2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2021 Honda CR-V

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 updates, the Atlas maintained its boxy, high-riding utility vehicle form, with a drag coefficient of 0.34. 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.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V's design was more about function than form, with styling that blended in with other compact crossovers. It offered a few distinguishing features like a unique grille and chromed plastic accents, but overall, it wasn't a vehicle purchased for its looks. The CR-V was available in seven colours, though most were shades of grey, black, or white. Inside, the CR-V provided a modern look with angular seat designs and a choice of cloth or leather upholstery depending on the trim. While it didn't stand out in terms of aesthetics, the CR-V was designed to comfortably fit five people and their gear, with a focus on practicality and usability.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a standard 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. The Atlas's handling was truck-like, and the ride quality was poor, with noticeable impacts from road imperfections. Despite having an Offroad mode and 20.3 centimetres of ground clearance, the Atlas was best suited for pavement. The VR6 models offered a towing capacity of 2,267 kilograms, 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 Honda CR-V featured a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 190 horsepower across all trims. It provided smooth and steady acceleration, with a 0-100 km/h time of about 8 seconds. The CR-V's continuously variable transmission (CVT) maintained constant engine revs, offering a less engaging driving experience compared to competitors with conventional automatic transmissions. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on higher trims. The CR-V's handling and ride quality were decent, with a MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension. While not designed for thrilling performance, the CR-V delivered predictable and reliable driving dynamics.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas was designed as a family hauler, offering three rows of seating and a total cargo space of 2,741 litres with the seats folded. 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 driver-focused layout with easy-to-reach controls and up to five USB ports. It also offered up to 17 cupholders and a wireless charging pad on most trims. The tall driving position was typical for crossovers, but forward visibility was limited. Parking sensors and low-speed automatic braking were standard, with active park assist available on higher trims.

The 2021 Honda CR-V prioritized function, fitting five people comfortably and offering ample cargo space. It boasted over 100 litres more interior volume than the Toyota RAV4, with 1,065 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded. The CR-V's tailgate options varied by trim, with a hands-free power tailgate available on higher trims. Roof rails were standard on most trims, enhancing its practicality for carrying additional gear. The CR-V's interior was designed for usability, with a focus on comfort and convenience for both passengers and cargo.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas came equipped with Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The base trim featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while higher trims received an 8-inch screen with satellite radio. Volkswagen's 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 Honda CR-V featured a 7-inch high-definition touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard. Lower trims had varying speaker setups, while the Touring trim offered a 300-watt system with a subwoofer. The CR-V EX-L trim included Sirius XM and HD radio, with satellite navigation available on the Touring and Black Edition trims. Charging ports were abundant, with USB ports in the front and second rows, and a wireless phone charger introduced on the Touring trim.

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, including Travel Assist and Emergency Assist on the Execline trim.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning a five-star NHTSA overall crash test rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. It received a "Good" rating in the original side crash test and an "Acceptable" rating for its LATCH system. Honda's approach to safety was to make advanced features standard across all trims, with the Honda Sensing system including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. The only feature not standard on the base LX trim was blind spot monitoring, which was included on higher trims.