2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport vs 2022 Acura MDX

2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
$30,855MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2022 Acura MDX
2022 Acura MDX
$48,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
$30,855MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Acura MDX
$48,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$30,855

MSRP

$48,000

Listings

490

Listings

649

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

5.8 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Pros

  • Stylish design

  • Standard advanced safety features

  • Easy-to-use technology

Cons

  • Interior materials feel cheap

  • Irritating transmission

  • Poor ride quality

Pros

  • Stylish design

  • Great handling

  • Excellent value for money

Cons

  • Cramped third row

2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Reviews Summary

Launched for the 2020 model year, the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a two-row, five-seat version of the Volkswagen Atlas family crossover, itself a fairly new model, having launched for the 2018 model year.

The two-row midsize crossover segment is experiencing a resurgence, with newer models like the Cross Sport, Toyota Venza, Honda Passport, and Chevrolet Blazer joining the aging Ford Edge and Nissan Murano. VW also named the Jeep Grand Cherokee as a competitor to the Cross Sport, but the Jeep is a more traditional SUV.

Typically for a model entering its sophomore year, the Cross Sport doesn’t get many updates for 2021. The only changes are VW’s new MIB3 infotainment system for most trim levels, and two new driver-assist features: Travel Assist and Emergency Assist.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is available in eight trim levels: S, SE, SE with Technology, SE with Technology R-Line, SEL, SEL R-Line, SEL Premium, and SEL Premium R-Line. Buyers must also choose between front-wheel drive (FWD) and 4Motion all-wheel drive (AWD), and four-cylinder or six-cylinder engines. Our test car was a six-cylinder SEL Premium model with 4Motion.

2022 Acura MDX Reviews Summary

Skipping the 2021 model year, the Acura MDX leaps ahead into 2022, riding on a new platform with a new exterior design, new interior look, refreshed platform, and a more assertive attitude. Now entering its fourth generation of production since its introduction as a 2001 model, the MDX rewards its loyal audience with improvements across the board—while retaining its essential nature.
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 235 hp I4

Engine

3.5L 290 hp V6

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

7

Horsepower

235 hp @ 5000 rpm

Horsepower

290 hp @ 6200 rpm

MPG City

21

MPG City

19

MPG Highway

24

MPG Highway

26
2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
$30,855MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Acura MDX
2022 Acura MDX
$48,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
$30,855MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Acura MDX
$48,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$30,855
$48,000
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.8

4.6

Expert reviews

5.8 out of 10

Read full review

8.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Stylish design

  • Standard advanced safety features

  • Easy-to-use technology

Cons

  • Interior materials feel cheap

  • Irritating transmission

  • Poor ride quality

Pros

  • Stylish design

  • Great handling

  • Excellent value for money

Cons

  • Cramped third row

Summary

Launched for the 2020 model year, the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a two-row, five-seat version of the Volkswagen Atlas family crossover, itself a fairly new model, having launched for the 2018 model year.

The two-row midsize crossover segment is experiencing a resurgence, with newer models like the Cross Sport, Toyota Venza, Honda Passport, and Chevrolet Blazer joining the aging Ford Edge and Nissan Murano. VW also named the Jeep Grand Cherokee as a competitor to the Cross Sport, but the Jeep is a more traditional SUV.

Typically for a model entering its sophomore year, the Cross Sport doesn’t get many updates for 2021. The only changes are VW’s new MIB3 infotainment system for most trim levels, and two new driver-assist features: Travel Assist and Emergency Assist.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is available in eight trim levels: S, SE, SE with Technology, SE with Technology R-Line, SEL, SEL R-Line, SEL Premium, and SEL Premium R-Line. Buyers must also choose between front-wheel drive (FWD) and 4Motion all-wheel drive (AWD), and four-cylinder or six-cylinder engines. Our test car was a six-cylinder SEL Premium model with 4Motion.

Skipping the 2021 model year, the Acura MDX leaps ahead into 2022, riding on a new platform with a new exterior design, new interior look, refreshed platform, and a more assertive attitude. Now entering its fourth generation of production since its introduction as a 2001 model, the MDX rewards its loyal audience with improvements across the board—while retaining its essential nature.
Video
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.0L 235 hp I4
3.5L 290 hp V6
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
7
Horsepower
235 hp @ 5000 rpm
290 hp @ 6200 rpm
MPG City
21
19
MPG Highway
24
26
Look and feel

2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

5/10

2022 Acura MDX

5/10
According to CarGurus experts, the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport scores 5 out of 10 for look and feel, while the 2022 Acura MDX scores 8 out of 10. When comparing the two, the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport carries over most of the same sheet metal from the regular Atlas, but with a low roofline and aggressively-raked rear hatch, giving it a unique look but receiving mixed reviews for its styling. On the other hand, the 2022 Acura MDX showcases a modern and sportier design with luxurious touches, earning higher marks for its sleek exterior design and high-quality craftsmanship.
Picture of 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Picture of 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Picture of 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Picture of 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Picture of 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Picture of 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Picture of 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Picture of 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Performance

2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

5/10

2022 Acura MDX

8/10
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport 5 out of 10 for performance, while the 2022 Acura MDX scores 8 out of 10. The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offers two engine options, with the V6 model feeling more responsive but lacking refinement in handling and ride quality. On the contrary, the Acura MDX comes with a powerful V6 engine, improved suspension, and enhanced steering, providing a smooth and engaging driving experience.
Form and function

2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

7/10

2022 Acura MDX

8/10
In terms of cargo capacity, the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offers 40.3 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 77.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down, providing ample space for belongings. On the other hand, the 2022 Acura MDX offers a versatile layout with between 16.3 and 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 95 cubic feet with both rear rows folded down, catering to various storage needs.
Technology

2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

6/10

2022 Acura MDX

8/10
The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport scores 6 out of 10 for technology, while the 2022 Acura MDX scores 8 out of 10. The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport comes with advanced infotainment features but falls short in terms of functionality and user experience. In contrast, the Acura MDX boasts a premium sound system, intuitive navigation, wireless device charging, and a multitude of driver-assist technologies, elevating the overall tech experience.
Safety

2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

7/10

2022 Acura MDX

8/10
For safety ratings, the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport receives 7 out of 10, while the 2022 Acura MDX scores 8 out of 10. The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offers standard safety features but lacks in advanced driver assistance options compared to competitors. Conversely, the Acura MDX comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies and structural enhancements, ensuring a secure driving environment for occupants.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is 5.8 out of 10, while the 2022 Acura MDX scores 8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, we recommend the 2022 Acura MDX for consumers looking for a luxurious and versatile SUV with advanced technology and safety features.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is 5.8 out of 10, while the 2022 Acura MDX scores 8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, we recommend the 2022 Acura MDX for consumers looking for a luxurious and versatile SUV with advanced technology and safety features.

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By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.

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