2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport vs 2022 Acura MDX
Overview | |
MSRP$30,855 | MSRP$48,000 |
Listings490 | Listings649 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews5.8 out of 10 | Expert reviews8.0 out of 10 |
Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
|
2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Reviews SummaryLaunched 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 SummarySkipping 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 | |
Engine2.0L 235 hp I4 | Engine3.5L 290 hp V6 |
Drive TrainFWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity7 |
Horsepower235 hp @ 5000 rpm | Horsepower290 hp @ 6200 rpm |
MPG City21 | MPG City19 |
MPG Highway24 | MPG Highway26 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.0L 235 hp I4 | Engine Name3.5L 290 hp V6 |
Torque258 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm | Torque267 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm |
Horsepower235 hp @ 5000 rpm | Horsepower290 hp @ 6200 rpm |
DrivetrainFWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City21 | MPG City19 |
MPG Highway24 | MPG Highway26 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity7 |
Key Features | |
Sunroof/Moonroof | Sunroof/MoonroofStandard |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall4 | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space40.3 cu ft | Cargo Space16.3 cu ft |
Curb Weight4098 lbs | Curb Weight4271 lbs |
Height68.3 in | Height67.1 in |
Length195.5 in | Length198.4 in |
Width78.4 in | Width78.7 in |
Wheelbase117.3 in | Wheelbase113.8 in |
Maximum Payload1080 lbs | Maximum Payload1173 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | Maximum Towing Capacity3500 lbs |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $30,855 | $48,000 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 5.8 out of 10Read full review | 8.0 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
|
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 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.0L 235 hp I4 | 3.5L 290 hp V6 |
Torque | 258 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm | 267 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm |
Horsepower | 235 hp @ 5000 rpm | 290 hp @ 6200 rpm |
Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 21 | 19 |
MPG Highway | 24 | 26 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 5 | 7 |
Key Features | ||
Sunroof/Moonroof | Standard | |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | 4 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 40.3 cu ft | 16.3 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 4098 lbs | 4271 lbs |
Height | 68.3 in | 67.1 in |
Length | 195.5 in | 198.4 in |
Width | 78.4 in | 78.7 in |
Wheelbase | 117.3 in | 113.8 in |
Maximum Payload | 1080 lbs | 1173 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 3500 lbs | |









CarGurus highlights

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.
Choose the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport if:
- You prefer a unique design with a sporty crossover coupe look.
- You prioritize ample cargo space for your storage needs.
- You are interested in a lower starting price with various trim options.
Choose the 2022 Acura MDX if:
- You seek a modern and luxurious SUV with premium craftsmanship.
- You value advanced technology features such as premium sound systems and driver-assist technologies.
- You are looking for a higher overall rating and a well-rounded vehicle in terms of performance, safety, and cost effectiveness.
CarGurus highlights

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.
Choose the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport if:
Shop Now- You prefer a unique design with a sporty crossover coupe look.
- You prioritize ample cargo space for your storage needs.
- You are interested in a lower starting price with various trim options.
Choose the 2022 Acura MDX if:
Shop Now- You seek a modern and luxurious SUV with premium craftsmanship.
- You value advanced technology features such as premium sound systems and driver-assist technologies.
- You are looking for a higher overall rating and a well-rounded vehicle in terms of performance, safety, and cost effectiveness.

By: CarGurus + AI
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