2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2020 Lexus GX

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite its age, continued to carry the rugged charm of its predecessors. Introduced in 2002 and redesigned in 2010, the GX received some design tweaks over the years, including the hourglass grille that became a signature of the Lexus lineup. While this grille was polarizing on other models, it seemed to fit the GX better. The vehicle's decade-old design was evident, but its shared platform with the Toyota 4Runner ensured it remained a capable and rugged SUV, prioritizing functionality over modern aesthetics.

Inside, the GX's cabin was a throwback to the early 2010s, with a large, chunky center console and big buttons. This design might have seemed outdated for a luxury SUV, but it worked for the GX's rugged persona. The interior featured practical elements like operable dials and knobs, which were once marketed as usable even with work gloves. The GX was available in three trims: 460, 460 Premium, and 460 Luxury, each offering a range of features from leather upholstery to advanced navigation systems.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received a styling refresh, including new front and rear bumpers, standard LED headlights and taillights, and a new grille shared with the Atlas Cross Sport. These changes added 2.4 inches to the vehicle's length, giving it a more extroverted look compared to the 2020 model. The R-Line trim package added sportier bumpers and side skirts, although the fake chrome exhaust tips were a bit cheesy. Despite these cosmetic changes, the Atlas still rode on the same MQB platform, which was used across many VW models.

The Atlas' interior took a minimalist approach, with a focus on functionality. The standard seating configuration included seven seats across three rows, with options for second-row captain’s chairs. While the overall design was pleasing, the material quality in the mid-level SE with Technology trim was below average, with cheap-feeling plastics and simulated wood and metal trim. The Atlas offered a range of wheel sizes, from 18-inch alloys on the base trims to 21-inch wheels on the R-Line package, and roof rails were standard across all models.

The 2020 Lexus GX 460 was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and standard 4-wheel drive (4WD). While these specs might not impress compared to modern V6 or turbocharged engines, the V8 provided a distinctive swell of power in real-world driving. The GX's steering was light yet direct, and the self-leveling air suspension offered a smooth and composed ride. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, with various 4WD modes and a towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with an average of 16.3 mpg observed during testing.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-liter VR6 engine with 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with standard front-wheel drive (FWD) and optional 4Motion all-wheel drive (AWD). The base 2.0-liter engine provided adequate acceleration but lacked refinement, while the VR6 offered better performance. The Atlas' ride quality was poor, with every pavement imperfection felt in the cabin. AWD models featured an Active Control system with different drive modes, but the Atlas was best suited for on-road driving. The VR6 models had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, while the four-cylinder models were limited to 2,000 pounds. Fuel economy for the Atlas was also unimpressive, with the 2.0-liter engine achieving 22 mpg combined with FWD.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered second-row captain's chairs on the Premium and Luxury trims, with power-folding third-row seats standard on the Luxury trim. The captain's chairs provided easy access to the third row and a natural barrier between passengers. However, the GX's cargo space was limited, with only 64.7 cubic feet available with all rear seats folded. The side-opening rear hatch was unique but not particularly advantageous, although the separately opening rear window was a useful feature.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas was designed as a family hauler, offering 96.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats and 20.6 cubic feet with all seats up. The Atlas provided more third-row legroom than most competitors, but at the expense of second-row legroom. The second-row bench seat was uncomfortable, with thin, flat cushions. However, folding and raising the seats was straightforward, and third-row access was easy thanks to the sliding second-row bench. The Atlas featured a driver-focused layout, with controls placed within easy reach. It also offered up to five USB ports and an optional wireless charging pad, along with up to 17 cupholders.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age, with a true touchscreen interface flanked by large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls. While it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the simplicity of the system was a welcome change from more complex modern setups.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas came standard with Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The base S trim featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while higher trims got an 8-inch screen. The Digital Cockpit, available on higher trims, replaced analog gauges with a 10.3-inch digital display. The Atlas was set to receive VW's new MIBIII infotainment system later in the model year, offering multi-phone pairing, improved voice recognition, and a redesigned navigation system. The base six-speaker audio system was decent, with a 12-speaker Fender audio system available on higher trims. The Atlas also featured a built-in 4G LTE WiFi hotspot.

The 2020 Lexus GX came standard with the Lexus Safety System+, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera were also available. The GX offered great visibility, with large windows and mirrors enhancing safety.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top ratings in all 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.