2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas underwent a styling refresh, featuring new front and rear bumpers, standard LED headlights and taillights, and a redesigned grille. These updates extended the Atlas by 2.4 inches, giving it a more extroverted appearance compared to the previous model. The R-Line trim added sportier bumpers and side skirts, while the minimalist interior design focused on functionality. However, the material quality, especially in the mid-level SE with Technology trim, was below average, with cheap plastics and faux wood and metal trim.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid maintained its sharp-edged, streamlined profile, which had become familiar over the years. The NX shared its platform with the older Toyota RAV4, making it a step behind in engineering. The F Sport Black Line model featured a larger mesh grille, dark-finish wheels, and a striking Grecian Water paint. Inside, the NX's design felt dated, with plastic switchgear and trim, but the F Sport package added some sporty touches like aluminum pedals and NuLuxe upholstery.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 235 horsepower and a 3.6-liter VR6 with 276 horsepower. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive standard and optional 4Motion all-wheel drive. The Atlas delivered adequate acceleration but suffered from rough shifts and poor ride quality. Its handling was truck-like, and despite off-road features, it was best suited for pavement. The VR6 model could tow up to 5,000 pounds, while the four-cylinder was limited to 2,000 pounds. Fuel economy was unimpressive, with the four-cylinder rated at 22 mpg combined and the VR6 at 19 mpg combined.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 194 horsepower. It came standard with all-wheel drive. The NX Hybrid prioritized fuel efficiency over performance, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds. The sport-tuned suspension improved handling, but the steering felt numb. Drive modes like Eco and Sport offered minimal impact on performance. The NX Hybrid's drivetrain struggled with transitions between electric and gasoline power, making it less responsive in traffic.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas provided ample passenger and cargo space, with 96.8 cubic feet behind the front seats and 20.6 cubic feet with all seats up. It offered more third-row legroom than most competitors but sacrificed second-row comfort. The interior layout was driver-focused, with easy-to-reach controls and up to five USB ports. The Atlas featured a tall driving position, but forward visibility was limited. Parking sensors and optional active park assist helped with maneuvering.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited front and rear headroom, with rear legroom being the worst in its class. The front seats were comfortable, with 10-way power adjustment and optional heated and ventilated seats. The sloping roofline and thick pillars hindered rear visibility, but large mirrors helped. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet with seats up and 53.7 cubic feet with seats folded. A power-folding second row and power liftgate were available but not standard.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas included Bluetooth and smartphone compatibility, with a 6.5-inch touchscreen on the base model and an 8-inch screen on higher trims. The Digital Cockpit was available, offering a 10.3-inch digital display. The Atlas was set to receive the MIBIII infotainment system later in the year, enhancing functionality. The base audio system was decent, with a 12-speaker Fender system available on higher trims. A 4G LTE WiFi hotspot was new for 2021.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, featuring an 8-inch display with an optional 10.3-inch screen. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The Remote Touch Interface touchpad was difficult to use while driving. Analog controls were provided for climate and audio functions. The base audio system was lackluster, with a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system available on higher trims.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top ratings in IIHS crash tests, except for a "marginal" rating for child-seat anchors and mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA gave 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 year.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating. The NX came standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver aids. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were newly standard for 2021, but a 360-degree camera system was missing.