2022 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a conservative yet appealing design, standing out among its competitors with a creased and symmetrical aesthetic that aged gracefully. The refreshed front styling aligned it with Volkswagen's larger models, featuring a restyled grille with the new VW logo and standard LED headlights. The Tiguan's lineup was simplified into four trims, offering both FWD and AWD options, with prices ranging from $25,995 to $36,995. The SEL R-Line trim, tested in Atlantic Blue Metallic, boasted a sportier look with 18-inch alloy wheels and a refined interior featuring leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and new technology. Despite its upscale appearance, the use of hard plastic in the lower cabin areas hinted at its mass-market status.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was crafted by modifying the standard Atlas model, resulting in a bold and sporty appearance. The removal of the third row and a lowered roofline contributed to its rakish look, while the SEL Premium R-Line trim featured 21-inch machined-finish wheels that emphasized its broad-shouldered stance. Despite the stylish exterior, the interior was marred by hard, glossy plastics that detracted from the perceived quality. The Atlas Cross Sport offered a spacious interior for five passengers, with generous rear legroom and ample storage space. However, the lack of lining in storage areas could lead to rattles and noise during drives.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering FWD as standard and optional 4Motion AWD. The AWD system could decouple the rear axle to save fuel when not needed. Drivers could choose from various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual, with additional settings for AWD models. Despite its nimble handling, the Tiguan's engine exhibited some turbo lag, and its fuel economy was modest, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined.

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, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and available 4Motion AWD, provided a more satisfying driving experience, especially in the two-row Cross Sport. However, the V6's fuel economy was lower, averaging 19.2 mpg during testing. The Atlas Cross Sport's suspension struggled with ride quality, feeling harsh at low speeds and too soft at higher speeds, while its highway performance was more agreeable.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan was notable for its spacious interior, comparable to smaller midsize SUVs. It offered a standard third-row seat in FWD models, while AWD versions provided ample cargo space. The SEL R-Line trim featured comfortable leather seats with power adjustments, excellent visibility, and a panoramic sunroof. The second row was roomy and comfortable for adults, with rear air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. However, the switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard proved challenging to use. Cargo space was generous, with up to 73.4 cubic feet available in AWD models.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport shared its wheelbase and interior dimensions with the larger Atlas, offering exceptional roominess for five passengers. The test vehicle featured power-adjustable front seats, heated rear seats, and a dual-zone climate control system. A panoramic sunroof enhanced the sense of space, while rear sunshades provided comfort for passengers. The Atlas Cross Sport's cargo area was spacious, with deep wells for additional storage, though the lack of lining in storage areas could lead to noise. Despite its shorter length and lower roofline, the Cross Sport accommodated full-size suitcases with ease.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came equipped with standard digital instrumentation, with the SEL R-Line featuring a more advanced Digital Cockpit Pro system. The MIB3 infotainment system, available in most trims, offered an 8-inch touchscreen, Car-Net connected services, and smartphone mirroring. However, the natural voice recognition feature required a subscription upgrade, leading to some frustration during testing. The Tiguan also offered a Park Assist system for autonomous parking in the SEL R-Line trim.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport featured Volkswagen Digital Cockpit with an 8-inch display in the base SE trim, while higher trims received a 10.25-inch version. The upgraded infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone connectivity, and access to Car-Net connected services. Despite the comprehensive technology offerings, the user experience could be frustrating, particularly with voice recognition. The SEL Premium R-Line trim boasted a 12-speaker Fender premium sound system, delivering impressive audio quality.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan included standard safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The IQ Drive system added Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, enhancing adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. However, the touch-sensing controls could be challenging to use. The 2021 Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, and the 2022 model's improvements aimed to maintain or improve this rating.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered a range of safety features, with higher trims adding adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and lane-keeping assist. The IQ Drive system included Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, providing advanced driver assistance. The Atlas Cross Sport's safety technology was generally effective, though some features, like Lane Assist, could be overly sensitive. The model received favorable crash-test ratings, though not the highest accolades from safety organizations.