2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2021 Lincoln Navigator

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 shared with the Atlas Cross Sport model. These changes added 6 centimetres to its length, giving the Atlas a more extroverted appearance compared to the previous year's 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 of the Atlas was minimalist, with a focus on functionality, although the material quality was below average, with cheap-feeling plastics and faux wood and metal trim.

In contrast, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator exuded elegance and understatement, despite its massive size. Its styling featured simple rectilinear shapes, a body-colour grille, and tasteful chrome accents. The Navigator's interior was impressive, with seven colour palettes and high-quality materials. The Perfect Position seats offered 30 different adjustments, providing exceptional comfort. The Navigator's design was modern and muted, with a floating centre console and a minimalist digital instrument panel. While the Navigator's ride was not as refined as some competitors, its overall design and luxurious interior made it a standout in its class.

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 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Motion all-wheel drive. The Atlas's driving experience was underwhelming, with adequate acceleration but rough shifts and poor ride quality. The AWD system included various drive modes, but the Atlas lacked a 4WD system with low range, limiting its off-road capabilities. The VR6 models had a towing capacity of 2,267 kilograms, while the four-cylinder models were limited to 900 kilograms. Fuel efficiency was not impressive, with the four-cylinder models rated at 10.9 litres per 100 kilometres combined and the VR6 models at 12.9 litres per 100 kilometres combined.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a powerful twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD, the Navigator delivered impressive performance and responsiveness. Its towing capacity was a substantial 3,765 kilograms. However, fuel efficiency was poor, with an average of 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres combined. The Navigator's adaptive dampers provided a decent ride, but it lacked the refinement of some competitors. Despite this, the Navigator's power and highway refinement made it a compelling choice for those seeking a luxurious and powerful SUV.

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. While it provided more third-row legroom than most competitors, the second-row legroom was lacking. The second-row bench seat was uncomfortable, with thin cushions. The Atlas featured a user-friendly layout with controls within easy reach, and it offered up to five USB ports and a wireless charging pad. With a tall driving position, the Atlas provided good visibility, although parking could be challenging. It came with standard ultrasonic parking sensors and optional active park assist.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator boasted a spacious interior, accommodating up to eight passengers with its optional second-row bench. Its boxy shape allowed for generous cargo space, with 546 litres behind the third row and a total of 2,925 litres. The Navigator Reserve trim featured heated rear seats and a three-zone climate system. While the second-row seats could be removed for maximum storage, they lacked electric reclining and cooling options. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with numerous adjustments and massage programs. The Navigator's large windows and high driving position provided excellent visibility, although parking was challenging due to its size.

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. The Digital Cockpit was available on higher trims, replacing analog gauges with a 10.3-inch digital display. The Atlas was set to receive VW's new MIBIII infotainment system later in the year, offering improved features. While the infotainment system was easy to navigate, the displays were plain and text-heavy. The base audio system was decent, with a 12-speaker Fender audio system available on the Execline trim.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which felt small compared to newer competitors. While it offered Bluetooth and SiriusXM satellite radio, it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system was good but not exceptional. The Navigator's software was intuitive, sharing its interface with Ford models but with a unique Lincoln skin. It offered wireless device charging and the ability to use a smartphone as an ignition key. The rear entertainment system included Roku media streaming and various connectivity options.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top 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 year, including Travel Assist and Emergency Assist.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for rollover resistance. The IIHS had not rated the Navigator in its current generation. Optional inflatable rear seat belts were available for the second row. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and auto high beams. Adaptive cruise control was optional, but the Navigator's self-steering capabilities were not as advanced as some competitors.