2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs Mazda CX 9: A Comprehensive Comparison

Are you looking for the perfect SUV for your family? Then you may be considering the Volkswagen Atlas vs Mazda CX 9.

Both of these vehicles offer a range of features and performance capabilities that make them great choices.

In this blog post, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Volkswagen Atlas and Mazda CX 9, comparing their features and performance to help you decide which SUV is the right fit for your family.

What is The Main Difference Between Volkswagen Atlas and Mazda CX 9?

Volkswagen Atlas vs Mazda CX 9
Difference Between Volkswagen Atlas and Mazda CX 9

When comparing the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs Mazda CX 9, there are a few key differences. Both SUVs offer plenty of passenger space, great features, and advanced safety systems, but what sets them apart

The VW Atlas is slightly larger than the Mazda CX 9, providing more space for passengers and cargo. The Atlas has three rows of seating and can comfortably seat up to seven passengers, while the CX 9 seats up to five passengers.

When it comes to power and performance, the VW Atlas comes with a standard 235-horsepower four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The CX 9, on the other hand, is powered by a 227-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The VW Atlas offers superior fuel economy compared to the Mazda CX 9.

It gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city/26 mpg highway rating, while the CX 9 is rated at 20 mpg city/26 mpg highway. In real-world testing, the VW Atlas was able to achieve 27 mpg, while the Mazda CX 9 only managed 24 mpg.

Ultimately, those looking for a roomy family SUV with good fuel economy should look no further than the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. With its larger size and superior performance, it’s sure to please any driver looking for an SUV that does it all.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

When it comes to making the decision between the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs Mazda CX 9, pricing can be a big factor.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas is available in four different trim levels: S, SE, SEL, and SEL Premium, starting at $34,335 for the base model.

The 2022 Mazda CX 9 also comes in four trim levels: Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature, with a starting price of $35,630. When it comes to comparing the two SUVs’ features, there are several areas to consider.

For example, the Volkswagen Atlas includes standard features like remote start and tri-zone climate control while the Mazda CX 9 offers standard features such as adaptive cruise control and a power liftgate. Depending on which features you prioritize, the pricing may sway your decision.

The Volkswagen Atlas also offers two additional packages—the R-Line package for $1,695 and the Black and Brown package for $795. Both packages include additional exterior styling options to make the Atlas look more distinctive.

In addition to standard features, both vehicles offer a range of safety and driver-assistance technology as standard across all trims.

When it comes down to cost, the Volkswagen Atlas has a slight edge over the Mazda CX 9. If you are looking for an SUV with a lot of features at a good price, then the Volkswagen Atlas could be a great option.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2022 Mazda CX 9 are both equipped with powerful engines that give drivers excellent performance and power.

The Volkswagen Atlas offers a choice of two engines: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 235 horsepower, or a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 276 horsepower.

The Mazda CX 9 also offers two engines: a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, or a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque.

Both vehicles come with an eight-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth shifting and excellent fuel efficiency.

The Volkswagen Atlas is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, while the Mazda CX 9 only comes with all-wheel drive as standard.

When it comes to performance, the Mazda CX 9 has an advantage over the Volkswagen Atlas, as its engine offers more power and torque. The Volkswagen Atlas is still a great performer, however, with plenty of power for everyday driving tasks.

The Mazda CX 9 is more expensive than the Volkswagen Atlas, starting at a price of $35,630 for the base model compared to the Volkswagen Atlas’ starting price of $34,335.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas and the Mazda CX 9 are both equipped with engines that deliver impressive fuel economy and real-world MPG.

The standard 4-cylinder engine of the Volkswagen Atlas can achieve up to 23 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway, while the larger V6 engine can get up to 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway.

The Mazda CX 9, on the other hand, offers an impressive fuel economy of up to 25 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway when equipped with its standard 4-cylinder engine.

Overall, both the Volkswagen Atlas and Mazda CX 9 provide excellent fuel economy and real-world MPG ratings.

Whether you choose the VW Atlas or Mazda CX 9, you can be sure you are getting great value for your money and an efficient SUV.

Interior, and Comfort

The Volkswagen Atlas and Mazda CX-9 both offer comfortable cabins with plenty of features to make any journey enjoyable.

The VW Atlas offers an interior that is spacious and accommodating, making it a great choice for families or those who want to travel in comfort.

With three rows of seating, the Atlas can seat up to seven people with plenty of legroom. The Mazda CX-9 is slightly smaller, with two rows of seating and enough space for five passengers.

The CX-9 also offers more cargo space than the Atlas, making it a better choice for those who need to transport larger items.

The Atlas is equipped with many standard features, including heated front seats and an 8-inch touchscreen display. Optional features such as a panoramic sunroof and a 10-speaker Fender audio system are also available.

The Mazda CX-9 also offers some nice features, such as a heated steering wheel, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and tri-zone climate control.

For those looking for a luxurious interior, the VW Atlas might be the better option as it offers more features than the Mazda CX-9 for similar pricing.

Infotainment

When it comes to infotainment, the Volkswagen Atlas and Mazda CX-9 both offer robust packages. The 2022 VW Atlas comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen display as well as Apple CarPlay/Android Auto capability.

It also includes wireless charging, HD radio, and satellite radio. The higher trims of the VW Atlas come with a larger 10-inch touchscreen and have the option for a built-in navigation system. The Mazda CX-9 has an 8.8-inch display that comes standard and offers similar features.

However, the optional 12.3-inch display offers even more features like a premium Bose audio system and a 360-degree camera system. Additionally, the Mazda CX-9 also has the option of adding an in-dash navigation system.

When it comes to the 2022 VW Atlas vs Mazda CX-9, it is clear that both vehicles offer high-tech infotainment systems, but the Mazda CX-9 provides more features and options for those looking for something extra.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

When it comes to safety, both the Volkswagen Atlas and the Mazda CX 9 offer excellent driver-assistance features.

The VW Atlas includes standard forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking.

The 2022 Mazda CX 9 comes with similar features as standard equipment such as blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Both vehicles also come with a comprehensive suite of airbags.

In terms of crash tests, the Volkswagen Atlas performed well in government and independent crash tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2022 VW Atlas a “Good” rating for crashworthiness.

On the other hand, the Mazda CX 9 was rated “Acceptable” in the IIHS crashworthiness test. Overall, both vehicles offer solid safety and driver-assistance features that provide peace of mind on the road.

Final Verdict

When it comes to picking the right SUV for your family, both the Volkswagen Atlas and Mazda CX 9 are great options.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offers more interior space and technology, while the 2022 Mazda CX 9 provides a sportier driving experience. The VW Atlas also has a lower starting price than the Mazda CX 9.

When it comes to engine performance, the Mazda CX 9 has more power, but the VW Atlas offers a smoother and more comfortable ride.

Both vehicles offer excellent fuel economy and driver-assistance features. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference when it comes to size, price, comfort, performance, and safety.

If you are looking for an SUV with a larger interior, modern tech, and good value for your money, then the VW Atlas is the right choice. However, if you prefer a sportier ride and greater power, then the Mazda CX 9 is the better option.

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