2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried over from the previous year with only minor modifications, as Volkswagen had already made significant updates to the 2021 model. The lineup was simplified to include SE, SE with Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line, SEL R-Line Black, and SEL Premium R-Line trims. Most models came with more standard features than before. Pricing ranged from $34,355 to $51,505, plus a $1,195 destination charge. The SEL Premium R-Line trim, with additional features like Aurora Red paint and second-row captain’s chairs, brought the price to $53,790. The SEL Premium included R-Line design elements, such as 21-inch wheels, enhancing the SUV's upscale appearance. However, the interior, while designed with simplicity and premium flair, was criticized for its low-cost materials, including hard, shiny plastics that detracted from the overall quality.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna, a minivan that embraced its identity, continued to serve families despite the SUV trend. Toyota's commitment to the minivan segment was evident in the Sienna's evolution, with the fourth generation launching in 2021. The Sienna aimed to blend SUV styling with minivan functionality, featuring a macho front end and re-engineered sliding doors. The interior was designed to avoid the typical minivan feel, offering clever storage solutions and comfortable seating for all passengers. The third-row bench could easily be stored away, and the second-row seats provided flexibility for accessing the third row. The Sienna's design and functionality made it a practical choice for families.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options. The standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produced 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, requiring premium fuel for optimal performance. It was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and available in FWD or AWD. The turbo-four had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds and an EPA fuel economy rating of 22-23 mpg combined. The 3.6-liter V6 engine, standard on higher trims, delivered 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. It could tow up to 5,000 pounds but had a lower fuel economy of 19-20 mpg combined. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an AWD system with Active Control calibrations. However, the V6 engine was criticized for its lack of refinement and power. The Atlas was spacious, but its ride quality and handling were not as refined as some competitors.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came exclusively with a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. FWD was standard, with AWD available on all trims. The AWD system used a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, simplifying the design. The Sienna's electronically controlled CVT provided smooth power delivery and enhanced fuel efficiency. The TNGA platform contributed to better-than-expected handling for a minivan, with minimal body roll and comfortable highway cruising. The Sienna's hybrid system delivered impressive EPA fuel economy ratings of 36 mpg combined for FWD models and 35 mpg combined for AWD models. The battery pack was strategically placed under the front seats, and Toyota offered a 10-year/150,000-mile warranty for it.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a spacious and comfortable interior, seating seven people with ease. The step-in height was low, making entry and exit convenient. The Atlas provided numerous storage areas, though many were unlined, leading to potential noise from items sliding around. Cargo space was generous, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 55.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 96.8 cubic feet with the second row down. The power tailgate added convenience for loading and unloading.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in cargo capacity and versatility. It could accommodate a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. The sliding second row allowed for flexible loading options, with cargo measurements of 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 101 cubic feet behind the first row. The Sienna's 60/40-split third-row bench easily stored away, and each row offered ample storage cubbies and cupholders. Power-operated sliding doors and tailgate, with foot-motion triggers, added convenience for families.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas featured the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit as standard, with an 8-inch display on lower trims and a 10.25-inch display on higher trims. The SE trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen with basic infotainment features, while other trims offered the MIB3 system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and more. Car-Net connected services were available in three plans, offering features like remote start and emergency assistance. However, the infotainment system was criticized for its slow loading times and complex user interface. The SEL Premium R-Line trim included a 12-speaker Fender premium sound system.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came with a 9-inch touchscreen standard across all trims, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The Sienna offered a range of telematics services, including Safety Connect and Remote Connect, with various trial periods. Bluetooth and audio streaming were standard, and higher trims offered a 12-speaker JBL audio system. A rear-seat entertainment system was available, featuring an 11.6-inch display. The Sienna also offered a head-up display on Platinum trims, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and more. However, the Atlas did not earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and received four-star ratings in frontal-impact tests from the NHTSA. Some driver assistance features were criticized for being overly sensitive or difficult to disable.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was expected to receive a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, as the 2021 model did. It earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The Sienna came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and more. It also featured 10 airbags and multiple LATCH connectors for child seats. A rear-seat reminder system and tire-pressure monitoring were standard, with an optional spare tire.