2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

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 changes 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 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 Toyota Sienna embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV styling cues. It featured a macho front end and cleverly re-engineered door hinges to conceal the slider channel, giving it a more assertive profile. The interior was designed to avoid the typical minivan feel, offering ample storage and comfortable seating across all rows. The Sienna's third-row bench could easily be stored away, and the second-row seats slid up to 63.5 centimetres for easy access. With a focus on practicality, the Sienna provided a spacious and flexible interior, making it a strong contender for families seeking a versatile vehicle.

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 4Motion system primarily operated in front-wheel drive to save fuel but could send power to the rear wheels when needed. Despite these features, the driving experience with the base engine was underwhelming, with rough shifts and poor ride quality. The Atlas had a towing capacity of up to 2,267 kilograms with the VR6 engine, but its fuel efficiency was unimpressive, with combined ratings of 10.9 litres per 100 kilometres for the four-cylinder and 12.9 litres for the VR6.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna, on the other hand, came exclusively with a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on most trims. The Sienna used an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth and efficient power delivery. It offered four selectable drive modes and boasted impressive fuel efficiency, with FWD models achieving 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres combined and AWD models slightly higher. The Sienna's handling was commendable for a minivan, thanks to its TNGA platform, providing a comfortable and stable ride.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas was designed as a family hauler, 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 tall driving position, but forward visibility was limited. It came with up to 17 cupholders and various tech features, including a wireless charging pad and multiple USB ports. However, its interior materials and design left much to be desired.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior space and versatility, capable of accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. It offered 949 litres of cargo space behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The Sienna's third-row bench easily stored away, and the second-row seats slid for added flexibility. Power-operated sliding doors and liftgate, along with foot-motion triggers, enhanced convenience. The Sienna also had a 1,585-kilogram towing capacity, making it a practical choice for families with diverse needs.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas featured Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility across all models. The base trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while higher trims received an 8-inch screen with satellite radio. Volkswagen's Digital Cockpit was available on select trims, offering a 10.3-inch digital display. The Atlas was set to receive the MIBIII infotainment system later in the model year, enhancing multi-phone pairing and voice recognition. However, the infotainment system's displays were plain and text-heavy, making them difficult to read at a glance.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna boasted a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. It included multiple USB ports and Bluetooth connectivity. While wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were absent, the Sienna offered telematics services, wireless phone charging, and a 1500-watt inverter for powering devices. Audio systems ranged from a six-speaker setup to a 12-speaker JBL system on higher trims. A rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display was available, along with a digital rearview mirror for enhanced visibility.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top "good" ratings in IIHS crash tests, except for a "marginal" rating for child-seat anchors and mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA awarded the 2020 model 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 Toyota Sienna earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane centring, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. The Sienna also included 10 airbags, multiple LATCH connectors, and a rear-seat reminder system. Tire-pressure monitoring and an inflator kit were standard, with an optional spare tire for added convenience.