2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover underwent a subtle evolution rather than a radical redesign. Its front and side profiles closely resembled the previous generation, with a broad, rounded face and large, unadorned sheet metal. A vertical accent strip under the mirrors distinguished the new model from its predecessor. The rear view saw the most significant change, with thin LED strips replacing the old square taillights, integrated into a darker trim element. 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 and a larger tablet-like touchscreen, offering a modern look. Premium leather and rich wood trim elements adorned the interior, exuding luxury. The Range Rover's solid feel and quiet cabin, even on rough roads, set it apart from competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLS, BMW X7, and Cadillac Escalade.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried over with minor modifications after significant updates in 2021. The lineup was simplified to SE, SE with Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line, SEL R-Line Black, and SEL Premium R-Line trims. The SEL Premium R-Line featured standard R-Line design elements, including 21-inch wheels that enhanced its upscale look. The Atlas's interior design was simple yet premium, but the use of low-cost materials, such as hard, shiny plastics, detracted from its quality. The Atlas offered a spacious and comfortable interior, accommodating seven passengers with ease. However, the unlined storage areas caused unwanted noise, and the cargo space was exceptional, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96.8 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrains: the base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, and the P530 with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The P400 accelerated effortlessly, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, while the V8 provided more power for those seeking it. The Range Rover's handling was surprisingly agile for its size, with well-managed body roll and a calm, composed driving experience. Standard rear-wheel steering improved maneuverability, and the Terrain Response system optimized off-road capability. The Range Rover's ride quality was smooth, with minimal wind and road noise, making it one of the most comfortable luxury SUVs.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with front-wheel drive or 4Motion all-wheel drive. The turbo-four's towing capacity was limited to 2,000 pounds, but it achieved better fuel economy than the available 3.6-liter V6 engine. The V6, producing 276 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, was standard for higher trims and offered a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. However, its acceleration was leisurely, and the drivetrain lacked refinement. The Atlas featured Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual driving modes, with Active Control calibrations for different conditions. The 4Motion AWD system decoupled the rear wheels for better fuel economy. The Atlas's handling was sound, but the ride quality was busy, with road noise entering the cabin. The suspension felt softer than previous models, but an adaptive-damping suspension option was needed for better control.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered ample space in the first two rows, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. Front seats were cushioned for long-distance comfort, with available massage functions. Storage options included two glove boxes, a wireless charging pad, and a large center console bin. The second row provided generous space for taller passengers, with power recline and sliding adjustments. The optional third row was accessible with a button, though headroom was limited for adults. Cargo space was 17.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 93 cubic feet with the seats folded. The split tailgate facilitated loading, and buttons lowered the air suspension for easier access.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas featured V-Tex leatherette seating, heated front seats, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat. Higher trims added tri-zone climate control, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof. The Atlas's interior was spacious, accommodating seven passengers comfortably, even in the third row. The step-in height was low, and rear side-window sunshades were available. Cargo space was exceptional, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. However, unlined storage areas caused unwanted noise.

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

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas included the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrument cluster as standard, with an 8-inch display expanding to 10.25 inches on higher trims. The Atlas SE had a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while other trims featured the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Car-Net connected services. The SEL Premium R-Line had a 12-speaker Fender premium sound system. However, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and a cumbersome process for tuning the radio. The Car-Net Hotspot plan and Speech Plus were needed for natural voice recognition, but the system was hit-and-miss.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover came standard with frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. These features performed well, but the Range Rover lacked some advanced safety features offered by rivals. Crash test results were not available from NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a comprehensive list of safety features, including automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and the full collection of IQ Drive safety features. The Atlas SEL had brighter LED headlights and an adaptive front lighting system. However, the Lane Assist technology had issues with old construction markings, and crash-test ratings were decent but not class-leading.