2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

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 is shared with other VW models like the Jetta and Golf. The interior followed a minimalist approach, with a standard seven-seat configuration and available second-row captain’s chairs on higher trims. However, the material quality was below average, with cheap-feeling plastics and faux wood and metal trim.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 featured a rugged exterior design, with boxy fender flares and a scowling front end that set it apart from other compact crossovers. Built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, the RAV4 offered a solid foundation, though its mechanical components were more akin to a Camry than a 4Runner. The RAV4 Trail model added a retro look with an Ice Edge roof and orange interior accents, while the TRD Off-Road package included matte black wheels and all-terrain tires. Inside, the RAV4 had functional touches like large rubberized knobs and door handles, with SofTex upholstery on the TRD Off-Road model. However, real leather was not available, even on the top trims.

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 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 RAV4 came with a single 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RAV4 offered front-wheel drive as standard, with optional all-wheel drive. While the engine achieved 40% thermal efficiency, the transmission struggled to keep up, and the steering lacked feel. The RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 Prime offered more power and better fuel efficiency. On the highway, the RAV4 provided a quiet cabin and comfortable ride. Off-road capabilities were enhanced in the Trail and TRD Off-Road models, with torque-vectoring all-wheel drive and 21.7 centimetres of ground clearance. The TRD Off-Road had a towing capacity of 1,588 kilograms, while other RAV4 models could tow 680 kilograms.

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 second-row legroom was lacking. The second-row bench seat was uncomfortable, with thin cushions. The Atlas featured a driver-focused layout with controls within easy reach, up to five USB ports, and a wireless charging pad. It had a tall driving position, but forward visibility was limited. Parking sensors and low-speed automatic braking were standard, with active park assist available on higher trims.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 had a tall, upright roof providing good headroom and visibility. However, legroom in both rows was slightly behind competitors. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats had hard cushions. Cargo space was above average at 1,059 litres with the rear seats in place and 1,977 litres with them folded. The RAV4 featured oversized knobs and easy-to-use controls, but lacked large cupholders and console storage space. Wireless charging was available, but the console design prioritized vehicle controls over storage.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas came with standard 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, 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 RAV4 included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Most trims had a 7-inch touchscreen, with Trail and Limited models getting an 8-inch screen. The RAV4 Prime offered a 9-inch screen. Up to five USB ports were available, and a JBL premium audio system was optional. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with well-positioned graphics and shortcut buttons. However, it lacked the head-up display available on the RAV4 Prime.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top "good" ratings in all IIHS crash tests, but had 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 RAV4 earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. It missed the "Top Safety Pick+" rating due to mixed headlight scores. The NHTSA gave the RAV4 a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more. A 360-degree camera system was available in certain packages.