2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2022 Volvo XC40

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was designed with a focus on easing the transition from traditional internal-combustion engines to electric vehicles. It closely resembled its gasoline counterpart, maintaining the same basic shape and structure, with subtle modifications to highlight its electric nature. The most noticeable change was the solid panel in place of the traditional grill, which helped redirect airflow. Other distinguishing features included the enlarged fuel-filler flap for the charge port, unique 19-inch alloy wheels, and the absence of tailpipes. The XC40's design was marked by its Scandinavian sensibility, offering a premium feel with its Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights and a floating roof illusion created by thin pillars. The interior was spacious and airy, with harmonious design elements and a luxurious finish, positioning the XC40 Recharge as a genuine luxury SUV.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas, having undergone significant updates in 2021, carried over with minor modifications. It was available in four trim levels in Canada, with the Execline trim being the most equipped and expensive. The Execline featured R-Line design elements and 21-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its upscale appearance. The Atlas was big and boxy, with a design that was appealing yet somewhat mismatched with its wheel choices. Inside, the Atlas offered a simple yet premium design, though some materials were crafted to a low cost point, leading to a less refined feel. The interior was spacious, accommodating seven passengers comfortably, with easy access due to its low step-in height. However, the use of hard, shiny plastics and unlined storage areas detracted from the overall quality, causing unwanted noise and vibration.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, driving two permanent magnet electric motors for all-wheel drive. It delivered an impressive 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. The Recharge featured regenerative braking, which recaptured energy during deceleration, and offered a one-pedal driving mode to maximize efficiency. Its low centre of gravity, due to the battery placement, contributed to its stable and planted handling. The XC40 Recharge had a combined fuel efficiency rating of 2.8 Le/100 km and a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge. It could be charged from 0-80% in 40 minutes using DC fast-charging. The gasoline XC40 models, T4 and T5, offered 0-100 km/h times of 8.5 and 6.4 seconds, respectively, with combined fuel efficiency ratings of 9.3 and 9.4 L/100 km.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a standard turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, requiring premium fuel for optimal performance. It had a towing capacity of 907 kilograms and a combined fuel consumption rating of 10.6 L/100 km. The optional 3.6-litre V6 engine, standard on the Execline trim, produced 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. However, its acceleration was leisurely, and the engine design felt outdated. The V6 had a combined fuel consumption estimate of 12.2 L/100 km. The Atlas featured multiple driving modes and an Active Control system for different conditions. Its handling was sound, but the ride quality was affected by the 21-inch wheels and low-profile tires, leading to a busy ride and road noise. The Atlas's suspension tuning resulted in added body float, impacting its performance on undulating roads.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions and comfort features. The absence of a gasoline engine allowed for a front trunk, or "frunk," providing additional storage space. Inside, the cabin featured ample cubbies and nooks for essentials, with comfortable front seats and adequate rear seating for outboard passengers. The XC40 Recharge offered up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and had a towing capacity of 907 kilograms.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas boasted a roomy interior with comfortable seating for seven passengers, even in the third row. The step-in height was low, facilitating easy access. The Atlas offered numerous storage areas, though many were unlined, leading to unwanted noise. Cargo space was exceptional, with 583 litres behind the third row, 1,572 litres with the third row folded, and 2,741 litres with the second row down. These figures surpassed those of the full-size Nissan Armada, making the Atlas a highly accommodating vehicle in its class.

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, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play integration. The system supported over-the-air updates, though the range reporting method, showing percentage rather than distance, could induce range anxiety.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came standard with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, featuring an 8-inch display that expanded to 10.25 inches on higher trims. The Trendline had a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while other trims featured the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless connectivity, and Car-Net services. The user experience was hindered by slow loading times and cumbersome controls. The Execline trim included a 12-speaker Fender audio system, though the embedded navigation and voice recognition systems were less reliable than using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

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 and avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and a high-strength protective cage for the battery. A new sensor platform enhanced active safety features, and Volvo's Connected Safety system shared road condition data with other connected vehicles.

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 a surround-view camera system. However, the Lane Assist technology had issues with old construction markings, and the system's controls were distracting. The Atlas did not earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, and its frontal-impact ratings from the NHTSA were four stars.