2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas underwent a styling refresh that included new front and rear bumpers, standard LED headlights and taillights, and a new grille design. These changes extended the vehicle's length by 6 centimetres, giving it a more extroverted appearance compared to the previous model. The R-Line trim added sportier bumpers and side skirts, although the fake chrome exhaust tips were considered a bit cheesy. Despite these cosmetic updates, the Atlas retained its MQB platform, which is shared with other VW models like the Jetta and Golf. The interior followed a minimalist design, with a standard seven-seat configuration across three rows. However, the material quality was below average, with cheap-feeling plastics and simulated wood and metal trim.

The 2021 Audi Q5 maintained its sharp and modern design, characterized by LED headlights and a prominent Singleframe grille. The body featured crisp character lines, and the rear boasted bold taillights, contributing to its classy appearance. The Q5 PHEV variant included S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, along with standard 19-inch wheels. Inside, the Q5 offered a high level of material authenticity, with real wood and metal accents. The 10.1-inch touchscreen was well-placed, and the second row provided ample space with standard leather upholstery. The overall design was uncluttered, with smartly grouped controls and a focus on functionality.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-litre VR6 engine with 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Motion all-wheel drive. The driving experience with the base engine was underwhelming, with adequate acceleration but rough shifts. Handling was truck-like, and the ride quality was poor, with noticeable impacts from road imperfections. The Atlas had a towing capacity of 2,267 kilograms with the VR6 engine, while the four-cylinder model could tow up to 900 kilograms. Fuel efficiency was not impressive, with the four-cylinder rated at 10.9 litres per 100 kilometres combined and the VR6 at 12.9 litres per 100 kilometres combined.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV combined a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine with an electric motor, delivering a total output of 362 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed the Q5 PHEV to accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometres per hour in 5.3 seconds. The PHEV offered impressive fuel efficiency, with a rating of 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres combined. The drivetrain included a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission and full-time Quattro all-wheel drive. The Q5 PHEV could operate in various modes, including electric-only, hybrid, and battery-reserve modes. Handling was sporty, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas was designed as a family hauler, offering three rows of seating and a total cargo space of 2,741 litres behind the front seats. With all seats up, it provided 583 litres of cargo space. The Atlas offered more third-row legroom than most competitors, but second-row legroom was limited. The second-row bench seat was uncomfortable, with thin cushions. The interior featured logically laid-out controls, up to five USB ports, and a wireless charging pad. The Atlas had a tall driving position, but forward visibility was less than optimal. It included standard ultrasonic parking sensors and available active park assist.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV offered a well-packaged interior with 710 litres of cargo space behind the second row and 1,503 litres with the second row folded. The second row provided reasonable legroom and ample headroom and shoulder room. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with heating and optional ventilation. The interior featured smartly laid-out controls, a pair of cupholders, and several storage compartments. The Q5 PHEV's design was uncluttered, with a focus on functionality.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas came with 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 higher trims, offering a 10.3-inch digital display. The Atlas was set to receive the MIBIII infotainment system later in the model year, which would include multi-phone pairing and improved voice recognition. The base audio system was decent, with a 12-speaker Fender audio system available on the Execline trim.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi's MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, along with a Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster. The cabin offered customizable LED ambient lighting and a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system with 19 speakers. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto were included, providing seamless smartphone integration.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top "good" ratings in all IIHS crash tests, except for a "marginal" rating for child-seat anchors and mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA awarded the 2020 model a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist available on higher trims. The Atlas was set to receive more advanced driver aids later in the model year.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the 2020 gasoline model received top "good" ratings. The NHTSA awarded the 2021 gasoline model five stars. Safety features included six airbags, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera. Available driver-assistance features included Audi Pre Sense front, adaptive cruise control, and traffic-sign recognition.