2022 Volvo XC90 vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while stepping into the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, leading to the current XC90, which launched in 2016 as the flagship SUV on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform. The XC90's design was sleek and athletic, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches, while the interior boasted a "Scandinavian Modern" aesthetic with natural wood and metal trim. Volvo's commitment to sustainability was evident in its leather-free initiative, offering a tailored wool blend upholstery option alongside traditional Nappa leather.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was a sportier, more compact version of the standard Atlas, achieved by removing the third row and lowering the roofline. This design change resulted in a bold and upscale appearance, particularly in the SEL Premium R-Line trim with 21-inch wheels. The interior was spacious, accommodating five adults comfortably, with features like 10-way power-adjustable front seats and a panoramic sunroof enhancing the sense of space. However, the use of hard, glossy plastics detracted from the overall quality feel, and the storage areas lacked the typical Volkswagen lining, leading to potential rattles and noises during drives.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 250 horsepower, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp, and the T8 plug-in hybrid combining gasoline and electric power for a total of 455 hp. The T5 models were available in front-wheel drive (FWD) with optional all-wheel drive (AWD), while the T6 and T8 were AWD only. The XC90's driving experience was impressive, with minimal body roll and smooth power delivery, especially in the T8 Inscription extended range model, which provided spirited acceleration and an electric motor that eliminated turbo lag.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came with two engine options: a standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and an available 3.6-liter V6 producing 276 hp. The V6 offered a more satisfying performance, especially in the SEL Premium R-Line trim with standard 4Motion AWD. However, the V6's aging design and occasional lack of refinement were noticeable, and the fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 19.2 mpg during testing. The suspension tuning was a mixed bag, with a harsh ride at lower speeds and a too-soft feel at higher speeds, making the driving experience less refined than expected.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was available in six- or seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold of the second row. While the third row was suitable for children, adults would find it lacking in legroom. The XC90 offered 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 85.7 cubic feet with all seats folded. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and a standard panoramic moonroof enhancing the airy feel. The air-conditioning system performed well even in extreme heat, making the XC90 a comfortable choice for all seasons.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport shared its wheelbase and track width with the larger Atlas, providing a roomy interior for five adults. The test vehicle featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats, heated rear seats, and a dual-zone climate control system. Storage was plentiful, though the lack of lining in storage areas could lead to rattling. The cargo area was generous, with deep wells for additional storage, though the shorter length and lower roofline reduced overall cargo capacity compared to the seven-passenger model.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering tablet-like functionality with familiar gestures. However, the system was occasionally glitchy and slow, performing better with Apple CarPlay. The XC90 also included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. The standard Harman Kardon sound system could be upgraded to a Bowers & Wilkins system for audiophiles. USB ports and a WiFi hotspot were standard, with the Volvo Care app providing remote vehicle controls.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE came with an 8-inch digital cockpit and a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims featured a 10.25-inch digital cockpit and an 8-inch touchscreen with additional features like wireless smartphone charging and SiriusXM. The Car-Net connected services offered various subscription plans for remote start, emergency assistance, and more. The 12-speaker Fender sound system in the SEL Premium R-Line was a standout feature, though the overall user experience with the infotainment system could be frustrating.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety with features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist, which combined several safety functions for highway driving. The XC90 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, reinforcing its reputation as a safe choice for families.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered a range of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and IQ Drive, which included Travel Assist and Emergency Assist. While the Atlas Cross Sport's safety features were generally effective, some systems, like Lane Assist, occasionally misinterpreted road markings. The Atlas Cross Sport received favorable crash-test ratings, though not the highest accolades from safety organizations.