2021 Lexus NX Hybrid vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid presented a blend of sharp edges and a streamlined profile, maintaining a familiar yet distinct look within the Lexus family. Despite its sporty F Sport Black Line trim with a larger mesh grille and dark-finish 18-inch wheels, the NX's design had not evolved significantly over the years. The interior, once radical, had become familiar, with a stepped center console and a lack of traditional luxury materials, leaning more towards mainstream quality.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered a bold and sporty appearance, especially in the SEL Premium R-Line trim with 21-inch machined-finish wheels. The removal of the third row and a lowered roofline gave it a rakish look, while the interior boasted generous space for five adults. Despite its upscale appearance, the interior was marred by hard, glossy plastics, detracting from the overall quality feel.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a total of 194 horsepower. It came standard with all-wheel drive, but its performance was more focused on fuel efficiency than excitement, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds. The sport-tuned suspension improved handling, but the steering felt numb, and the drive modes offered minimal impact on performance.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and a 3.6-liter V6 producing 276 horsepower. The V6, paired with VW’s 4Motion AWD, provided a more satisfying drive, though it was less fuel-efficient. The suspension struggled with urban ride quality, feeling harsh at low speeds and too soft at higher speeds. However, highway driving was where the Atlas Cross Sport excelled, offering a comfortable ride.

The Lexus NX Hybrid had limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. The cargo space was also minimal, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Despite these limitations, the front seats offered excellent support, and features like power-adjustable seats and a moonroof were available.

The Atlas Cross Sport, sharing its wheelbase with the larger Atlas, provided exceptional interior space for five adults. It featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and ample storage space. The cargo area was generous, though the shorter length and lower roofline reduced overall capacity compared to the seven-passenger model.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, with an 8-inch display and a difficult-to-use Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While it included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system felt dated, and the base audio system was underwhelming.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered a more advanced technology suite, with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and a 12-speaker Fender premium sound system. However, the user experience could be frustrating, and the best approach was to rely on smartphone integration for a smoother experience.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver aids, though it lacked a 360-degree camera system.

The Atlas Cross Sport included a range of safety features, with more advanced options available on higher trims. It featured adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a semi-autonomous Parking Steering Assistant. While it didn’t achieve the highest safety accolades, its ratings were favorable.