2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport vs 2021 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport presented a unique blend of SUV ruggedness and car-like features, with its low roofline and aggressively-raked rear hatch. This design choice, reminiscent of luxury crossover coupes, resulted in a somewhat awkward aesthetic. The vehicle was shorter and lower than its seven-seat counterpart, maintaining the same wheelbase and platform. Standard LED lighting and varying wheel sizes across trims added to its exterior appeal, while the R-Line trims introduced sportier styling elements. Inside, the minimalist design was visually appealing but marred by subpar materials, with leather upholstery and hard plastics failing to convey a premium feel. The color scheme was dark and uninviting, and the flat-bottom steering wheel seemed out of place for a non-performance model.

In contrast, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator exuded elegance and sophistication, distinguishing itself from its Ford Expedition roots. Its design was characterized by simple rectilinear shapes, a monochromatic grille, and tasteful chrome accents, creating a classy appearance. The Pristine White model, with its illuminated Lincoln logo, was particularly striking during winter tests. Inside, the Navigator impressed with its seven color palettes and attention to finer details, such as layered wood trim and a minimalist digital instrument panel. The materials were of high quality, with tight panel gaps and luxurious textures, especially in the Black Label trims. The Perfect Position seats offered unparalleled comfort with 30 adjustable settings, making the Navigator's interior one of the most refined in its class.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-liter VR6 engine delivering 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The VR6 engine provided a lively acceleration experience, though it lacked midrange power, and the transmission was slow to react. The ride quality was harsh, with noticeable bumps and potholes, and the cabin allowed significant wind and tire noise. The Cross Sport's handling was truck-like, with considerable body roll and loose steering. Towing capacity varied between 5,000 pounds for the VR6 and 2,000 pounds for the four-cylinder model. AWD versions featured Active Control with multiple drive modes and 8 inches of ground clearance.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing an impressive 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided a responsive and powerful driving experience. The Navigator's 4WD system was smooth and efficient, with a towing capacity of 8,300 pounds for 4WD models and 8,700 pounds for RWD models. Fuel economy was poor, averaging in the teens, but the Navigator excelled in highway refinement and power. The adaptive dampers offered a less supple ride compared to competitors, and the steering and brakes lacked precision. However, the Navigator's low-end thrust and quiet cabin made it a comfortable and powerful choice for long journeys.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered competitive interior space for a two-row midsize crossover, with excellent front-seat and rear-seat legroom. However, 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 second-row seats featured a 60/40 split-fold and 14-degree backrest recline. The vehicle included various storage solutions, such as cargo nets, cupholders, and a large center console.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator boasted a spacious interior, accommodating up to eight passengers with its optional bench seating. The boxy design maximized cargo space, offering 19 cubic feet behind the third row, 57 behind the second, and 103 in total. The long-wheelbase Navigator L provided even more storage capacity. The rear glass opened separately from the tailgate, adding convenience. The Navigator Reserve featured heated second-row seats and a three-zone climate system. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with numerous settings for a personalized experience. Visibility was excellent, though parking was challenging due to the vehicle's size.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport featured two infotainment systems: the MIB2 with a 6.5-inch touchscreen for the base trim and the MIB3 with an 8-inch touchscreen for higher trims. Both systems included USB-C ports, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, and pinch-to-zoom screens. The MIB3 added multiple-device pairing and updated voice recognition. Higher trims offered a Volkswagen Digital Cockpit and a 12-speaker Fender audio system. The MIB3 system was slow to load, and the audio quality was underwhelming. The Digital Cockpit provided customizable display options, and analog controls simplified basic functions.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's technology felt dated compared to competitors, with a 10-inch touchscreen and low-resolution cameras. The infotainment system lacked wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity and onboard apps. However, it was intuitive and easy to use, with fast voice recognition. The Navigator offered 4G WiFi, wireless charging, and a smartwatch app. Remote app functions and SiriusXM traffic data were included for several years. Rear entertainment options included Roku streaming and various connections. Drive mode animations added a touch of elegance to the instrument panel.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport received top "Good" scores in IIHS crash tests, with mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. Unique to the Cross Sport were the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and Intelligent Crash Response System. New for 2021 were Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, offering advanced driver-assist capabilities.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with lower scores for rollover resistance. The IIHS had not rated the Navigator. Optional inflatable rear seat belts were a unique safety feature. Standard safety equipment included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and auto high beams. Adaptive cruise control was optional, but the Navigator's self-steering capabilities were less advanced than competitors.