps. Higher trims featured advanced technology like a head-up display and a 360-degree camera system, enhancing the Defender's tech appeal.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, its Lane Assist system was problematic, and it did not achieve top safety ratings from the IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender, while unrated by U.S. agencies, received five stars from Euro NCAP. It offered standard safety features like lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking, with optional advanced systems like a 360-degree camera and head-up display.