2023 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried over from its predecessor with only minor modifications, maintaining its appeal with a bold, boxy design. The Execline trim, the top of the Canadian lineup, featured R-Line design elements and 21-inch alloy wheels that enhanced its upscale appearance. However, the interior, while simple and premium in design, was let down by low-cost materials, including hard, shiny plastics that detracted from the overall quality. Despite its spaciousness, the Atlas's interior needed improvements in material quality to match its price point.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid presented a more refined and modern aesthetic. The RX 350h Luxury model, with its Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, exuded luxury, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance offered a sportier vibe with its black interior and artificial suede accents. The RX's exterior design, though not groundbreaking, was sleek and contemporary, with the RX 500h standing out due to its performance-oriented styling. Inside, the RX adopted a minimalist approach, with a new infotainment system and ambient lighting enhancing the cabin's appeal.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and a 3.6-litre V6. 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 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kg. However, its performance was considered leisurely, and it had a 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 and handling were criticized for lack of refinement.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered two hybrid powertrains. The RX 350h combined a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque, with a fuel consumption estimate of 6.5 L/100 km. The RX 500h F Sport Performance featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine and a hybrid system, delivering 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, with a fuel consumption estimate of 8.6 L/100 km. The RX 500h's adaptive damping suspension and rear-wheel steering provided a dynamic driving experience, while the RX 350h offered a more efficient and comfortable ride. The RX's hybrid systems were praised for their smooth operation and fuel efficiency.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space and comfort, seating seven people 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 generous, offering 583 litres behind the third row, 1,572 litres with the third row folded, and 2,741 litres with the second row down. However, the unlined storage areas caused items to rattle and slide, creating unwanted noise.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid provided a comfortable and luxurious interior, especially in the RX 350h Luxury trim with its premium leather and climate control features. The RX 500h F Sport Performance offered sportier seating with larger bolsters. The hybrid's battery placement under the rear seat slightly raised the seat cushion, affecting rear headroom, but legroom and foot space remained adequate. The RX's cargo space improved over the previous model, with 838 litres behind the rear seat and 1,308 litres with the seat folded, though it still lagged behind some competitors.

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

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, requiring subscription services for full functionality. The system included cloud-based navigation and an Intelligent Assistant, which generally performed well but had some limitations. The touchscreen's single-menu view and lack of a tuning knob were drawbacks, and the head-up display's visibility issues with polarized sunglasses were noted. Despite these issues, the RX's technology was a significant improvement over previous models.

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 advanced lighting systems. However, the Lane Assist system had issues with misinterpreting road markings, and the Atlas's crash-test ratings were not class-leading.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid featured Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, with new motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist were also available. While the safety systems generally performed well, some features, like the curve-speed reduction and front cross-traffic alert, had limitations. The driver monitoring system could be obstructed by certain driving positions, leading to frequent warnings.