2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2020 Acura MDX

The 2020 Acura MDX boasted a compelling design that, while not groundbreaking, was both appealing and unassuming. It didn't aim to stand out aggressively in a crowded parking lot, nor did it intend to make a visual statement worthy of a photoshoot at a luxury club. The MDX's aesthetic aimed for a fine balance where it effortlessly blended into its surroundings without alienating its driver with ostentatious flair.

One of the notable visual features of the MDX was its Jewel Eye LED headlights. These innovative headlamps consisted of five LED elements per side, designed in a horizontal array within the housing alongside the running lamps and turn signals. The headlights were part of an expressive front fascia highlighted by a trapezoidal grille bearing the iconic Acura logo.

As a three-row SUV, the MDX was scenically sleek and low-slung. It managed this aesthetic without compromising its functional aspects. The body featured chiseled details and a fast roofline, and Acura's exquisite paint and chrome work were evident throughout its exterior.

The interior of the MDX continued this theme of understated sophistication. It focused on modernity and simplicity, eschewing excessive padding and stitching found in many luxury SUVs. The center stack was a notable interior highlight. It featured twin infotainment screens - an 8-inch LED screen for navigation atop an On Demand Multi-Use Display (ODMD) touchscreen, accompanied by three rows of buttons and a central command wheel. The craftsmanship was impeccable, with high-quality materials and a solid fit and finish, resulting in a luxurious yet durable feel. Knobs and switches operated with a satisfying precision.

In 2021, the Volkswagen Atlas received a noticeable styling update, which included new front and rear bumpers, standard LED headlights and taillights with innovative designs, and a freshly designed grille shared with the two-row Atlas Cross Sport model. These changes extended the length of the vehicle by 2.4 inches.

The 2021 Atlas adopted a more outgoing look compared to its 2020 predecessor. While the inclusion of fake chrome exhaust tips was somewhat tacky, the overall appearance was more extroverted. The R-Line trim added sportier elements such as redesigned bumpers and side skirts. The Atlas had a drag coefficient of 0.34, which was not particularly impressive for an SUV but acceptable given its boxy, elevated design.

Despite cosmetic changes, the 2021 Atlas continued to ride on the same MQB platform used by numerous VW models, such as the Jetta and Golf, proving the platform's versatility.

The interior followed a minimalist approach as seen in other recent VW models. Decorations were kept minimal, and controls were logically arrayed. The base S trim featured a standard second-row bench seat, whereas higher trims offered second-row captain’s chairs. However, material quality left much to be desired in mid-level trims like the SE with Technology, where plastics felt rather cheap, and faux wood and metal trim were unconvincing.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered two powertrains. The standard option was a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. For those craving more power and economy, the MDX Sport Hybrid combined a 3.0-liter V6 engine with three electric motors to produce a combined 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque, employing a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

Driving the MDX equipped with Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) was a pleasure. The vehicle presented strong straight-line performance with lively acceleration. The automatic transmission executed shifts seamlessly whether in Comfort or Sport mode, though paddle shifters were available for manual override.

Its nimbleness in tackles and curves was impressive, particularly with SH-AWD's torque-vectoring technology, which efficiently managed power distribution, especially during cornering. This resulted in enhanced handling and a more engaging driving experience. The four-wheel independent suspension further contributed to its comfort by effectively absorbing road imperfections, making the MDX suitable for lengthy drives.

Volkswagen offered two engine choices for the 2021 Atlas. The standard engine was a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque with premium fuel. Higher trims like SE with Technology featured a 3.6-liter VR6 engine, outputting 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

However, the driving experience with the base 2.0-liter engine and all-wheel drive was somewhat disappointing. Acceleration was adequate, but the transmission performed unevenly with rough shifts from a standstill. Handling belied its truck-like roots, despite the multilink independent rear suspension, resulting in a less than enjoyable driving experience. The ride quality was harsh, often jolting occupants with every road blemish, partially attributed to the 20-inch wheels.

The Atlas's 4Motion all-wheel drive system preferred front-wheel drive under low load to save fuel, switching power to the rear as needed. AWD versions included an Active Control feature with multiple drive modes, yet these did not improve on-road handling significantly. Despite its off-road modes and 8 inches of ground clearance, the Atlas was better suited to pavement, lacking true off-road capability and adequate forward visibility for trail driving.

Fuel efficiency figures were unremarkable, with the base engine averaging 22 mpg combined for front-wheel drive and 21 mpg with all-wheel drive. VR6 models averaged 19 mpg combined in front-wheel drive and 18 mpg with all-wheel drive.

The MDX embraced functionality, much like a well-designed minivan. It featured sliding and reclining second-row seats for easy access to the third row, and the accommodation across all three rows offered decent headroom. Cargo capabilities included 15.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 43.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a substantial 90.9 cubic feet with both the second and third rows down. Additional storage included a rear cargo cubby hole, underfloor storage, and various pockets and bins throughout the cabin.

An upscale touch was provided by the tri-zone climate control system, ensuring comfort for all passengers. For families needing near-minivan utility without forsaking stylish SUV aesthetics, the MDX offered an attractive option.

In cargo and passenger space metrics, the Atlas was comparable to its rivals, providing 96.8 cubic feet behind the front seats and 20.6 cubic feet with all seats up. While its third-row legroom was commendable, it sacrificed second-row legroom, which was less roomy among competitors. The second-row bench also lacked comfort due to its thin cushions.

The interior design offered logical control placement, with the driver able to reach all necessary functions easily. Tech conveniences included up to five USB ports and a wireless charging pad. The Atlas also featured up to 17 cup holders, positioning it strongly in the family utility game.

However, forward visibility was less than ideal due to the high, long hood. Standard ultrasonic parking sensors and optional low-speed automatic braking and active park assist provided some mitigation in tight spots.

Acura made the MDX technologically intuitive by bundling features into packages. Even the base model came well-equipped with essentials like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and multiple USB ports. The Technology Package ($5,000) added navigation, rain-sensing wipers, and enhanced audio, while the Advance Package ($6,750) included a surround-view camera system, heated seats, and more.

Entertainment options were bolstered with the additional Entertainment Package, offering DVD rear entertainment systems and additional speakers, especially in models featuring the visually impressive 16.2-inch Ultra-Wide Full VGA screen.

The Atlas, meanwhile, incorporated Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto across its range. Most trims upgraded the base 6.5-inch screen to an 8-inch version, with higher trims offering the Digital Cockpit, which replaced analog gauges with a 10.3-inch digital display. New MIBIII infotainment system would become available later in the model year, promising better functionality and navigation.

Audio options started with a decent six-speaker system, upgradeable to a 12-speaker Fender system on higher trims. Introducing a built-in 4G LTE WiFi hotspot was another technological step forward, especially useful for families on the go.

Safety-wise, the MDX shone with AcuraWatch, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring, while the Advance Package introduced Head-Up Warning. The sophisticated ACE Body Structure provided enhanced crash protection, earning the MDX top safety ratings from both IIHS and NHTSA.

The Atlas achieved “good” ratings from IIHS in crash tests but received lower ratings for child-seat anchors and headlights, though higher trims offered better headlight ratings. NHTSA awarded the Atlas a five-star overall safety rating for the 2020 model, expected to carry over to 2021.

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 advanced driver aids later in 2021, such as Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, enhancing its safety profile further.