2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2023 Mazda CX-50

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried forward the significant updates from its 2021 model, with only minor modifications. Available in four trim levels in Canada—Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, and Execline—the Atlas offered a range of features and pricing from $41,595 to $57,695, plus a $1,950 destination charge. The Execline trim, which we tested, was the top-tier option, featuring R-Line design elements and 21-inch alloy wheels that enhanced its bold, boxy appearance. Inside, the Atlas boasted a simple yet premium design, though the use of low-cost materials and hard plastics detracted from its overall quality. The interior's lack of refinement was evident, with unlined storage areas contributing to noise and vibration.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-50 showcased a blend of sleek design and rugged elements, with a blunt nose, long hood, and rakish windshield. Its styling was characterized by blistered fender swells and bold cladding, complemented by a black grille, mirror caps, and available 20-inch alloy wheels. The CX-50 introduced a new Meridian Edition with exclusive features like all-terrain tires and a roof-mounted load platform. Inside, the CX-50's interior was driver-focused, featuring quality materials and a mix of analog and digital gauges. The cabin offered comfort with black leather and caramel-coloured stitching, though the off-centre air vent was a design misstep. Overall, the CX-50 presented a good-looking compact crossover with a modern aesthetic.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and a 3.6-litre V6 engine. 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 kilograms 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 kilograms. Despite its power, the V6's performance was considered leisurely, and its fuel consumption was higher at 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-50 offered two engine options: a 187 hp Skyactiv 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and a turbocharged version producing up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. The turbo engine's power varied based on fuel type, with better performance on 93-octane gas. The CX-50's fuel economy was rated at 10.4 L/100 km city, 8.1 highway, and 9.4 combined. The turbocharged engine provided smooth acceleration and a broad power curve, with minimal turbo lag. The CX-50's Mi-Drive system offered different driving modes, though the differences were subtle. The CX-50's ride quality was firmer, and it exhibited some torque steer during acceleration. With a ground clearance of up to 21.8 cm, the CX-50 was capable off-road, though it lacked a downhill assist control system.

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 numerous storage areas, though many were unlined, leading to noise. Cargo space was exceptional, with 583 litres behind the third row, expandable to 2,741 litres with seats folded. The Atlas's interior featured cloth seats in the base trim, with leatherette and genuine leather available in higher trims, along with a panoramic sunroof and ventilated front seats.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 provided a comfortable interior with power-adjustable heated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. The ventilated front seats and dual-zone climate control added to the comfort. The CX-50's back seat was roomy, and rear doors opened wide for easy access. Storage space was adequate, though some opportunities for additional bins were missed. The CX-50 offered 889 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,595 litres with seats folded. The load floor was long but narrow between the wheel wells, with side bins and hooks for securing items.

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 Atlas Trendline had a 6.5-inch touchscreen with basic connectivity, while other trims featured the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and more. The user experience was hindered by slow loading times and a cumbersome interface. The Execline trim included a 12-speaker Fender audio system, but the navigation and voice recognition systems were unreliable.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Historically, Mazda Connect lacked touchscreen control, relying on console buttons and knobs, which could be distracting. However, the CX-50 introduced touchscreen functionality for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available Bose 12-speaker sound system provided a satisfying audio experience. The CX-50 also offered an Active Driving Display, projecting data within the driver's line of sight, including blind-spot warnings.

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 an adaptive front lighting system. The Execline trim featured a surround-view camera and Park Assist technology. However, the Lane Assist system had issues with old construction markings, and the Atlas's crash-test ratings were decent but not class-leading.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 was rated as a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, though it fell short of the Top Safety Pick+ designation. It offered a generous standard package of driving assistance systems, including active blind-spot monitoring and Traffic Jam Assist. The surround-view camera and parking sensors were particularly useful. However, the adaptive cruise control system occasionally failed to recognize slower vehicles cutting in, requiring manual intervention.