Toyota Highlander 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, including 21-inch alloy wheels that complemented its exaggerated fenders. However, the interior, while simple and premium in appearance, was let down by low-cost materials, such as hard, shiny plastics that detracted from the overall quality. Despite these drawbacks, the Atlas provided a spacious and comfortable cabin, with ample room for seven passengers and a low step-in height for easy access.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander boasted a modern and somewhat aggressive front-end design, with flared fender arches and a distinctive third-row window. The XSE trim, in particular, stood out with its bold red leather interior and sport-tuned suspension, offering a unique blend of style and performance. The Highlander provided a spacious cabin with clever storage solutions, making it ideal for families. While the third row was less accommodating for adults, the second-row captain’s chairs offered comfort and convenience. The Highlander’s interior was well-equipped, with features like a power liftgate and ambient lighting enhancing its appeal.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and a 3.6-litre V6. The turbocharged engine produced 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, but required premium fuel to achieve these outputs. It had a towing capacity of 907 kilograms and a fuel consumption rating of 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres. The V6 engine, standard on the Execline trim, delivered 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. However, its performance was considered leisurely, and the engine's design felt outdated. 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 on certain surfaces.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander came equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided better pickup once the vehicle was moving, with a throaty exhaust note during acceleration. The Highlander’s handling was commendable, with the XSE trim’s sport-tuned suspension reducing body roll while maintaining a comfortable ride. It had a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms, matching the Atlas, and offered a smooth driving experience with its well-weighted steering and composed handling on various road conditions.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space, offering a roomy cabin that comfortably seated seven passengers. The third row provided sufficient head and legroom for adults, and the low step-in height made entry and exit easy. The Atlas featured numerous storage areas, though many were unlined, leading to unwanted noise. Cargo space was exceptional, with 583 litres available behind the third row, expanding to 2,741 litres with the second and third rows folded.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander offered up to 2,387 litres of cargo space with the second and third rows folded. With all seats in use, it provided 453 litres of space behind the third row. The Highlander’s interior was designed with practicality in mind, featuring deep cargo pockets, multiple cupholders, and a centre console with ample storage. The second-row captain’s chairs in the XSE trim added convenience, though the third row was less suitable for adults on longer journeys.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came standard with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, featuring an 8-inch display that expanded to 10.25 inches in higher trims. The Trendline trim had a basic 6.5-inch touchscreen, while other trims featured the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Fender audio system in the Execline trim. However, the user experience was hindered by a slow-loading infotainment system and cumbersome navigation controls.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, supported by hard buttons for ease of use. The XSE trim included a wireless charging pad and multiple USB ports. A larger 12.3-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL audio system were available, though the base touchscreen was praised for its straightforward layout and functionality.

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 criticized for its sensitivity to road markings, and the Atlas did not earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander came standard with Toyota Safety Sense, which included forward collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and dynamic radar cruise control. All trims featured blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Highlander’s lane-keeping systems were noted for being overly active, but it earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, highlighting its strong safety credentials.