2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2022 Ford Explorer

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, which added 6 centimetres to its length. These changes gave the Atlas a more extroverted appearance compared to its predecessor, although some elements like the fake chrome exhaust tips were considered less tasteful. 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 design, offering a standard seven-seat configuration with options for captain’s chairs in higher trims. However, the material quality, particularly in mid-level trims, was criticized for its use of cheap plastics and faux wood and metal trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Explorer offered a more athletic and modern design, thanks to its rear-drive platform that allowed for a long hood and a rakish roofline. The introduction of the ST-Line trim added a sporty flair to the lineup. The Explorer's cabin, especially in higher trims, combined quality materials with some less impressive elements, but overall, it felt worthy of its price. The Explorer's design included a "floating roof" effect, achieved by blacking out most roof pillars, which was a popular feature from previous models. The interior was equipped with a range of comfort features, including heated and ventilated seats, and a power-adjustable heated steering wheel, making it suitable for long-distance travel.

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 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Motion all-wheel drive. The Atlas's driving experience was underwhelming, with adequate acceleration but rough shifts and poor ride quality. The suspension tuning was criticized for being too truck-like, and the vehicle's off-road capabilities were limited despite having an Offroad mode and 20.3 centimetres of ground clearance. Towing capacity varied between 900 kilograms for the four-cylinder engine and 2,267 kilograms for the VR6, with fuel efficiency ratings of 10.9 L/100 km and 12.9 L/100 km combined, respectively.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains: a 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.3-litre V6 engine producing 318 horsepower and 322 pound-feet of torque, and a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine generating 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. The Explorer's towing capacity ranged from 2,268 kilograms for the hybrid to 2,540 kilograms for the twin-turbo V6. Fuel consumption varied from 9.6 L/100 km for the hybrid to 11.8 L/100 km for the twin-turbo V6. The Explorer's ride was robust and capable off-road, with a Trail setting and up to 22.1 centimetres of ground clearance in the Timberline model. The Explorer was praised for its athletic handling and engaging driving experience, particularly in the sport-tuned ST model.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas was designed as a family hauler with three rows of seating, offering 2,741 litres of cargo space behind the front seats and 583 litres with all seats up. While it provided more third-row legroom than most competitors, it sacrificed second-row legroom, which was the worst in its class. The second-row bench seat was uncomfortable, with thin cushions. The Atlas featured a driver-focused interior with logically laid-out controls and up to five USB ports. It also offered up to 17 cupholders and a wireless charging pad. However, forward visibility was less than optimal, and parking assistance features were available on higher trims.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided ample comfort for families, with the option of a second-row bench seat for occasional five-passenger capacity. The third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited legroom and accessibility. Higher trims offered features like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated seats, and a power-adjustable heated steering wheel. The Explorer's cabin lacked practical storage solutions, but it included built-in cupholders and a hands-free power liftgate. Cargo space measured 528 litres behind the third row, 1,264 litres with the third row folded, and 2,132 litres with both rear rows down.

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, which would include multi-phone pairing and improved voice recognition. The base audio system was decent, with a 12-speaker Fender audio system available on the Execline trim.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system: an 8-inch touchscreen and a 10.1-inch portrait-style screen. The system included FordPass Connect services, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. Higher trims featured wireless smartphone charging, a surround-view camera system, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. The Explorer's Sync 3 system was outdated compared to Ford's newer Sync 4 technology, with limitations in voice recognition and feature operation.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top "good" ratings in all IIHS crash tests, except for 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 year.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. The NHTSA had not published complete ratings for the 2022 model, but the previous year received five-star ratings except for rollover resistance. The Explorer came with Ford Co-Pilot360, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assist, and evasive steering assist. The Explorer also featured post-collision braking and MyKey programmable functions.