2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2021 Nissan Armada

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 extended the Atlas by 6 centimetres, giving it a more extroverted appearance compared to the previous model. The R-Line trim added sportier elements like 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 design, with a standard seven-seat configuration and options for second-row captain’s chairs. However, the material quality was below average, with cheap-feeling plastics and faux wood and metal trim.

The 2021 Nissan Armada received a significant facelift, aligning its design with Nissan's new signature look. The exterior updates included a new grille, fenders, bumpers, and LED lighting, giving it a modern yet robust appearance. The Armada was available in SL and Platinum trims, with the latter offering captain’s chairs as an option. Despite the exterior refresh, the interior remained somewhat dated, with a mix of modern and older design elements. The leather and quilted leather seating were comfortable, but other design choices, like the rouched door panels and hard plastic inlays, detracted from the overall aesthetic.

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 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, but only 900 kilograms with the four-cylinder engine. Fuel efficiency was not a strong point, 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 driving experience was underwhelming, with rough shifts and poor ride quality, especially with the 20-inch wheels.

The 2021 Nissan Armada was equipped with a 5.6-litre V8 engine delivering 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. The Armada featured automatic four-wheel drive and was capable off-road, with a skid plate, double-wishbone suspension, and 23.4 centimetres of ground clearance. It had a best-in-class towing capacity of 3,856 kilograms. However, fuel efficiency was poor, with an estimated 15.4 litres per 100 kilometres combined. The Armada's handling improved over previous models, but its large size made maneuvering in tight spaces challenging.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas offered average passenger and cargo space for its segment, with 2,741 litres of cargo space behind the front seats and 583 litres with all seats up. It provided more third-row legroom than most competitors but sacrificed second-row legroom. The interior featured a driver-focused layout with easy-to-reach controls and up to five USB ports. The Atlas had a tall driving position, but forward visibility was limited. Parking sensors and optional active park assist helped with parking.

The 2021 Nissan Armada, as a full-size SUV, required a step up to enter, aided by standard running boards and handles. The interior was spacious, with 10-way power-adjustable front seats and optional second-row captain’s chairs. Cargo space was 1,413 litres behind the second row and 2,692 litres with both rear rows folded. The high load floor made loading difficult for shorter individuals. Small-item storage was limited, but the centre console offered ample space. The Armada had nine cup holders and four bottle holders.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas came with Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The base model had a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while higher trims featured an 8-inch screen with satellite radio. The 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 year, enhancing features like voice recognition and navigation. The base audio system was decent, with an available 12-speaker Fender system on the Execline trim.

The 2021 Nissan Armada featured a class-leading 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, offering clear views from the camera system. Standard tech included navigation, a 13-speaker Bose stereo, satellite radio, Bluetooth, USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and wireless Apple CarPlay. The Platinum trim offered a rearview camera mirror and rear-seat entertainment. The Armada's steering wheel allowed limited control of the infotainment system, and the analog gauges were functional but not visually appealing.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top ratings in IIHS crash tests, except for a "marginal" rating for child-seat anchors and mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA had not rated 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 year.

The 2021 Nissan Armada had not been fully rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but it received a three-star rollover rating. Standard safety features included Nissan Safety Shield 360, with technologies like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. Additional safety features included adaptive cruise control and a rear camera mirror. However, the Armada lacked advanced driving assist technologies like Nissan ProPilot Assist.