2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2021 Cadillac Escalade

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade showcased a design heavily influenced by the Escala concept, particularly evident in its front fascia. However, from the side and rear, it retained a familiar look, featuring crisp creases and tall OLED taillights. The Escalade sat on standard 22-inch wheels for the first time, offering a commanding presence. Pricing started at just over $90,000 Canadian for the base Luxury trim, with higher trims like Premium Luxury and Sport priced at $99,898. The test vehicle, a Premium Luxury trim, included features like a 36-speaker AKG sound system and a Driver Assist Tech Package, bringing its price to $119,988 Canadian. The Escalade was praised for its luxurious interior, although some materials, like the plastic lower dashboard, were criticized given the high price point.

In contrast, the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received a styling refresh, featuring new front and rear bumpers, LED headlights and taillights, and a new grille. The changes added 6 centimetres to its length, giving it a more extroverted look compared to the previous model. The Atlas rode on the same MQB platform, with trim levels offering different wheel sizes, from 18-inch on the base to 21-inch with the R-Line package. The interior was minimalist, with a focus on functionality, although material quality was noted as below average. The Atlas offered a standard seven-seat configuration, with available second-row captain’s chairs on higher trims. Despite its spacious third row, the second-row legroom was limited, and the overall ride quality was criticized for being harsh.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade offered a choice between a standard 6.2-litre V8 engine and a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel inline-six. The V8, producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering robust acceleration. It featured Dynamic Fuel Management and an automatic stop/start system for improved efficiency, with a combined fuel consumption of 14.8 litres per 100 kilometres. The turbo-diesel, with 277 horsepower and the same torque as the V8, offered a combined average of 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres. The Escalade's ride and handling were significantly improved with a new independent rear suspension, Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, and 4-Corner Air Ride suspension, providing a smooth and controlled driving experience.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas came with two engine options: a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four producing 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.6-litre VR6 with 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft. Both engines were mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with standard 4Motion AWD. The base engine offered adequate acceleration but was criticized for rough shifts and truck-like handling. The VR6 provided better performance, with a towing capacity of 2,267 kilograms. Fuel efficiency for the four-cylinder was rated at 10.9 litres per 100 kilometres combined, while the VR6 was rated at 12.9 litres per 100 kilometres. Despite its off-road modes, the Atlas was best suited for pavement, with limited off-road capability.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade boasted a larger and more functional cabin, thanks to its new independent rear suspension and longer wheelbase. Front-seat occupants enjoyed standard heated seats, with ventilated and massaging options available on higher trims. The second-row offered heated captain’s chairs or a bench seat, with improved leg support. The third-row was significantly more spacious, accommodating adults comfortably. Cargo capacity was impressive, with 722 litres behind the third row, expandable to 3,426 litres with all seats folded. The extended-length Escalade ESV offered even more space, with up to 4,044 litres of cargo volume.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas provided average passenger and cargo space for its segment, with 2,741 litres behind the front seats and 583 litres with all seats up. It offered more third-row legroom than most competitors, but at the expense of second-row legroom. The second-row bench was uncomfortable, with thin cushions. The Atlas featured a straightforward folding mechanism for the rear seats, and access to the third row was easy. The interior controls were logically laid out, with up to five USB ports and a wireless charging pad available. The Atlas also offered up to 17 cupholders, catering to family needs.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade was equipped with a 38-inch curved OLED display, offering high pixel density and vibrant colours. The system included a 14.2-inch instrumentation screen with Gauge, AR Camera, and Map displays, although switching between them was cumbersome. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but some connectivity issues were noted. The Escalade featured a 19-speaker AKG sound system, with an optional 36-speaker AKG Reference system. The AR navigation and voice amplification system were highlights, although voice recognition had limitations. A head-up display was standard on most trims, providing essential driving information.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas included Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The base trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while higher trims featured an 8-inch screen with satellite radio. The Digital Cockpit was available on upper trims, offering a 10.3-inch digital display. The Atlas was set to receive the MIBIII infotainment system later in the year, with improved features. The base audio system was decent, with a 12-speaker Fender system available on the Execline trim. The infotainment system was functional but lacked visual appeal, with plain and text-heavy displays.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade featured a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. A Safety Alert Seat provided haptic feedback for potential hazards. The Escalade also included Teen Driver technology, parking assist sensors, and a surround-view camera. Higher trims added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and lane-keeping assistance. An optional Driver Assist Tech Package enhanced safety with adaptive cruise control and emergency braking. The Escalade was set to receive Super Cruise technology later in the year, offering hands-free driving on select highways.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top ratings in IIHS crash tests, with mixed headlight ratings. It had not yet been rated by NHTSA for 2021, but the 2020 model received a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and traffic-jam assist. The Atlas was expected to receive Travel Assist and Emergency Assist later in the year, enhancing its driver assistance capabilities.