2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas, following significant updates in 2021, saw only minor modifications for its 2022 model. Available in four trims in Canada—Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, and Execline—the Atlas maintained its bold, boxy design. The Execline trim, which we tested, featured R-Line design elements and 21-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its upscale appearance. Inside, the Atlas offered a simple yet premium design, though the use of low-cost materials and hard plastics was a drawback, especially given its nearly $60,000 price tag. The interior's lack of refinement was evident, with unlined storage areas contributing to noise and vibration.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, remained a strong contender in the compact crossover SUV segment. Its stylish design and high-quality materials gave it a luxury feel, and the available turbocharged engine provided impressive power. The CX-5 was praised for its quality, refinement, and sophistication across all trims. However, its small back seat, cramped cargo area, and frustrating infotainment system were potential deal-breakers. The CX-5 was set to be replaced by the CX-50, but it continued to offer a compelling package for those seeking a stylish and well-built compact SUV.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and a 3.6-litre V6. The turbo engine produced 235 hp 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, 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 was criticized for being busy and noisy.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged version with up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. The turbo engine's performance was enhanced by structural and suspension improvements, making the CX-5 feel more refined and responsive. The CX-5's fuel economy was rated at 9.0 L/100 km for the standard engine and 9.8 L/100 km for the turbo. The CX-5 excelled in driving dynamics, offering a firm and connected ride, though it could be choppy on rough surfaces. Its sporty driving experience was complemented by responsive steering and brakes.

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 entry and exit easy. The Atlas offered generous cargo space, with 583 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,572 litres with the third row folded, and 2,741 litres with the second row down. However, the unlined storage areas were a drawback, causing items to slide and create noise.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, while offering improved front seat comfort and support, fell short in terms of interior space. The back seat was cramped, and the cargo area was smaller than many rivals, with 871 litres behind the rear seat and 1,680 litres with the back seat folded. The CX-5's interior materials were top-notch, especially in the Signature trim with Nappa leather, but its technology and storage space were lacking. The infotainment system was frustrating to use, and the lack of a conversational voice recognition system was a notable omission.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came equipped with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, featuring an 8-inch display that expanded to 10.25 inches on higher trims. The MIB3 infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a 12-speaker Fender audio system on the Execline trim. However, the user experience was marred by slow loading times and a cumbersome interface, making it difficult to use while driving.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system featured a 10.25-inch display with sophisticated graphics, but its functionality was a source of frustration. The lack of a helpful voice recognition system and awkward physical controls made it distracting to use. Despite these issues, the system offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a Bose premium audio system on upper trims. The CX-5 also included a front-facing camera and a surround-view camera system for easier parking.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including 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 technology was problematic, misinterpreting road markings and being difficult to disable. The Atlas received decent crash-test ratings but did not earn a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with most i-Activsense features standard across the lineup. The 2.5 Turbo Signature trim added a surround-view camera system, parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5's safety tech operated smoothly and accurately, with a head-up display providing additional alerts. The CX-5 received top crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, earning a Top Safety Pick ranking.