2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried over from its predecessor with only minor modifications, maintaining its appeal with a bold and boxy design. 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, the top of the line, featured R-Line design elements, including 21-inch alloy wheels that enhanced its upscale look. However, despite its impressive exterior, the interior materials were somewhat disappointing, with an abundance of hard, shiny plastics that detracted from the overall quality. The interior design was simple yet premium, but the lack of refinement in materials was noticeable, especially given the SUV's price point.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX retained a design reminiscent of its first-generation model, with the signature spindle grille and LED headlights being the most modern touches. Inside, the GX boasted a cabin crafted with care, exuding the smooth refinement Lexus is known for. The interior was quiet, with the V8 engine's roar barely audible. Available in Standard, Premium, and Executive trims, the GX's pricing ranged from $72,100 to $83,750, excluding a $2,145 destination charge. The Black Line Special Edition, based on the Premium trim, added unique styling elements. Despite its dated design, the GX's interior quality and comfort were commendable, though the overall themes remained similar to its predecessors.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a standard turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and an optional 3.6-litre V6. The turbocharged engine produced 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, requiring premium fuel for optimal performance. 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 However, its performance was considered leisurely, and the engine's design felt outdated.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 mixed, with a busy ride on certain surfaces and noticeable body float on undulating roads.

The 2022 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-litre V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system, provided a satisfying engine note and a maximum towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms. The GX's fuel consumption was estimated at 14.5 litres per 100 kilometres, with a test result of 14.0 L/100 km. The GX featured a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) that improved stability and off-road capability. Despite its age, the GX offered a surprisingly agreeable driving experience, though the steering was slow and heavy, and the brake pedal was touchy.

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 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.

The 2022 Lexus GX provided an elevated driving position and clear visibility, with comfortable seats and well-padded interior surfaces. However, the rear door openings were narrow, making entry to the back seats challenging. The third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access, reducing cargo space when in use. The GX's tailgate swung open to the side, complicating loading in tight spaces. Cargo capacity was limited, with 328 litres behind the third row, 1,322 litres with the third row folded, and 1,833 litres with the second row down.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came equipped with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, featuring an 8-inch display that expanded to 10.25 inches on higher trims. The Trendline trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen with basic connectivity features, while other trims offered the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless connectivity, and Car-Net connected services. However, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and cumbersome controls.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and navigation, along with a CD player and Lexus Enform connected services. The stereo controls were awkwardly placed, but the voice recognition technology was excellent. The GX also featured Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view cameras.

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 was problematic, and the Atlas did not receive top safety ratings from the IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2022 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings but included the Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and other features. It also had blind-spot monitoring and Safety Connect services. However, the GX lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors, which could be a drawback for some buyers.