2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2021 Volvo XC40

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 updates added 6 centimetres to its length, giving the Atlas a more extroverted appearance compared to the previous year's model. The R-Line trim package further enhanced its sporty look with unique bumpers and side skirts. Despite these cosmetic changes, 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.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 boasted traditional SUV styling with a tall, flat roof and upright rear hatch, aligning with Volvo's current lineup through features like “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights. The XC40 Recharge variant stood out with a blanked-off grille, unique badging, and model-specific wheels. Built on Volvo’s Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform, the XC40 accommodated both gasoline and electric powertrains. Inside, the XC40 offered a minimalist design with high-quality materials, including real metal trim and a combination of Nappa leather and Nubuck textile upholstery. The interior design was coherent and premium, with a focus on comfort and functionality.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a standard 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-litre VR6 engine with 276 hp and 266 lb-ft. 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 and poor ride quality. The Atlas had a towing capacity of 2,267 kilograms with the VR6 engine, while the four-cylinder models were limited to 900 kilograms. Fuel efficiency was not impressive, 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 2021 Volvo XC40 featured a three-tiered powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge model at the top. The gasoline options included a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with the T4 producing 187 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, and the T5 offering 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. The Recharge model shared its powertrain with the Polestar 2, delivering 402 hp and 486 lb-ft through dual electric motors. The Recharge accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, while the T5 and T4 took 6.4 and 8.5 seconds, respectively. The XC40 emphasized comfort and quietness, with excellent ride quality even on rough roads. The Recharge model also offered one-pedal driving and a towing capacity of 900 kilograms.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas, designed as a family hauler, offered average passenger and cargo space for its segment, with 2,741 litres 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 driver-focused layout with controls within easy reach, up to five USB ports, and a wireless charging pad. It also offered up to 17 cupholders and a tall driving position, though forward visibility was limited. Parking sensors and advanced parking assist features were available on higher trims.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge had no difference in passenger or cargo space compared to gasoline models, but it was less spacious than competitors like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E. The XC40 offered clever storage solutions, such as a removable trash bin in the centre console and large door bins. The storage cubby ahead of the shifter was designed to hold a phone securely. A wireless charging pad was optional, and a single USB-C port was standard, though second-row occupants lacked charging options.

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, offering a 10.3-inch digital display. The Atlas was set to receive VW’s MIBIII infotainment system later in the year, with improved features. The base audio system was decent, with a 12-speaker Fender audio system available on the Execline trim.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge featured the Android Automotive OS infotainment system, with Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Bluetooth connectivity. The standard setup had a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The Recharge model offered OTA update capability, and it lacked a start button, allowing drivers to shift out of park with the key fob present.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received a top “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 year.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the highest “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA for gasoline models. The Recharge model was expected to perform well in crash tests due to its safety cage and redesigned front crash structure. Standard safety features included lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and more. The Recharge model featured Volvo’s latest sensor suite, allowing for future advancements in driver aids.