2022 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was designed with a focus on maintaining familiarity for those transitioning from internal-combustion engines to electric vehicles. It closely resembled its gasoline counterpart, sharing the same basic shape and structure, with subtle differences like a solid panel in the grill and the absence of tailpipes. The XC40 was known for its stylish appearance, featuring details like Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights and a floating roof illusion. Inside, the XC40 boasted a Scandinavian design sensibility, offering an airy and roomy cabin with harmonious lines and premium finishes, positioning it as a genuine luxury SUV.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was crafted by modifying the standard seven-passenger Atlas model, resulting in a more rakish coupe-like appearance. The removal of the third row and a lowered roofline contributed to its bold and sporty look, especially in the Execline trim with 21-inch machined-finish wheels. Despite its stylish exterior, the interior was marred by hard, glossy plastics that detracted from the overall quality impression. However, the Atlas Cross Sport offered a spacious interior with generous rear legroom and a variety of colour combinations that conveyed an upscale appearance.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, driving two electric motors for all-wheel drive. It delivered 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. The XC40 Recharge featured regenerative braking and a one-pedal drive option, enhancing energy efficiency. Its low centre of gravity improved handling, and it offered a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge, with fast-charging capabilities. The gasoline XC40 models, T4 and T5, had turbo four-cylinder engines with 0-100 km/h times of 8.5 and 6.4 seconds, respectively.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and a 3.6-litre V6 producing 276 horsepower. The V6 engine provided a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms, while the turbo-four was limited to 907 kilograms. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. The V6 engine felt more energetic in the two-row Cross Sport, but the ride quality was inconsistent, with a harsh urban ride and a soft highway experience. The Atlas Cross Sport averaged 12.3 L/100 km during testing.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions and comfort features. It had a front trunk for additional storage and ample cabin cubbies for modern essentials. The front seats were comfortable, while the rear seats were suitable for outboard passengers. The XC40 Recharge provided up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the second row folded and had a towing capacity of 907 kilograms.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport shared its wheelbase and interior dimensions with the larger Atlas model, providing exceptional roominess for five adults. It featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats, heated rear seats, and a dual-zone climate control system. The panoramic sunroof added to the spacious feel, and the cargo area offered ample load-floor space with additional storage underneath. However, the lack of lining in storage areas led to potential rattling and scraping noises.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with a range of tech features, including Pilot Assist for highway driving and a heat pump to extend range. It featured a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel with Android Automotive operating system, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play integration. The infotainment system supported over-the-air updates, but the range reporting system, which displayed charge percentage instead of kilometres, could cause range anxiety.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came with a digital instrument cluster and an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Execline trim included a 12-speaker Fender audio system and automatic high beams. However, the user experience with the infotainment system was often frustrating, and pairing a smartphone for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto was recommended for a smoother experience.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It featured an extensive list of standard safety equipment, including collision warning, blind-spot information, and lane-keeping assist. The XC40 Recharge also had a new sensor platform for enhanced active safety features and Volvo’s Connected Safety system for sharing road condition information with other connected Volvo vehicles.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered a range of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a semi-autonomous Park Assist system. While the Atlas Cross Sport received favourable crash-test ratings, it did not earn the highest accolades from safety organizations. The Travel Assist system was accurate but occasionally lacked refinement.