2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was crafted by removing the third row from the standard Atlas model, lowering the roofline by 2.3 inches, and shortening the SUV’s length by 5.2 inches. Despite these changes, the wheelbase remained the same, ensuring a spacious interior for five passengers. However, the design adjustments resulted in reduced cargo space, offering 40.3 cubic feet behind the second-row seat and a maximum of 77.8 cubic feet. The Atlas Cross Sport boasted a bold and sporty appearance, particularly in the SEL Premium R-Line trim with its 21-inch machined-finish wheels. While the base SE trim's 18-inch wheels appeared undersized, the SE with Technology and SEL trims offered more suitable 20-inch wheels. The vehicle was available in six paint colors, with the test model featuring a striking Pure Gray exterior paired with a Dark Burgundy over Titan Black interior. Despite its upscale look, the interior's hard, glossy plastic detracted from the overall quality impression. The Atlas Cross Sport SEL Premium R-Line had an MSRP of $52,495, slightly less than a similarly equipped standard Atlas.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar exuded class and elegance, with a design that echoed the larger Range Rover's profile in a more compact, sporty package. The Velar's long wheelbase, short overhangs, and signature Land Rover grille and lights were unmistakably Range Rover. The vehicle's design featured a sloping roof and wide shoulder crease, creating a streamlined yet blocky appearance. The R-Dynamic trim added bronze accents and a more aggressive front bumper. The interior, though less opulent than previous models, maintained high-quality materials and exemplary fit and finish. The Velar's three screens offered sharp graphics, and the base trim included a 12-speaker Meridian stereo. Despite its stylish design, the Velar's interior space was limited, with reduced headroom and visibility. Cargo space was also modest, with 16 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 49 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and an available 3.6-liter V6 producing 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. The V6 engine, which did not require premium fuel, provided a more satisfying driving experience and a 5,000-pound towing capacity. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive standard and VW’s 4Motion all-wheel drive available. The Atlas Cross Sport's ride quality varied, with the suspension feeling too firm at low speeds and too soft at higher speeds. The V6 engine was more efficient on the highway, but the ride could be harsh on imperfect roads. The vehicle's off-road capabilities were limited by its ground clearance and tire design.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar shared its chassis with the Jaguar F-Pace, offering a lower center of gravity and lighter weight for improved handling and braking. The base engine was a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four with 247 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The Velar's optional air suspension provided a plush ride and up to 10 inches of clearance. The optional 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, available in two states of tune, offered 340 to 395 horsepower and included a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This powertrain delivered high performance while reducing emissions. The Velar's off-road capabilities were limited, lacking a locking differential or low range, but it included a Terrain Response system with six driving modes.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport shared its wheelbase and interior dimensions with the larger seven-passenger model, minus the third row, resulting in a spacious interior for five adults. The test vehicle featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated seating, a heated steering wheel, and a dual-zone climate control system. A panoramic sunroof enhanced the sense of space, while ample storage options were available, though some lacked lining to prevent rattling. The cargo area offered substantial space, with deep wells for additional storage, despite the reduced cargo capacity compared to the seven-passenger model.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar offered a tighter interior compared to midsize SUVs, with limited headroom and visibility due to its design. Cargo space was modest, with 16 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 49 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Velar's interior design included a controversial parking brake control integrated with the transmission button, which was criticized for its lack of intuitive operation. The Pivi Pro infotainment system improved the user interface, and the vehicle included features like a PM2.5 air filter, heated windshield, and advanced navigation capabilities. However, the Velar's design choices sometimes prioritized style over functionality.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE came with Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, featuring an 8-inch display and a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit and an 8-inch touchscreen with additional features like wireless smartphone integration, SiriusXM, and wireless charging. The infotainment system included Car-Net connected services, offering remote start, emergency assistance, and a WiFi hotspot. Despite its comprehensive technology suite, the user experience could be frustrating, with issues related to touchscreen interaction and voice recognition. The SEL Premium R-Line trim featured a 12-speaker Fender premium sound system, praised for its quality.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar's Pivi Pro infotainment system offered a simplified layout with logical arrangements and customizable options. The system included a voice assistant, air quality monitoring, and advanced navigation features. The Velar's instrument panel could display full-width maps and reconfigure gauges, though the driving assist display lacked detail. Standard features included LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, and a 12-speaker Meridian stereo. The Velar's technology suite was praised for its functionality, though some features, like the adaptive cruise control, were not as advanced as competitors.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport included standard safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and lane-keeping assist. The IQ Drive system offered Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, enhancing safety and convenience. The Atlas Cross Sport received favorable crash-test ratings, though not the highest accolades from IIHS or NHTSA. The vehicle's safety technology was generally effective, though some features, like Lane Assist, could be overly sensitive.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar had not been crash-tested by U.S. agencies, but it scored well in European NCAP tests. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included 360-degree cameras and adaptive cruise control with steering assist. The Velar's safety technology was comprehensive, though the lack of U.S. crash-test ratings made direct comparisons difficult.