2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2021 Buick Enclave

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas underwent a styling refresh, featuring new front and rear bumpers, standard LED headlights and taillights, and a redesigned grille. These updates added 6 centimetres to its length, giving it a more extroverted appearance compared to the previous model. The R-Line trim offered sportier bumpers and side skirts, while the minimalist interior design focused on functionality. However, the material quality was below average, with cheap plastics and faux wood and metal trim.

In contrast, the 2021 Buick Enclave maintained its status as a large, impressive SUV, with a focus on luxury and comfort. The Avenir trim added a unique grille, brightwork, and polished 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave featured a minimalist design with soft, perforated leather and tasteful accents. Despite its upscale appearance, the wood trim was not genuine. The Enclave's simplicity extended to its controls, although the electronic transmission shifter required some acclimation.

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 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 Atlas had a towing capacity of up to 2,267 kilograms with the VR6 engine. However, the driving experience was underwhelming, with rough shifts and poor ride quality. Fuel efficiency was also unimpressive, with the four-cylinder engine rated at 10.9 litres per 100 kilometres combined.

The 2021 Buick Enclave featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine generating 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard on the Essence trim, while all-wheel drive was available on higher trims. The Enclave's acceleration was strong, and the suspension provided a smooth ride across various driving conditions. Fuel efficiency was rated at 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres combined, with a range of over 900 kilometres on a single tank.

The Volkswagen Atlas offered average passenger and cargo space, with 2,741 litres behind the front seats and 583 litres with all seats up. It provided more third-row legroom than most competitors but sacrificed second-row comfort. The interior featured a driver-focused layout with up to five USB ports and a wireless charging pad. The Atlas had a tall driving position, but forward visibility was limited.

The Buick Enclave excelled in interior space, offering comfortable seating for six or seven passengers. The Avenir trim included power-adjustable, massaging front seats and heated second-row captain’s chairs. Cargo space was generous, with 668 litres behind the third row and up to 2,764 litres with seats folded. The Enclave's large rear doors facilitated easy access to the third row.

The Volkswagen Atlas came with Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims featured an 8-inch touchscreen and Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit. The infotainment system was user-friendly but lacked visual appeal. A 12-speaker Fender audio system was available on the Execline trim.

The Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations with quick response and logical interface. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. However, the 8-inch touchscreen and 10-speaker Bose sound system were less competitive. The Enclave offered a rear camera mirror for enhanced rear visibility.

The Volkswagen Atlas received top ratings in IIHS crash tests, with mixed headlight ratings. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The Atlas was set to receive more advanced driver aids later in the model year.

The Buick Enclave's safety features were limited to higher trims. The Driver Confidence Plus Package included forward-collision warning and lane-keep assist. Adaptive cruise control was available only with the Avenir Technology Package. The Enclave received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA but lacked advanced driver assistance technologies.