2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2022 Acura MDX

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 2022 Acura MDX was built on a new dedicated platform, resulting in a longer wheelbase, wider body, and improved proportions. The exterior featured standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels, giving it a sportier and more modern look. Inside, the MDX boasted a refined cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and genuine leather. The dashboard design emphasized cabin width, and the controls, though quirky, were intuitive. The MDX offered a comfortable front row with a wide range of adjustments and a beefy steering wheel with integrated controls. The overall quality and craftsmanship of the MDX were impressive, befitting its 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 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 noticeable impacts from road imperfections. 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 unimpressive, 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 2022 Acura MDX featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission. The Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhanced cornering feel and control with torque vectoring capabilities. The MDX's suspension was upgraded to a double-wishbone setup in the front and revised multi-link suspension in the rear, improving ride quality and handling. The overall stiffness and rigidity of the MDX were significantly improved, resulting in a solid ride feel. The 10-speed transmission worked seamlessly with the engine, offering smooth shifts and responsive performance. The MDX also featured an Integrated Dynamics System with five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas offered average passenger and cargo space for its segment, with 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 sacrificed second-row legroom. The second-row bench seat was uncomfortable, with thin cushions. The Atlas featured a straightforward folding mechanism for the second and third rows, and access to the third row was relatively easy. The interior controls were logically laid out, and the Atlas offered up to five USB ports and a wireless charging pad. It also had up to 17 cupholders, though forward visibility was less than optimal.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled in versatility, with comfortable seating for the first two rows and a removable centre section in the second row. The second row could slide and recline, providing flexibility for legroom. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers, but the MDX offered USB connections in all three rows. Cargo space ranged from 461 to 512 litres behind the third row, with additional underfloor storage. Folding the third and second rows expanded the cargo capacity significantly. The MDX featured a power tailgate with convenient features like "Walk Away Close" and Hands-Free Access. Interior lighting was customizable, with 27 themes to choose from.

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 the MIBIII infotainment system later in the model year, offering improved features like multi-phone pairing and enhanced voice recognition. The base audio system was decent, with a 12-speaker Fender audio system available on the Execline trim.

The 2022 Acura MDX offered advanced technology, including the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification on higher trims. The base MDX had a Premium Audio system with nine speakers, while the Tech grade featured an ELS Studio system with 12 speakers. Navigation was standard on Tech and above trims, and all MDX models had a 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel. Amazon Alexa was built-in, allowing for home-to-car functionality. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Qi-compatible wireless charging. The MDX also featured a CabinTalk system, a head-up display on the Platinum Elite grade, and a WiFi hotspot.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received a "good" rating in all 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, including Travel Assist and Emergency Assist.

The 2022 Acura MDX was rated as a "Top Safety Pick +" by the IIHS, receiving top marks in every category. The NHTSA had not yet rated the 2022 model, but Acura aimed for even better ratings than the previous model. The MDX featured a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. The front end was redesigned for pedestrian safety, with features like a low-speed braking control system and collision mitigation throttle control. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features was standard, including collision mitigation emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more.