2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport vs 2022 Kia EV6

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. This design choice, reminiscent of luxury crossover coupes, resulted in a somewhat awkward aesthetic. The vehicle was shorter and lower than its seven-seat counterpart, maintaining the same wheelbase. It featured standard LED lighting and a range of wheel sizes across different trims, with the R-Line models adding sportier styling elements. Inside, the minimalist design was visually appealing but marred by subpar materials, with leather upholstery and contrast stitching failing to elevate the overall feel. The interior's dark color scheme and flat-bottom steering wheel added to the lack of a welcoming atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia EV6 boasted a sportier and more svelte design, akin to a Ford Mustang Mach-E. Its lower and wider stance, combined with a highback tail and lip spoiler, gave it a dynamic appearance. The wheels were pushed to the corners, creating a sense of stability and style, while the headlights and black trim added an aggressive touch. The EV6's design was further enhanced by features like recessed lights and a unique reverse light design. Inside, the EV6 offered a futuristic feel with dual 12-inch screens, a floating center console, and ambient lighting. The interior was a blend of suede and leather, with digital controls and a hockey-puck shifter adding to its modern appeal.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-liter VR6 engine with 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The VR6 engine provided a lively acceleration experience, but midrange performance was lacking. The ride quality was subpar, with noticeable bumps and potholes, and the handling was more akin to a truck than a sporty SUV. The VR6 model had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, while the four-cylinder model could tow 2,000 pounds. AWD versions featured Active Control with multiple drive modes and 8 inches of ground clearance.

The 2022 Kia EV6, particularly the GT-Line e-AWD model, delivered impressive performance with its dual electric motors producing 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds, with a top-power GT trim promising even more power. The EV6 excelled in handling, with quick torque distribution and seamless power delivery. It offered multiple regenerative braking settings, including a one-pedal driving mode. However, the EV6's range was disappointing in cold weather, achieving only 65 percent of its EPA estimate. Charging was efficient, with the ability to accept up to 240 kW, but real-world charging speeds were often lower than claimed.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport provided 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 vehicle featured a 60/40 split-fold rear seat and a foot-activated tailgate on certain trims. Storage options included cargo nets, cupholders, and a center console.

The 2022 Kia EV6 offered generous legroom and headroom, thanks to its low floor design. The rear seats reclined and had air vents, creating an open and airy space. However, cargo space was limited, with 24 cubic feet behind the seats and 50 cubic feet when folded. The EV6's towing capacity was 2,300 pounds, and it featured an onboard power generator for 120-volt equipment. The vehicle's innovative design included pop-out door handles and a unique climate and stereo control system.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came with two infotainment systems: the MIB2 system with a 6.5-inch touchscreen on the base trim and the MIB3 system with an 8-inch touchscreen on higher trims. Both systems offered USB-C ports, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, and pinch-to-zoom screens. The MIB3 system added multiple-device pairing and updated voice recognition. Higher trims featured a Volkswagen Digital Cockpit and a 12-speaker Fender audio system. The Digital Cockpit allowed for customizable displays, while analog controls provided ease of use for basic functions.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with dual 12-inch screens and a head-up display with augmented reality. It offered connectivity features, though Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a wired connection. The system included Highway Driving Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera. Higher trims featured a 14-speaker Meridian stereo and a remote parking system. However, Kia Connect features were disabled for Massachusetts residents due to compliance issues.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport received top "Good" scores in IIHS crash tests, with mixed headlight ratings. It earned a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, with standard safety features like forward-collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. 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, offering automated lane centering and emergency stopping.

The 2022 Kia EV6 lacked published test results but offered impressive safety tech. Standard features included lane-keeping, cyclist and pedestrian detection, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added front parking sensors, automatic rear braking, and evasive steering assist. The GT-Line featured "machine learning" adaptive cruise control. The EV6's safety features were comprehensive, though lacking official ratings.