Porsche Macan vs Volkswagen Atlas

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried over with minor modifications from its predecessor, offering a bold and boxy design that was both appealing and upscale, especially in the Execline trim. This top-tier model featured R-Line design elements and 21-inch alloy wheels that enhanced its visual appeal. Inside, the Atlas boasted a simple yet premium design, though the use of low-cost materials like hard, shiny plastics detracted from its overall quality. Despite its nearly $60,000 price tag, the interior lacked refinement, with unlined storage areas contributing to noise and vibration.

In contrast, the 2022 Porsche Macan maintained its sporty and athletic design, with a sloping clamshell hood and rakish roofline that communicated its performance-oriented mission. The Macan S test vehicle, adorned in Volcano Gray with 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels, exuded a sense of luxury and sportiness. Inside, the Macan drew inspiration from other Porsche models, featuring a left-side ignition switch, a large tachometer, and a centre console with haptic touch controls. The red leather, gloss black trim, and silver metallic accents added to the cabin's upscale and purposeful appearance.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-litre V6 engine delivering 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Motion all-wheel drive. The V6 engine, while capable of towing up to 2,268 kilograms, lacked refinement and power, resulting in a less satisfying driving experience. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an Active Control system for different conditions, but its ride quality was criticized for being busy and noisy.

The 2022 Porsche Macan, on the other hand, offered a more exhilarating performance. The base Macan and Macan T were equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 261 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The Macan S featured a twin-turbo 2.9-litre V6 engine with 375 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, capable of accelerating to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package. The Macan's seven-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission and fully variable all-wheel-drive system provided a dynamic driving experience. The Macan S also boasted larger wheels, adaptive damping, and performance upgrades, resulting in impressive grip and stability on challenging roads.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space and comfort, accommodating seven passengers with ample head and legroom, even in the third row. The low step-in height made entry and exit easy, and the test vehicle included rear side-window sunshades for added comfort. The Atlas offered generous cargo space, with 583 litres behind the third row, expandable to 2,741 litres with the second and third rows folded. However, unlined storage areas contributed to unwanted noise.

In contrast, the 2022 Porsche Macan prioritized front-seat comfort with optional 14-way power-adjustable seats, though rear-seat space was limited. The redesigned centre console with haptic touch controls added a modern touch, but the lack of storage space was a drawback. Cargo capacity measured 488 litres behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,503 litres with the rear seats folded. The Macan's interior featured new steering wheels and a clean, technologically advanced design, though some controls required looking away from the road.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came equipped with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, offering an 8-inch display as standard, with a 10.25-inch version available on higher trims. The MIB3 infotainment system provided wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, and SiriusXM satellite radio. However, the user experience was marred by slow loading times and cumbersome navigation controls. The voice recognition system was hit-and-miss, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable for navigation.

The 2022 Porsche Macan featured a 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system called Porsche Communication Management (PCM), offering wireless Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a navigation system. The user experience was intuitive, though the voice recognition system lagged behind competitors. The Macan provided stereo volume and tuning controls separate from the touchscreen, reducing the need for interaction while driving.

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 system was prone to errors, and the Atlas did not earn top safety ratings from the IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2022 Porsche Macan included standard lane-departure warning and a reversing camera, with optional blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The Macan's safety technologies performed as expected, but it lacked advanced driving assistance features. The Macan had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS.