2022 Lexus NX vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned and available in four model series, offered a range of trim levels from base to Luxury, with prices starting at $37,950. The NX 350, particularly in F Sport and Luxury trims, stood out with its distinctive Lexus design, featuring a prominent spindle grille and refined styling details. The new model was larger, providing more passenger and cargo space, and introduced a minimalist interior design with a focus on decluttering. However, the integration of many functions into the touchscreen made it challenging for drivers to quickly access certain features. Despite some minor drawbacks, the NX maintained high-quality levels, though some elements, like the turn signal, felt less premium.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas, following significant updates in 2021, carried over with minor changes and a simplified lineup. Prices ranged from $34,355 to $51,505, with the SEL Premium R-Line trim offering a more upscale appearance with 21-inch wheels. The Atlas's interior design was simple yet premium, though some materials felt low-cost, with hard plastics detracting from the overall quality. Despite these issues, the Atlas provided a spacious and comfortable interior, accommodating seven passengers with ease. The SUV's practicality was enhanced by numerous storage areas, though unlined compartments led to unwanted noise. Cargo space was exceptional, with up to 96.8 cubic feet available when the seats were folded down.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions, with the NX 350h delivering 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ providing 302 horsepower. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The NX 350 F Sport added driving modes and an adaptive variable sports suspension, enhancing its sporty character. The SUV's handling was impressive, though the engine lacked the refinement of some German rivals. The NX was not suited for off-road adventures, with limited ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a standard turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, requiring premium fuel for maximum output. The available 3.6-liter V6 engine produced 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The Atlas's driving dynamics were competent, though the V6 lacked refinement and power. The SUV featured various driving modes and an AWD system with Active Control calibrations. Despite its size, the Atlas was easy to maneuver, though its ride quality was affected by large wheels and low-profile tires. The Atlas's handling was sound, but an adaptive-damping suspension option would have improved ride control.

The 2022 Lexus NX provided a comfortable interior with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The F Sport trim offered sport-bolstered seats, while the Luxury trim included ambient lighting. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample space, and the panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat. Cargo space increased to 22.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 46.9 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space, comfortably seating seven adults. The SUV featured V-Tex leatherette seating, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. Higher trims added genuine leather, ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The Atlas offered exceptional cargo space, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 96.8 cubic feet with all seats folded. The SUV's low step-in height made entry and exit easy, and numerous storage areas added practicality, though unlined compartments caused noise.

The 2022 Lexus NX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system, featuring large touchscreen displays, voice recognition, and cloud-based features. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen available. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 10-speaker sound system, and optional Mark Levinson audio. The Voice Assistant and Intelligent Assistant systems enhanced functionality, though the touchscreen collected fingerprints and lacked a tuning knob.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came with the Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, with an 8-inch display standard and a 10.25-inch screen on higher trims. The SE trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while other trims featured the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch screen, wireless connectivity, and Car-Net services. The SEL Premium R-Line included a 12-speaker Fender sound system. The infotainment system's user experience was hindered by slow loading times and a complex tuning process, and voice recognition required a subscription for optimal performance.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driver assistance systems like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist and Oncoming Vehicle Detection. The SUV also offered blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist. Premium trims added rear pedestrian detection and adaptive front lighting. The Emergency Driving Stop System provided additional safety by stopping the vehicle if the driver was unresponsive.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and Emergency Assist. The Atlas's safety systems were generally effective, though Lane Assist occasionally misinterpreted road markings. The SUV's crash-test ratings were decent but not class-leading, lacking a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.