2022 Subaru Forester 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 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 Subaru Forester, particularly in its Wilderness trim, emphasized functionality and ruggedness. The Wilderness model featured a suspension lift, higher ride height, and extensive protective cladding, giving it a distinctive, albeit polarizing, appearance. Inside, the Forester focused on practicality with water-repellant StarTex simulated leather and all-weather floor mats. The interior combined hard plastics and soft surfaces, creating a cabin that felt well-constructed but somewhat dated. The 8-inch Starlink infotainment system was user-friendly, though the presence of three display screens was less than ideal. Overall, the Forester's design prioritized utility and durability over aesthetics.

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 driving experience with the base engine was underwhelming, with adequate acceleration but rough shifts. The Atlas's handling was truck-like, and the ride quality was poor, with occupants feeling every road imperfection. Despite having an Offroad mode and 20.3 centimetres of ground clearance, the Atlas was better suited for pavement due to its lack of a 4WD system with low range. The VR6 models had a towing capacity of 2,267 kilograms, while the four-cylinder models could tow up to 900 kilograms. Fuel efficiency was unimpressive, with the four-cylinder engine rated at 10.9 litres per 100 kilometres combined.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive, with the Wilderness model offering a 25% increase in initial torque supply. The Forester Wilderness doubled its towing capacity to 1,360 kilograms. Fuel consumption was rated at 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres combined. The Forester's engine was adequate near sea level but felt sluggish at higher altitudes. The CVT simulated the feel of an automatic transmission, and the SI-Drive system provided a more lively response. The dual-function X-Mode system improved off-road capability, and the re-tuned suspension enhanced ride and handling. The Forester excelled in various driving environments, with its long-travel suspension absorbing bumps and maintaining good road feel.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas was designed as a family hauler, offering average passenger and cargo space for its segment. It provided 2,741 litres of cargo space behind the front seats and 583 litres with all seats up. The Atlas offered 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 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 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality, with easy entry and exit due to tall seating hip points. The StarTex upholstery was water-resistant, and the Wilderness trim included all-weather floor mats and a rubber cargo mat. The Forester's roof rails were upgraded to accommodate a dynamic load of 100 kilograms and a static load of 362 kilograms. Comfort levels were high in both the front and back seats, with excellent visibility. The Forester offered decent storage space, with cargo capacity measuring 818 litres without the panoramic sunroof and 762 litres with it. Folding the rear seat down increased cargo space to 2,101 litres. The Forester's cargo area was usefully shaped, and new cargo hooks were added for 2022.

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 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 Subaru Forester included a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims featured an 8-inch screen with an available navigation system and Harman Kardon audio. The Forester Wilderness included a 180-degree forward-view camera. The test vehicle had both navigation and the Harman Kardon system, producing clear sound. The navigation system was helpful, though a breadcrumb function would have been useful. The voice recognition system was inconsistent in its effectiveness.

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. The Atlas came with standard automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist available on higher trims. The Execline trim was set to receive Travel Assist and Emergency Assist later in the model year.

The 2022 Subaru Forester debuted the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, offering improved accuracy and smoother operation. It included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centring assist. The Forester also featured a rear-seat reminder system, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Limited and Premier trims included DriverFocus, a facial recognition technology. The NHTSA awarded the Forester a 5-star overall crash-test rating, and it was expected to retain the 2021 model's "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.