2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2022 Toyota Venza

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 it shared with other VW models like the Jetta and Golf. The interior followed a minimalist design, 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 Venza featured a modern exterior design with excellent proportions, reminiscent of a Lexus. Its most striking design elements included a deeply scalloped body side and a prominent nose. The Venza rode on the TGNA-K platform, shared with several other Toyota and Lexus models, ensuring a proven and reliable foundation. Inside, the Venza offered a Lexus-like interior with high-quality materials and an elegant layout. The cabin was spacious, with supportive front seats and ample room for three adults in the rear. The available Star Gaze panoramic sunroof added to the sense of space and luxury.

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 every road imperfection felt in the cabin. Despite its off-road modes and ground clearance, the Atlas was best suited for pavement, lacking a 4WD system with low range.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine and three electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower. The Venza's hybrid system balanced electric and gas drive for optimal efficiency, with electric motors at the rear axle providing AWD. Drivers could choose from EV, Normal, Eco, and Sport modes. The Venza offered sprightly performance and agile handling, with a ride quality that matched its family hauler role. Regenerative braking helped recharge the battery, and the Venza's hybrid setup required no special attention, making it convenient for those without access to charging infrastructure.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas was designed as a family hauler, offering three rows of seating with a standard seven-seat configuration. It provided 2,741 litres of cargo space behind the front seats and 583 litres with all seats up. While it offered more third-row legroom than most competitors, second-row legroom was lacking. The second-row bench seat was uncomfortable, with thin cushions. The Atlas featured a driver-focused layout with easy-to-reach controls, up to five USB ports, and a wireless charging pad. It also boasted up to 17 cupholders, though forward visibility was less than optimal.

The 2022 Toyota Venza seated five in two rows, with good headroom and legroom in both. The second row offered 114.8 cm of hip room, accommodating three adults comfortably. The cabin felt roomy, especially with the available Star Gaze sunroof. The Venza featured numerous convenience features, including an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, electric parking brake, and sliding sun visors. It offered 816 litres of cargo space behind the second row and 1,560 litres with the second row folded. Toyota focused on creating a quiet cabin, adding sound-blocking materials throughout.

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 Toyota Venza featured a hybrid powertrain that required no charging infrastructure, making it convenient for those without access to home charging. The Venza's infotainment system included an eight-inch touchscreen, AM/FM/HD Radio, and SiriusXM satellite radio. It supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with Bluetooth connectivity. The XLE and Limited trims added a 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL audio system, and head-up display. Toyota Connected Services were included, offering Safety Connect, Service Connect, and Remote Connect. The Venza's hybrid setup was efficient, with a tank of gas yielding over 800 kilometres.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top "good" ratings in IIHS crash tests, with 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.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came with the Toyota Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. It featured eight airbags and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, which included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. XLE and Limited trims added parking assist with automated braking and a surround-view camera.