2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2023 BMW X7

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried over with minor modifications from its previous model year, following significant updates in 2021. Volkswagen streamlined the lineup, offering configurations such as SE, SE with Technology, SEL, and several R-Line trims, including the new SEL R-Line Black. Most models came with more standard features than before. Pricing ranged from $34,355 to $51,505, plus a $1,195 destination charge. The SEL Premium R-Line trim, with additional features like Aurora Red paint and second-row captain’s chairs, brought the price to $53,790. The Atlas's design was big and boxy, with 21-inch wheels enhancing its upscale look, though some wheel choices didn't match its bold styling. Inside, the Atlas displayed simplicity with a premium flair, but the use of low-cost materials and hard plastics was disappointing for an SUV nearing $54,000.

In contrast, the 2023 BMW X7 underwent a mid-cycle makeover, adopting a bolder design akin to the BMW 7 Series sedan. The front end featured LED accent lights and a controversial oversized kidney grille. While the new styling was polarizing, the sides and rear remained largely unchanged. The interior received a refresh, with a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The center console featured a new toggle switch-like gear selector. Interior materials were of high quality, with supple leather and a new Sensafin synthetic substitute. The X7's interior was sturdily built, with no creaking on bumpy roads, and the revisions gave it a modern and elegant appearance.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine for the SE, SE with Technology, and SEL trims, producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It required premium fuel for optimal performance and had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. The EPA rated its fuel economy at 22 to 23 mpg combined. The 3.6-liter V6 engine, standard on higher trims, delivered 276 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. However, its acceleration was leisurely, and the drivetrain lacked refinement. Fuel economy estimates were 19 to 20 mpg combined. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an AWD system with Active Control calibrations. Despite its size, the Atlas was easy to maneuver, but its ride quality was busy, and road noise was noticeable.

The 2023 BMW X7 lineup started with the xDrive40i model, featuring a new 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 375 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. The X7 M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The X7's acceleration was potent, and it handled well despite its weight, with minimal body roll. The ride was slightly firmer than some luxury SUVs, but it maintained a good balance of performance and comfort.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a spacious interior with comfortable seating for seven, even in the third row. The step-in height was low, making it easy to access. The Atlas provided numerous storage areas, though many were unlined, causing items to rattle. Cargo space was exceptional, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96.8 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Atlas was one of the most accommodating vehicles in its class.

The 2023 BMW X7 also provided ample space, with the second row accommodating taller passengers. Accessing the third row took time due to the power-operated middle row, but it offered adequate head- and legroom for average-sized adults. Cargo space was 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 90.4 cubic feet with all seats folded. The X7 featured a split tailgate and a button to lower the suspension for easier loading. Front-seat passengers had adequate storage space for personal items.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came standard with the Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, featuring an 8-inch display that expanded to 10.25 inches on higher trims. The SE trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen with basic infotainment features, while other trims offered the MIB3 system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless connectivity, and Car-Net services. The user experience was hindered by slow loading times and a cumbersome interface. Voice recognition required a subscription for natural commands, and the navigation system was hit-or-miss.

The 2023 BMW X7 featured the latest iDrive infotainment system, which was less intuitive than previous versions. Many functions were moved to the infotainment screen, making simple tasks more complicated. Voice commands were available but interrupted audio playback. The system was better suited for navigation and texting, but more physical buttons and intuitive menus were needed for frequently used features.

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, parking sensors, and the full IQ Drive suite with lane-keeping assistance and emergency assist. However, the Lane Assist system had issues with old construction markings, and crash-test ratings were decent but not class-leading.

The 2023 BMW X7's safety features included frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, adaptive headlights, and parking sensors. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera system, adaptive cruise control, and a highway driving assist feature. The safety systems performed well, with no false alarms or unpredictable responses. Crash test results were unavailable, but BMW's reputation and safety features provided confidence in passenger protection.