2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2021 BMW X5

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 added 6 centimetres to its length, giving it a more extroverted appearance compared to the previous model. The R-Line trim package further enhanced its sporty look with unique bumpers and side skirts. 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 approach, with a standard seven-seat configuration and available second-row captain’s chairs on higher trims. However, the material quality was below average, with cheap-feeling plastics and faux wood and metal trim.

The 2021 BMW X5 maintained its signature BMW design, featuring the iconic kidney grille and adaptive LED headlights. The xLine models boasted an upscale appearance with matte aluminum grilles and satin aluminum finishes, while the M Sport styling added body-colour trim and high-gloss black accents for a sportier look. Inside, the X5 shared many design elements with other BMW models, offering a familiar yet luxurious environment. The interior featured leather and soft-touch materials, although the abundance of black plastic was prone to collecting dust. M Sport models included unique styling elements like an M sports steering wheel and exclusive interior trim strips.

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 hp and 266 lb-ft. 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 every road imperfection felt in the cabin. The Atlas had a towing capacity of 2,267 kilograms with the VR6 engine, while the four-cylinder models were limited to 900 kilograms. Fuel efficiency was unimpressive, 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 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i model featured a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine producing 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The X5 M50i came with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft, while the X5 M offered up to 617 hp with the Competition Package. The new xDrive45e plug-in hybrid model combined a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine with a 24-kilowatt-hour battery, achieving 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, and offering up to 50 kilometres of all-electric range. The X5's driving dynamics were less engaging than expected, with steering issues at higher speeds. Fuel efficiency varied, with the xDrive45e rated at 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres when using electricity and gas.

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. It provided more third-row legroom than most competitors, but at the expense of second-row legroom. The second-row bench seat was uncomfortable, with thin cushions. The Atlas featured a tall driving position, but forward visibility was limited. It came with standard ultrasonic parking sensors and available active park assist. The interior controls were logically laid out, with up to five USB ports and a wireless charging pad. The Atlas also offered up to 17 cupholders.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with comfortable seating for short trips. The front seats became uncomfortable after extended periods, and the rear seats were suitable for children and adults. The X5 offered an optional third row, although it was not tested. The split liftgate was easy to operate, and the air suspension allowed for vehicle height adjustment when loading cargo. The X5 xDrive45e had slightly less cargo space than the traditional X5, but the difference was negligible. The climate controls were easy to manage, and the wireless phone charging pad kept technology out of the driver's line of sight.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas came with Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The base trim featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while higher trims had an 8-inch screen with satellite radio. The Digital Cockpit was available on higher trims, replacing analog gauges with a 10.3-inch digital display. The Atlas was set to receive the MIBIII infotainment system later in the model year, offering 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 BMW X5 featured a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The standard features included a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, and various connectivity options. Buyers could upgrade to a head-up display, quad-zone climate control, and premium audio systems. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly once familiar. The wireless Apple CarPlay had connectivity issues, often taking over musical operations unexpectedly.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top "good" ratings in all IIHS crash tests, with a "marginal" rating for child-seat anchors and mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA had not published ratings for the 2021 model, but the 2020 model received 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 BMW X5 came with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems, particularly in bright sunlight and rain. The X5 received nearly all "Good" ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.