2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport presented a unique blend of SUV ruggedness and car-like features, with its low roofline and aggressively-raked rear hatch. Despite its attempt to mimic luxury crossover coupes, the styling was somewhat awkward, particularly with the fake exhaust tips on the rear bumper of the SEL Premium model. The Cross Sport was shorter and lower than the seven-seat Atlas, sharing the same wheelbase and platform. It featured standard LED lighting and varied wheel sizes across trims, with the R-Line models adding sportier exterior elements. Inside, the minimalist design was visually appealing but marred by subpar materials, with leather upholstery feeling rubbery and an overuse of hard and shiny plastics. The color scheme was dark and uninviting, and the flat-bottom steering wheel seemed out of place for a non-performance vehicle.

In contrast, the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover's redesign was more evolutionary, maintaining a familiar look with subtle updates. The most notable change was at the rear, where thin LED strips replaced the old square taillights. The Range Rover emphasized its size, especially in the long-wheelbase version, which added eight inches in length. Inside, the cabin was simplified with fewer buttons, featuring a larger touchscreen for a modern look. Materials were of excellent quality, with premium leather and rich wood trim, and the interior exuded a luxurious aroma. The Range Rover's solid build was evident, with no creaks even on rough roads, and it offered a more refined interior than many of its luxury SUV competitors.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two powertrain options: a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 3.6-liter V6 engine with 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The VR6 engine provided lively acceleration from a stop but lacked midrange power, and the transmission was slow to react. The ride quality was harsh, with noticeable bumps and potholes, and the cabin was noisy. The Cross Sport had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds with the VR6 engine and 2,000 pounds with the four-cylinder. It featured multiple drive modes and 8 inches of ground clearance, but it wasn't particularly sporty or off-road capable.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrains: a base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine and a mild hybrid system producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, and an optional P530 with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine delivering 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The P400 provided effortless acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds, and smooth gear shifts. The Range Rover was agile for its size, with well-managed body roll and a calm driving experience. It featured rear-wheel steering for easy maneuverability and was highly capable off-road, thanks to the Terrain Response system. The ride quality was smooth and quiet, making it one of the most comfortable luxury SUVs available.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered competitive interior space for a two-row midsize crossover, with ample front-seat and rear-seat legroom. However, rear headroom was limited due to the sloping roofline. Cargo space was above average, with 40.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 77.8 cubic feet with them folded. The second-row seats had a 60/40 split-fold and 14-degree recline. The Cross Sport included various storage options, such as cargo nets, cupholders, and a center console, along with a foot-activated tailgate on higher trims.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover provided generous space in the first two rows, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. Front seats were cushioned for comfort, with available massage functions. Storage options included two glove boxes, a wireless charging pad, and a large center console. The second row offered ample space for tall passengers, with power recline and sliding adjustments. The optional third row was accessible via a button, though headroom was limited for adults. Cargo space was 17.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 43.1 cubic feet with it folded, and up to 93 cubic feet with the second row down. The split tailgate and adjustable air suspension aided in loading cargo.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport featured two infotainment systems: the base MIB2 with a 6.5-inch touchscreen and the MIB3 with an 8-inch touchscreen on higher trims. Both systems included USB-C ports, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The MIB3 added multiple-device pairing and updated voice recognition. Higher trims included a Digital Cockpit display and a 12-speaker Fender audio system. The MIB3 system was slow to load, and the audio quality was lacking. The Digital Cockpit allowed for customizable displays, and analog controls were available for basic functions.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover boasted a new Pivi Pro infotainment system with a 13-inch touchscreen, offering sharper graphics and quicker responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a wireless charging pad. The Meridian audio system provided excellent sound quality, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade. Other tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote parking, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a smartphone app for remote control and monitoring.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport received top "Good" scores in IIHS crash tests, with mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. Unique to the Cross Sport were the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and Intelligent Crash Response System. New for 2021 were Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, available on higher trims.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover had not been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The surround-view cameras were particularly useful for off-roading. While adequately equipped, some competitors offered additional safety features not available on the Range Rover.