2023 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried over with minor modifications from the previous year, simplifying its lineup to six trim levels: SE, SE with Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line, SEL R-Line Black, and SEL Premium R-Line. The Atlas featured more standard equipment across most models, with pricing ranging from $34,355 to $51,505, plus a $1,195 destination charge. The SEL Premium R-Line trim, with its 21-inch wheels and R-Line design elements, gave the SUV an upscale look. However, the interior, while displaying a premium flair, was marred by low-cost materials and hard, shiny plastics, which detracted from the overall quality.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid, specifically the RX 350h and RX 500h F Sport Performance models, showcased a redesigned exterior and interior. The RX 350h Luxury test vehicle, with its Iridium (silver) paint and 21-inch wheels, looked identical to the standard RX 350, lacking any hybrid-specific badges. The RX 500h F Sport Performance stood out with its Copper paint, blacked-out grille, and aggressive styling. Inside, the RX adopted a cleaner, more minimalistic appearance with contemporary textures and backlit ambient lighting. The RX 350h Luxury featured Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance had artificial suede and dark gray aluminum trim.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a 3.6-liter V6. The turbocharged engine produced 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, requiring premium fuel for maximum output. It had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds and an EPA fuel economy rating of 22-23 mpg combined. The V6 engine, standard on higher trims, delivered 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and a fuel economy rating of 19-20 mpg combined. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an Active Control system for different terrains, but its performance was hampered by a lack of power, efficiency, and refinement.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new powertrain lineup. The RX 350h, with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, produced 246 horsepower and 233 lb-ft of torque, achieving an estimated 36 mpg combined. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, with a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine and Direct4 AWD system, delivered 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, with an estimated 27 mpg combined. The RX 500h featured an adaptive damping suspension, Dynamic Rear Steering, and Active Sound Control, making it more fun to drive. However, accessing driving modes required navigating the infotainment system, and real-world fuel economy fell short of estimates.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space and comfort. With the discontinuation of the base S trim, V-Tex leatherette seating became standard, along with heated front seats and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. Higher trims added features like tri-zone automatic climate control, ambient cabin lighting, and a panoramic sunroof. The Atlas offered exceptional cargo space, 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 folded. However, unlined storage areas caused unwanted noise from items sliding around.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid provided a comfortable and luxurious interior. The RX 350h Luxury trim featured ten-way power-adjustable front seats, premium leather, and three-zone automatic climate control. The RX 500h F Sport Performance had eight-way power-adjustable front seats with larger side bolsters and standard-grade leather. The hybrids’ battery packs were located under the rear seat, slightly raising the seat cushion and reducing rear headroom. The RX offered 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat and 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seat folded, a significant improvement over the previous model but still less than some rivals.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came standard with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, featuring an 8-inch display that expanded to 10.25 inches on higher trims. The SE trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen with last-generation infotainment, while other trims featured the MIB3 system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Car-Net connected services. However, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times, a cumbersome tuning process, and unreliable voice recognition.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, the Lexus Interface, which required activation of connected services plans for full functionality. The system included a cloud-based navigation system, Intelligent Assistant, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the Intelligent Assistant generally worked well, the system had some drawbacks, such as limited simultaneous screen views, reflections on the touchscreen, and a lack of a tuning knob. The available head-up display with dual-function touch-sensing control pads on the steering wheel was also problematic for drivers wearing polarized sunglasses.

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, front and rear parking sensors, and the full suite of IQ Drive safety features, including Lane Assist, Travel Assist, and Emergency Assist. However, the Lane Assist system had issues with old construction markings and exit ramps, and the Atlas did not earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included new features like motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. The RX also had Proactive Driving Assist, which maintained a safe following distance and recharged the battery through regenerative braking. While most safety features operated smoothly, the front cross-traffic alert system and curve-speed reduction tech had some issues. The RX also offered Traffic Jam Assist and Advanced Park, though the latter was not tested.