2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas underwent a styling refresh, featuring new front and rear bumpers, standard LED headlights and taillights, and a new grille design shared with the Atlas Cross Sport model. These updates added 6 centimetres to its length, giving the Atlas a more extroverted appearance compared to the previous year's model. The R-Line trim package further enhanced its sporty look with unique bumpers and side skirts. Despite these cosmetic changes, the Atlas retained its MQB platform, which is shared with other VW models like the Jetta and Golf. The interior maintained a minimalist design, 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 Volkswagen ID.4 was designed as an electric vehicle from the ground up, showcasing a distinctive look that set it apart from VW's gasoline models. It featured a streamlined profile with wheels pushed to the corners, giving it a unique stance. Built on VW’s MEB platform, the ID.4 prioritized cabin space over a "frunk," resulting in a spacious interior. The design combined VW’s minimalism with a tech-focused aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic elements. The ID.4's interior was comfortable, with standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, although the driver's seat lacked thigh support. Forward visibility was good, but rearward visibility was hindered by thick rear pillars.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a 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 lb-ft 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 every road imperfection felt in the cabin. The Atlas had a towing capacity of up to 2,267 kilograms with the VR6 engine, but fuel efficiency was unimpressive, with the four-cylinder model rated at 10.9 litres per 100 kilometres combined.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was available in two powertrain configurations. The base rear-wheel drive version featured a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack. An all-wheel-drive version added a second motor for a total of 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The ID.4 offered a balanced handling experience, with a smooth ride over bumps and potholes. The electric motor provided ample power, and the instantaneous torque made acceleration enjoyable. However, the ID.4 was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling. Unlike many EVs, it did not offer aggressive regenerative braking, opting for a more traditional driving experience.

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 driver-focused layout, with controls within easy reach and up to five USB ports available. It also offered up to 17 cupholders, although forward visibility was less than optimal. Parking sensors and low-speed automatic braking were standard, with active park assist available on higher trims.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more front and rear headroom than competitor EVs, although legroom was average. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,818 litres with them folded. The ID.4 lacked a "frunk," but the interior felt spacious, with good forward visibility. The dashboard featured a twist-grip gear selector, freeing up space on the centre console, although storage was limited. The ID.4 included standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, which proved effective in cold conditions. The seats were comfortable, but the driver's seat lacked thigh support.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas came with Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The base model featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while higher trims received 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 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 Volkswagen ID.4 featured a standard 10-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 12-inch screen optional. A 5.3-inch display served as the instrument cluster, and haptic touchpads replaced most switchgear. While the setup looked modern, it was difficult to use due to the lack of tactile feedback. The ID.4 included a natural-language voice-control system and the ID.Light feature, which communicated information to the driver through a light strip. The touchscreen was well-positioned, with smart graphics and easy-to-navigate menus.

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 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 Volkswagen ID.4 was rated as a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, with a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA for RWD versions. It offered a variety of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The ID.4 also featured Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, providing automated lane centring and the ability to stop the car if the driver is incapacitated. Travel Assist performed well, smoothly following curves and responding to acceleration and deceleration.