2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport vs 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport featured a design that borrowed heavily from its sibling, the regular Atlas, but with a sportier twist. Its low roofline and aggressively-raked rear hatch gave it a unique crossover coupe appearance, though the styling was a mix of rugged SUV elements and car-like features. The fake exhaust tips on the SEL Premium model were considered tacky. The Cross Sport was shorter and lower than the seven-seat Atlas, sharing the same wheelbase and platform. It boasted standard LED lighting and varied wheel sizes across trims, with the R-Line adding sportier exterior touches. Inside, the minimalist design was visually appealing but marred by subpar materials, with leather upholstery feeling rubbery and an overuse of hard and shiny plastics.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid drew styling inspiration from Toyota's Tacoma pickup, with a rugged trapezoidal grille and upright fascia. Its side profile introduced a softer character line, reminiscent of the Supra and Sienna, which added unnecessary visual weight. The rear echoed the front's trapezoidal theme, resulting in a somewhat disjointed design compared to competitors like the Kia Telluride. Inside, the asymmetrical dash featured a metallic styling element that added visual interest and storage functionality. The infotainment screen was positioned for easy driver access, and the Bronze Edition's light grey fabric upholstery was a questionable choice, prone to dirt and stains. The Softex synthetic leather felt more like vinyl, and the third row was less accommodating, with hard plastics and limited comfort.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 235 horsepower and a 3.6-liter VR6 engine with 276 horsepower. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The VR6 provided a lively start but lacked midrange acceleration, and the transmission was slow to react. Ride quality was poor, with noticeable bumps and noise, and the handling was truck-like with significant body roll. The VR6 model had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, while the four-cylinder could tow 2,000 pounds. AWD versions featured multiple drive modes and 8 inches of ground clearance, but the Jeep Grand Cherokee was a better off-road choice.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT. It offered standard FWD, with optional AWD via an electric motor. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 60 mph in just over 8 seconds. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick start, but the engine's drone was uninspired under heavy acceleration. Braking was smooth, with regenerative braking seamlessly transitioning to physical brakes. The ride was comfortable, with a quiet cabin, making it one of the quieter midsize SUVs. Handling was adequate for a family vehicle, prioritizing comfort over sportiness.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered competitive interior space for a two-row midsize crossover. Front and rear legroom were among the best in class, but rear headroom was limited due to the sloping roofline. Cargo space was above average, with 40.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 77.8 cubic feet with them folded. The interior featured various storage options, including a large center console and charge ports.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid provided well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage was plentiful, with trays and bins for personal items. The second row was spacious, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs or an optional bench. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with seats folded, and 84.3 cubic feet at maximum capacity.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport featured two infotainment systems: the MIB2 with a 6.5-inch screen on the base trim and the MIB3 with an 8-inch screen on higher trims. Both systems included USB-C ports and smartphone connectivity. The MIB3 added multiple-device pairing and updated voice recognition. Higher trims featured a Digital Cockpit display and a Fender audio system, though the latter was underwhelming. The Digital Cockpit allowed for customizable gauge displays, and analog controls simplified basic functions.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option on top trims. The system was responsive, with logical menus and physical shortcut buttons. Standard features included smartphone integration, a wireless charging pad on XLE trims and above, and limited trial periods for satellite radio and Wi-Fi. Navigation and a JBL audio system were standard on higher trims.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport received top "Good" scores in IIHS crash tests, with mixed headlight ratings. It earned a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning and blind-spot monitoring, with optional adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. Unique features included an Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and Intelligent Crash Response System. New for 2021 were Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, offering lane centering and automatic stopping.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid achieved a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. A surround view camera and adaptive headlights were exclusive to the Platinum trim. The safety systems generally performed well but required some fine-tuning for smoother operation.