2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

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 and 21-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its upscale appearance. Despite its bold exterior styling, the interior materials were crafted to a low cost point, with hard, shiny plastics detracting from the overall quality. The interior design was simple yet premium, but improvements in material quality were needed to match the SUV's price point.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented a more luxurious and sophisticated design. The Aviator Grand Touring model combined a twin-turbo V6 with a hybrid system, offering a modern Lincoln face and grille. However, the wheel designs on the Grand Touring were considered too plain for its price. The interior was lavish, featuring patterned metal trim, chrome accents, and a panoramic glass sunroof. While the materials were mostly high-end, some chrome detailing felt cheap. The Aviator's key fob was also criticized for its lightweight, plastic feel, but the optional Phone As A Key technology offered a modern alternative.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, requiring premium fuel for maximum output. The V6 engine, standard on the Execline trim, produced 276 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kg. Despite its size, the Atlas's performance was considered leisurely, with a gritty engine note and a lack of refinement. The 4Motion AWD system provided various driving modes, but the ride quality was criticized for being busy and noisy.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, delivered impressive power with 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque. It offered 34 km of electric driving range and averaged 10.3 L/100 km in hybrid mode. The Aviator's driving modes allowed for efficient power management, but the drivetrain was sometimes unpredictable. The brake pedal also exhibited inconsistent behaviour. The available Dynamic Handling Package improved ride quality, but the Aviator was not particularly engaging to drive, focusing more on comfort and isolation.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space, comfortably seating seven adults with ample head and legroom. The step-in height was low, and the cargo space was exceptional, offering up to 2,741 litres with seats folded. However, unlined storage areas caused unwanted noise.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like massaging, 30-way adjustable front seats, and a four-zone climate control system. While the second-row captain’s chairs were roomy, the third row was cramped and lacked leg support. Cargo space was limited to 519 litres with all seats in use, expanding to 2,200 litres with seats folded.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas featured the Digital Cockpit instrument cluster and the MIB3 infotainment system with wireless connectivity options. However, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and cumbersome navigation controls. Voice recognition was unreliable, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator included a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition accuracy. The Revel Ultima 3D audio system was a highlight, and the Phone As A Key system offered modern convenience. The head-up display was effective even with polarized sunglasses, and parking sensors aided manoeuvrability.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. However, Lane Assist had issues with misinterpreting road markings. The Atlas received decent crash-test ratings but did not earn a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator came equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 systems, offering features like adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The driver aids performed well on highways but were less reliable in dense traffic. The Aviator earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.