2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas underwent a styling refresh, featuring new front and rear bumpers, standard LED headlights and taillights, and a redesigned grille shared with the Atlas Cross Sport model. 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 bumpers and side skirts, while the overall design maintained a minimalist interior approach. Despite its functional layout, the material quality was below average, with cheap-feeling plastics and faux wood and metal trim. The Atlas offered a standard seven-seat configuration, with options for second-row captain’s chairs on higher trims.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine minivan aesthetics with SUV-like styling. It featured a wide grille, sleek LED headlamp arrays, and a sculpted redesign of the sliding side doors. The Sienna's interior emphasized width and comfort, with a higher seating position and a simple, uncluttered dashboard. The second and third-row seats provided ample comfort for adults, with the second row offering sliding capabilities for flexible space configuration. The Sienna's interior materials and surfaces were of high quality, contributing to a pleasant driving experience.

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 driving experience with the base engine was underwhelming, with adequate acceleration but rough shifts. Handling was truck-like, and the ride quality was poor, with noticeable impacts from road imperfections. The Atlas had a towing capacity of up to 2,267 kilograms with the VR6 engine, but fuel efficiency was unimpressive, with combined ratings of 10.9 litres per 100 kilometres for the four-cylinder and 12.9 litres for the VR6.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first hybrid minivan, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, producing a combined 243 horsepower. The Sienna offered front-wheel drive as standard, with an all-wheel drive option available. The CVT transmission provided smooth power delivery but lacked throttle response. The Sienna's handling was improved with new suspension and steering systems, offering minimal body roll and a comfortable ride. Fuel efficiency was a highlight, with FWD models rated at 6.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined and AWD models at 6.7 litres. The Sienna's towing capacity was 1,587 kilograms, and the hybrid system's battery was cleverly integrated without impacting cargo space.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas was designed as a family hauler, offering average passenger and cargo space for its segment. It provided 2,741 litres of cargo space behind the front seats and 583 litres with all seats up. The Atlas excelled in third-row legroom but compromised on second-row space. The interior featured a driver-focused layout with easy-to-reach controls and up to five USB ports. The Atlas offered a tall driving position, but forward visibility was limited. Safety features included ultrasonic parking sensors and available active park assist.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna prioritized convenience and functionality, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that stored easily into the floor. The second row slid up to 63.5 centimetres, allowing flexible legroom and easy third-row access. The Sienna's cargo capacity was impressive, accommodating a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood. It offered 949 litres of cargo space behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The Sienna's hybrid battery was cleverly positioned under the front seats, preserving cargo space. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate added to its family-friendly features.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas featured Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility across all models. The base trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while higher trims received 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 model year, enhancing multi-phone pairing and voice recognition. The base audio system was decent, with a 12-speaker Fender audio system available on the Execline trim.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna boasted a nine-inch touchscreen standard across all grades, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It offered a range of connectivity features, including Safety Connect, Remote Connect, and Service Connect. The Sienna's audio systems ranged from a six-speaker stereo to a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers. A rear-seat entertainment system was available, featuring an 11.6-inch display. The driver benefited from a multi-information display and a digital rearview mirror on higher trims. Remote keyless entry and push-button start were standard, with the Smart Key System available on higher trims.

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 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 model year.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and pre-collision systems. The Sienna also featured the Star Safety System and blind spot monitoring. It was equipped with 10 airbags and LATCH connectors for child seats. The Sienna received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a Five-Star Overall Rating from NHTSA.