2021 Toyota Venza 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 look compared to the previous model. The R-Line trim package further enhanced its sporty appearance 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 Venza was noted for its Lexus-like appearance, with a sleek design reminiscent of the Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept. It was available in three trim levels—LE, XLE, and Limited—and offered a choice of seven paint colours. The Venza came well-equipped with standard features like LED headlights, dual chrome-tipped exhaust, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, it boasted a unique cabin design with premium appointments, including a deep centre console with various controls and a wireless charging pad. The Venza provided comfortable seating for five, with more headroom than the RAV4 and a spacious feel overall. Its cargo space, while less than some competitors, was still practical for daily use.

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 to save fuel but provided power to the rear wheels when needed. However, the driving experience with the base engine was underwhelming, with rough shifts and poor ride quality. The Atlas had a towing capacity of up to 2,267 kilograms with the VR6 engine, but its fuel efficiency was unimpressive, with ratings of 10.9 L/100 km combined for the four-cylinder and 12.9 L/100 km for the VR6.

The 2021 Toyota Venza featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motors, delivering a combined 219 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid system was paired with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT), providing smooth acceleration and a quiet ride at cruising speeds. The Venza excelled in fuel efficiency, achieving an estimated 5.9 L/100 km in the city, 6.4 on the highway, and 6.1 combined. Its handling was confident and typical of a Toyota, with a comfortable and composed ride. The Venza's hybrid powertrain was backed by a 10-year/240,000-kilometre hybrid battery warranty, adding to its appeal.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas was designed as a family hauler, offering three rows of seating and a total cargo space of 2,741 litres with the seats folded. 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 user-friendly layout with controls within easy reach and up to five USB ports. It also offered up to 17 cupholders, though forward visibility was less than optimal. Parking sensors and available active park assist helped with manoeuvring in tight spaces.

The 2021 Toyota Venza, known for its practicality, offered a unique cabin design with premium materials and a deep centre console. It provided comfortable seating for five, with more headroom than the RAV4 and a spacious feel. The Venza had 816 litres of cargo space, which was less than some competitors but sufficient for daily use. The rear seats featured quick-flip releases for easy cargo arrangement. The Venza's interior was elegant, with a focus on comfort and refinement, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a more upscale experience.

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 VW's new 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 Venza featured an 8-inch infotainment system on the LE trim, while the XLE and Limited trims had a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen. The Entune system, though improved, was not the best in the industry. The Venza included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, along with a six-speaker audio system. The XLE and Limited trims came with a nine-speaker JBL premium audio system. Toyota connected services, including Safety Connect and Remote Connect, were standard, providing additional convenience and safety features.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top ratings in IIHS crash tests, with a "marginal" rating for child-seat anchors and mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA gave 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 Venza came with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, including eight airbags, a rearview camera, and various driver-assist technologies. Standard features included pre-collision warning, lane-departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, highlighting its strong safety credentials.