2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2021 Volvo XC60

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas underwent a styling refresh, featuring new front and rear bumpers, standard LED headlights and taillights, and a new grille design. These updates added 6 centimetres to its length, giving the Atlas a more extroverted appearance compared to its predecessor. 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, 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.

The 2021 Volvo XC60, positioned between the XC40 and XC90 in Volvo's lineup, was built on the SPA platform, shared with other 60-series and 90-series vehicles. Its design featured an elegant, tailored crossover look with short overhangs and crisp details. The front grille proudly displayed Volvo’s iron mark logo, and the headlights incorporated a distinctive Thor’s hammer LED design. Inside, the XC60 boasted a Scandinavian-inspired cabin with clean lines, authentic materials, and a serene atmosphere. The 9-inch portrait-oriented infotainment touchscreen was a standout feature, and the attention to detail in elements like the HVAC vents elevated the XC60 to near-luxury status.

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 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 truck-like handling. The Atlas had a towing capacity of 2,267 kilograms with the VR6 engine, but only 900 kilograms with the four-cylinder. Fuel efficiency was not impressive, with the four-cylinder rated at 10.9 L/100 km combined and the VR6 at 12.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine across its lineup, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The T5 model produced 250 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the T6 added a supercharger for 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 models, including the Polestar Engineered variant, were plug-in hybrids with a combined output of up to 415 hp and 472 lb-ft. The XC60 offered a smooth and secure driving experience, with excellent handling and a quiet cabin. Fuel consumption ranged from 11.1 L/100 km city to 9.3 L/100 km combined for the T8 PHEV, with the T8 capable of 4.0 Le/100 km in electric-only mode.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas was designed as a family hauler, offering three rows of seating and a total cargo space of 2,741 litres behind the front seats. It provided more third-row legroom than most competitors but sacrificed 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, up to five USB ports, and a wireless charging pad. It also boasted up to 17 cupholders. However, forward visibility was less than optimal, and while parking sensors were standard, advanced parking aids were available only on higher trims.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 excelled in comfort and functionality, with highly adjustable front seats and a heating system well-suited for winter conditions. The cabin offered smart storage solutions and intuitive controls, with secure storage in the second row. The XC60 provided 613 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 1,410 litres behind the first row. It had a towing capacity of 1,587 kilograms. The XC60's design and features made it a comfortable and practical choice for families.

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 had 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 year, with improved features. The base audio system was decent, with a 12-speaker Fender audio system available on the Execline trim.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 featured the Sensus infotainment system, with a tablet-style touchpad interface. It offered smartphone integration with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system on the test model was exceptional. The Sensus system had a learning curve but was intuitive once familiar. The portrait-oriented touchpad allowed for easy navigation of functions, enhancing the overall user experience.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top ratings in IIHS crash tests, except for a "marginal" rating for child-seat anchors and mixed headlight ratings. The 2020 model received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. 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 Volvo XC60 was awarded a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS and five-star ratings from NHTSA for the T5 AWD and T6 AWD models. It came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including collision avoidance, lane-keeping aid, and a whiplash protection system. Volvo's Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving system was available, integrating adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The XC60 was also governed to a top speed of 180 km/h for safety.