2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport retained much of the design from the regular Atlas but featured a lower roofline and an aggressively-raked rear hatch. This design choice gave it a crossover coupe-like appearance, blending SUV ruggedness with car-like features. However, the styling was somewhat unconventional, with elements like fake exhaust tips on the rear bumper of the SEL Premium model appearing tacky. The Cross Sport was shorter and lower than the seven-seat Atlas, sharing the same wheelbase and platform. It came with standard LED lighting and various wheel sizes depending on the trim. The interior followed VW's minimalist design, which was visually appealing but marred by subpar materials, making the cabin feel less premium than expected.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC90 showcased a sophisticated and upscale design, moving away from Volvo's boxy past. The XC90's sleek roofline and pronounced wheel arches emphasized its athletic stance, while the "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights added a touch of Swedish heritage. Inside, the XC90 exuded luxury with its Scandinavian Modern design, featuring natural wood and metal trim. The interior was available with Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend, with the latter being a nod to Volvo's commitment to going leather-free by 2030. The XC90's interior was a testament to Volvo's attention to detail, offering a luxurious and comfortable environment.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two powertrain options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-liter VR6 engine delivering 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 handling was more truck-like than sporty. The VR6 model had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, while the four-cylinder model could tow 2,000 pounds.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 250 horsepower, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 horsepower, and the T8 plug-in hybrid with a combined 455 horsepower. The T5 was available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, while the T6 and T8 were all-wheel drive only. The XC90's driving experience was impressive, with minimal body roll and smooth power delivery, especially in the T8 model. The T8's electric motor eliminated turbo lag, providing spirited acceleration. The XC90's fuel efficiency varied by model, with the T8 offering an EV range of up to 36 miles.

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, the 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 interior featured various storage options, including a large center console and a second-row armrest with cupholders.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was available in six-passenger and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row. The third row was suitable for children but lacked legroom for adults. The XC90 offered 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with it folded, and 85.7 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The XC90's interior was spacious and airy, enhanced by a panoramic moonroof. It provided ample storage options and comfortable seating, making it ideal for family trips.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport featured two infotainment systems: the MIB2 with a 6.5-inch touchscreen on the base trim and the MIB3 with an 8-inch touchscreen on higher trims. Both systems included USB-C ports and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity. The MIB3 added multiple-device pairing and updated voice recognition. Higher trims offered a digital cockpit display and a Fender premium audio system. However, the MIB3 system was slow to load, and the voice recognition required specific prompts.

The 2022 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system offered tablet-like functionality with a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the system was occasionally slow to respond. The XC90 featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display. The standard Harman Kardon sound system could be upgraded to a Bowers & Wilkins system for superior audio quality. The XC90 included multiple USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and the Volvo Care app for remote vehicle control.

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. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, 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 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Volvo's Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving assistance on highways. The XC90 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, highlighting its commitment to safety.