2021 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2021 Volkswagen Atlas

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, which added 6 centimetres to its length. These updates gave the Atlas a more extroverted appearance compared to the previous model, although some elements like the fake chrome exhaust tips were considered less appealing. The R-Line trim added sportier bumpers and side skirts, enhancing its visual appeal. Despite these cosmetic changes, the Atlas retained its MQB platform, shared with other VW models like the Jetta and Golf, showcasing its versatility. The interior followed a minimalist design, with a standard seven-seat configuration and options for real leather upholstery on higher trims. However, the material quality was criticized for feeling cheap, particularly in the mid-level test car.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek, on the other hand, was designed to capture the rugged appeal of crossovers by building on the Impreza hatchback's foundation. It featured black body cladding, model-specific alloy wheels, and a taller ride height, providing 22 centimetres of ground clearance. These changes gave the Crosstrek a more SUV-like character, complemented by vibrant colour options like Plasma Yellow Pearl. The Crosstrek shared the Subaru Global Platform with other models, ensuring a refined driving experience. Inside, the Crosstrek's interior was functional but plain, with some accents clashing with exterior colours. The model offered water-repellant upholstery, which was practical for outdoor adventures.

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 hp and 266 lb-ft. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Motion all-wheel drive. The 4Motion system could switch to front-wheel drive to save fuel but provided power to the rear wheels when needed. Despite these features, the driving experience with the base engine was underwhelming, with rough shifts and truck-like handling. The Atlas had a towing capacity of up to 2,267 kilograms with the VR6 engine, but its fuel efficiency was not impressive, with ratings of 10.9 L/100 km for the four-cylinder and 12.9 L/100 km for the VR6.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek introduced a new 2.5-litre boxer-four engine for the Outdoor and Limited trims, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. Other trims continued with the 2.0-litre boxer-four, offering 152 hp and 145 lb-ft. The boxer engine's design provided a lower centre of gravity, enhancing handling. A six-speed manual transmission was available with the 2.0-litre engine, but most buyers opted for the CVT. All trims featured standard all-wheel drive, with X-Mode for improved off-road capability. Despite the new engine, the Crosstrek's acceleration remained adequate, with noticeable CVT droning. The ride was comfortable, with low wind noise, but the higher centre of gravity resulted in increased body roll.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas, a three-row crossover, offered 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, which was the worst in its class. The second-row bench seat was uncomfortable, with thin cushions. The Atlas featured a sliding second-row bench for easier third-row access. Controls were logically laid out, with up to five USB ports and a wireless charging pad available. The Atlas had a tall driving position, but forward visibility was limited. It included standard ultrasonic parking sensors and optional active park assist.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek shared its interior dimensions with the Impreza hatchback, offering competitive passenger space but limited cargo space. It provided 588 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,565 litres with them folded. The Crosstrek included a rear-seat reminder to prevent leaving children or pets unattended. Up front, it featured a cubby hole with USB and auxiliary ports, but rear-seat passengers had limited access to USB ports. The driving position was higher than the Impreza's, with good outward visibility due to large side windows.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas came with Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The base trim 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, 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 Subaru Crosstrek used Subaru's Starlink infotainment system, with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims had an 8-inch touchscreen, with navigation standard on the Limited trim. The Crosstrek featured a second screen above the main touchscreen, displaying redundant information. The 8-inch touchscreen was easy to navigate, with large analog knobs and buttons for essential functions. EyeSight driver-assistance features were controlled via chunky steering wheel buttons.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received a "good" rating 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. All trims featured standard 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 Subaru Crosstrek earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS. EyeSight driver-assist features were standard on CVT-equipped models, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Higher trims offered additional features like automatic high beams and blind-spot monitoring. EyeSight's cameras were positioned behind the windshield, limiting functionality in certain conditions but providing better protection.