2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2023 Mazda CX-50

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried over with minor modifications from the previous year, simplifying its lineup to six trim levels. The SEL Premium R-Line trim, which we tested, featured extra-cost Aurora Red paint and second-row captain’s chairs, bringing the price to $53,790. The Atlas’s design was big and boxy, with 21-inch wheels that filled out its exaggerated fenders, giving it an upscale look. However, the interior, while displaying simplicity with a premium flair, was marred by low-cost materials and an abundance of hard, shiny plastic, which detracted from the overall quality.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-50 showcased a blend of subtle seductiveness and newfound ruggedness. Its design included a blunt nose, long hood, and rakish windshield, complemented by blistered and boxed fender swells and oversized air intake and vent designs. The CX-50’s standard black grille, mirror caps, and available 20-inch wheels added to its appeal. The interior featured black leather with caramel-colored accent stitching, quality materials, and polished metallic trim. However, the lone off-center vent in the middle of the dash appeared conspicuous and out of place.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a 3.6-liter V6 engine. The turbocharged engine produced 235 hp 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 in combined driving. The V6 engine, producing 276 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, could tow up to 5,000 pounds but had a lower fuel economy of 19-20 mpg. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an Active Control system for different conditions, but its performance was hindered by a lack of power, efficiency, and refinement.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged version of the same engine producing up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. The base engine had an estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg in combined driving, while the turbocharged engine averaged 23.4 mpg. The CX-50 featured Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes, with G-Vectoring Control technology ensuring natural vehicle behavior. The CX-50’s driving character was likened to a modern Mazda6 station wagon with a Subaru Outback treatment, offering a firm ride quality and up to 8.6 inches of ground clearance.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space and comfort. It offered V-Tex leatherette seating, heated front seats, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat as standard. Higher trims added features like tri-zone automatic climate control, ambient cabin lighting, and a panoramic sunroof. The Atlas could comfortably seat seven people, with a low step-in height and rear side-window sunshades. Cargo space was exceptional, 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.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 provided power-adjustable heated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated side mirrors. The ventilated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control were effective in maintaining cabin comfort. The driver’s seat and front passenger’s seat were comfortable for long drives, though they could use more side bolstering. The back seat was roomy, with rear air vents and charging ports. Cargo space measured 31.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 56.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, slightly less than the CX-5 due to the CX-50’s lower roofline.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came standard with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, featuring an 8-inch display that expanded to 10.25 inches in higher trims. The SE trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen with last-generation infotainment, while other trims featured the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The MyVW smartphone app provided access to Car-Net services, and the SEL Premium R-Line trim included a 12-speaker Fender premium sound system. However, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and a cumbersome interface.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and Mazda Connected Services. The base 2.5 S had an 8.8-inch display, while higher trims included a 10.25-inch display. Mazda Connect historically lacked touchscreen control, but the CX-50 allowed touchscreen functionality for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint surround-sound system provided a satisfying audio experience. The Active Driving Display (HUD) offered useful data within the driver’s line of sight, including blind-spot warnings.

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 collection of IQ Drive safety features, including Lane Assist, Travel Assist, and Emergency Assist. The Atlas SEL Premium R-Line also had a surround-view camera system and Park Assist technology. However, the Lane Assist technology 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 Mazda CX-50 was expected to excel in safety, similar to other Mazda models. It offered a generous standard package of driving assistance systems, with the CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus trim adding Traffic Jam Assist, active blind-spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The adaptive cruise control had issues recognizing slower vehicles cutting into the gap ahead, but overall, the driving assistance systems worked well.