2021 Dodge Durango vs 2021 Volkswagen Atlas

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 package further enhanced its sporty look with unique bumpers and side skirts. Despite these cosmetic changes, the Atlas retained its MQB platform, shared with other VW models like the Jetta and Golf. The interior was minimalist, with a focus on functionality, though the material quality was below average, with cheap-feeling plastics and faux wood and metal trim.

In contrast, the 2021 Dodge Durango maintained its muscular stance and athletic styling, aligning with its Charger and Challenger siblings. The new SRT Hellcat model showcased a cold-air scoop, twin-pipe exhaust, and LED headlamps. The Durango offered a variety of wheel options and a choice of 11 exterior colours. Inside, it featured a new instrument panel and either an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect 5 system. The cabin was spacious, with options for cloth, suede, and leather upholstery. The Durango's updates brought it in line with Dodge's muscle cars, offering a model for nearly every preference, from track-ready equipment to luxurious appointments.

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 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 bump felt in the cabin. The Atlas had a towing capacity of 2,267 kilograms with the VR6, but only 900 kilograms with the four-cylinder engine. 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 Dodge Durango offered four engine options: a 3.6-litre V6 with up to 295 hp, a 5.7-litre V8 with 360 hp, a 392 HEMI V8 with 475 hp, and a supercharged 6.2-litre HEMI V8 with 710 hp. All engines were paired with eight-speed automatic transmissions, and AWD was standard in Canada. The Durango's performance was impressive, with smooth acceleration and responsive steering. The SRT Hellcat model excelled on the track, with powerful brakes and configurable drive modes. The R/T model offered a Tow N Go Package, with a towing capacity of 8,700 pounds. The Durango's performance pages provided detailed vehicle performance information, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas was designed as a family hauler, offering average passenger and cargo space for its segment. It provided 2,741 litres of cargo space behind the front seats and 583 litres with all seats up. The third-row legroom was generous, but the second-row legroom was lacking. The second-row bench seat was uncomfortable, with thin cushions. The Atlas featured a tall driving position, but forward visibility was limited. It offered up to 17 cupholders and multiple USB ports, along with a wireless charging pad. Parking sensors and active park assist were available on higher trims.

The 2021 Dodge Durango excelled as a family hauler, with comfortable seating for up to seven across three rows. The front and second-row seats were spacious, and the third row was more accommodating than many competitors. The Durango offered average cargo space for its class, with a focus on functionality. Dodge's improvements in fit and finish were evident, with the Durango standing out from previous models. The SUV's midsize packaging made it versatile, balancing athletic design with family-friendly features.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas came with Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The base model 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 year, offering improved features. The base audio system was decent, with a 12-speaker Fender audio system available on the Execline trim.

The 2021 Dodge Durango featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen on the SXT and GT models, with higher trims getting a 10.1-inch screen running the Uconnect 5 system. This system was faster and more personalized, offering connected services, navigation, and wireless smartphone connectivity. The Durango also offered a rear-seat entertainment system with Blu-ray and DVD players. The gauge cluster had a unique design, though the speedometer was difficult to read. The TomTom navigation system was user-friendly, with clear graphics and quick response times.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top ratings in IIHS crash tests, with a "marginal" rating for child-seat anchors and mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA gave 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 year.

The 2021 Dodge Durango's safety features were limited compared to rivals. It came standard with a back-up camera and passive safety features. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The IIHS rated the Durango as "Marginal" for a small overlap frontal impact, while the NHTSA gave it a five-star side crash-test rating and a four-star front crash and rollover rating.