2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design, characterized by its blunt and bulbous nose, which gave it an aggressive appearance. Over time, however, this design became more familiar and less striking. The SUV's styling was further accentuated by black windshield pillars that created a floating roof effect, and swollen haunches that attempted to balance the overall look. Despite the presence of 20-inch alloy wheels, the exaggerated quarter panels seemed to overwhelm the design. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid offered a two-tone interior with soft leather for the Limited and Platinum trims, though the dashboard's asymmetrical design and glossy black detailing could suffer from reflections. The mix of illumination colours in the gauges also contributed to a busy appearance.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas maintained a big and boxy design that was both appealing and bold. The Execline trim featured R-Line design elements, including 21-inch alloy wheels that complemented the SUV's exaggerated fenders. The interior of the Atlas was praised for its simplicity and premium flair, although some materials were crafted to a low-cost point, resulting in an abundance of hard, shiny plastics. The Atlas's interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample head and legroom for all passengers, including those in the third row. The SUV also offered numerous storage areas, though many were unlined, leading to unwanted noise from items sliding around.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, resulting in improved fuel efficiency. The new engine delivered 243 horsepower and was rated at 6.7 L/100 km in combined driving. Despite the efficiency gains, the Highlander Hybrid's performance was less thrilling, with adequate power for climbing hills and reaching freeway speeds, but the engine sounded strained during hard acceleration. The steering was lifeless, and the SUV's handling was characterized by unwanted body movement. However, the regenerative brakes were an improvement over the previous generation, and the Highlander Hybrid excelled in providing a quiet and comfortable ride on smooth roads.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and a 3.6-litre V6 engine. The turbo-four produced 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, but required premium fuel for optimal performance. The V6, delivering 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, was recommended for its towing capacity of up to 2,268 kilograms. Despite its power, the V6's acceleration was leisurely, and the drivetrain lacked refinement. The Atlas featured multiple driving modes and an AWD system that could decouple the rear wheels for improved fuel economy. While the Atlas's handling was sound, the ride quality was affected by the 21-inch wheels, leading to a busy ride on uneven surfaces.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum offered comfortable accommodations for the driver and front passenger, with power-adjustable seats and leather upholstery. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight, but the narrow interior made it uncomfortable for three adults. The third-row seat was cramped and lacked support, making it unsuitable for adults. Cargo space was generous, with 453 litres behind the third row and a maximum capacity of 2,387 litres. However, the storage areas were less accommodating than the previous generation, and the wireless smartphone charger blocked access to the storage bin.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space and comfort, seating seven people with ample head and legroom, even in the third row. The low step-in height made entry and exit easy, and the SUV featured numerous storage areas, though many were unlined. Cargo space was exceptional, with 583 litres behind the third row and a maximum capacity of 2,741 litres. The Atlas's interior was praised for its comfort and practicality, making it a standout in its class.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Platinum trim included an 11-speaker JBL audio system, navigation, and connected services. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons for easy access. However, the JBL sound system's audio quality was inconsistent, and the voice recognition system did not control climate settings. The Highlander also featured Driver Easy Speak technology and a video rearview mirror for improved visibility.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas featured the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, with an 8-inch display standard and a 10.25-inch display on higher trims. The MIB3 infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, and Car-Net connected services. The Execline trim included a 12-speaker Fender audio system. Despite the impressive technology, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and a cumbersome process for tuning the radio. The voice recognition system struggled with navigation commands, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto a more reliable option.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which included automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning with steering assist. The system also featured intersection support and emergency steering assistance. While effective, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance could be inconsistent. The Highlander received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a comprehensive suite 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 a surround-view camera system. However, the Lane Assist technology struggled with old construction markings and exit ramps. The Atlas did not earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, and received four-star ratings for frontal-impact tests from the NHTSA.