2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2021 Toyota Highlander

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 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 below average, with cheap-feeling plastics and faux wood and metal trim.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander stood out with its distinctive design, featuring wide headlights, a long hood, and an assertive trapezoidal grille. The Highlander’s character line along the side was reminiscent of the Supra sports car, while the taillights borrowed elements from Lexus models. The new XSE trim level added a sportier front end and suspension tuning, although it didn’t transform the Highlander into a performance vehicle. The Limited trim, just below the Platinum, offered an upscale appearance with chrome accents and a luxurious interior. The Highlander’s interior boasted near-flawless fit and finish, with comfortable tan leather seats and attractive wood details, making it a strong contender for those seeking comfort and convenience.

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 4Motion system could switch to front-wheel drive under low load to save fuel. However, the driving experience with the base engine was underwhelming, with rough shifts and poor ride quality. The Atlas had a towing capacity of 2,267 kilograms with the VR6 engine, but only 900 kilograms with the four-cylinder engine. 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 Highlander featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options. While not a performance powerhouse, the Highlander provided smooth and predictable operation, making it suitable for family use. The XSE trim added sportier suspension tuning, but the Highlander remained focused on comfort. The Highlander’s powertrain compared well with competitors like the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride, offering similar horsepower and torque. The Highlander’s suspension provided a comfortable ride, although it tended to lumber through corners.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas was designed as a family hauler, offering 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 at the expense of second-row legroom. The second-row bench seat was uncomfortable, with thin cushions. The Atlas featured a straightforward folding mechanism for the second and third rows, and third-row access was relatively easy. The interior controls were logically laid out, with up to five USB ports and a wireless charging pad. The Atlas had a tall driving position, but forward visibility was limited. It offered standard ultrasonic parking sensors and available active park assist.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander excelled in passenger comfort and cargo space. It featured shelves ahead of the front seats for storage, with a wireless charging pad available on higher trims. Second-row passengers enjoyed ample legroom, with available captain’s chairs for added comfort. The third row could accommodate adults with the second row moved forward. The Highlander offered 453 litres of cargo space behind the third row, 1,150 litres with the third row folded, and 2,245 litres with both rows down. However, the rear-seat climate control vents were positioned on the ceiling, which could be uncomfortable for middle-row passengers.

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 model 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 Highlander offered an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims, with a 12.3-inch screen available on the Platinum trim. Both systems were user-friendly, with standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The navigation system was available from the Limited grade, but it struggled with points of interest. The 12.3-inch screen was bright and crisp, but only certain apps utilized its full width. A JBL audio system was available from the Limited grade, providing good sound quality.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top “good” ratings in IIHS crash tests, with 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 model year.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and intersection support. It also offered adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high beams. Blind spot monitoring was standard. The NHTSA awarded the Highlander five stars, and the IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+.