2021 Toyota 4Runner 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. 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 cosmetic updates, the Atlas retained its MQB platform, which was 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 somewhat lacking, with cheap-feeling plastics and faux wood and metal trim.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner maintained its rugged, utilitarian design, which had aged well over the years. Its two-box body with flared fenders and trapezoidal wheel arches gave it a timeless and functional appearance. The 4Runner was available in various trims, including Trail and SR5, with options for TRD Off Road, Limited, Venture, Nightshade, and TRD Pro packages. The interior featured hard plastics, which were easy to clean and suited the SUV's mission. The dashboard had a classic design with large knobs and buttons, and the overall feel was one of durability and simplicity, appealing to those who valued a straightforward, reliable vehicle.

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 Atlas's driving experience was underwhelming, with adequate acceleration but rough shifts and poor ride quality. Despite its off-road modes and ground clearance, the Atlas was better suited for pavement due to its lack of a 4WD system with low range. The VR6 models had a towing capacity of 2,267 kilograms, while the four-cylinder models could tow up to 900 kilograms. Fuel efficiency was not impressive, 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 Toyota 4Runner, on the other hand, excelled off-road with its 4.0-litre V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. It featured a five-speed automatic transmission and a part-time 4WD drivetrain. The 4Runner's off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like A-Trac, a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select, and Crawl Control. However, on pavement, the 4Runner felt slow, heavy, and clunky, with truck-like driving characteristics. Its towing capacity matched the Atlas at 2,268 kilograms. Fuel consumption was higher, with an average of 14.0 litres per 100 kilometres during testing, including off-roading.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas was designed as a family hauler with three rows of seating. It offered 2,741 litres of cargo space behind the front seats and 583 litres with all seats up. While it provided more third-row legroom than most competitors, the second-row legroom was lacking. The interior featured a straightforward layout with controls within easy reach, and up to five USB ports and a wireless charging pad were available. The Atlas had a tall driving position, but forward visibility was limited. It came with standard ultrasonic parking sensors and optional low-speed automatic braking and active park assist.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner sat high off the ground, which could be challenging for shorter passengers. However, once inside, the seats were comfortable, with ample legroom and good visibility. The 4Runner offered a moonroof and the ability to power down all windows and the rear tailgate glass for an open-air feel. Cargo space measured up to 1,337 litres behind the back seat and 2,540 litres with the rear seat folded down. The interior storage was decent, and the back bumper served as a convenient seating area.

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 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 Toyota 4Runner's entry-level Trail grade had limited technology features. It included a windshield wiper de-icer and a 120-volt AC power outlet in the cargo area. The standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system offered Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Several packages upgraded the audio system and added a dynamic navigation system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical buttons and knobs for easy operation, even with gloves.

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 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 year.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. However, it lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning. The 4Runner received a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and a "Good" rating for roof crush strength from the IIHS. However, its protection for the driver in a small overlap frontal-impact collision was rated "Marginal."