2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was available in S, SV, and SL trim levels, offering a straightforward choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The test vehicle featured the SL trim with front-drive, the SL Premium Package, and additional accessories, totaling $34,870. Despite its age, the Rogue maintained an attractive appearance, highlighted by its bold V-Motion grille and 19-inch aluminum wheels. However, the interior design showed its age with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. A thoughtful touch was the padded center console sides for driver comfort.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas underwent a styling refresh, featuring new front and rear bumpers, standard LED headlights and taillights, and a new grille design. These changes extended the Atlas by 2.4 inches, giving it a more extroverted look. The R-Line trim package added sportier elements, while the drag coefficient remained at 0.34. Despite cosmetic updates, the Atlas retained its MQB platform, shared with other VW models. Wheel sizes varied by trim, with options for 18-inch, 20-inch, and 21-inch wheels. The interior followed a minimalist approach, offering a standard seven-seat configuration with available second-row captain’s chairs. Material quality was below average, with cheap-feeling plastics and simulated trim.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured a single powertrain: a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Weighing up to 3,671 pounds, the Rogue's performance was adequate but not sporty, even with a Sport driving mode. The CVT managed power well, but acceleration was lacking, especially during freeway merging or passing. The EPA estimated 29 mpg combined for FWD models, but testing showed only 24.9 mpg. Ride and handling were improved by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the Rogue was not particularly fun to drive, with heavy steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a 235-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four and a 276-horsepower 3.6-liter VR6. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with FWD standard and optional 4Motion AWD. The base engine provided adequate acceleration, but the driving experience was underwhelming, with rough shifts and truck-like handling. Ride quality was poor, with noticeable impacts from road imperfections. AWD models featured Active Control with various drive modes, but these did not enhance on-road handling. The VR6 engine allowed for a 5,000-pound towing capacity, 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 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior posed challenges for taller drivers, with limited seat adjustability. The rear seats offered better comfort, with high cushions and excellent thigh support, enhanced by a panoramic sunroof. In-cabin storage was limited, but cargo space was generous, with 39 cubic feet available behind the rear seats. The Rogue also featured underfloor storage and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas provided average passenger and cargo space for a three-row crossover, with 96.8 cubic feet behind the front seats and 20.6 cubic feet with all seats up. The third row offered more legroom than competitors, but second-row legroom was lacking. The second-row bench was uncomfortable, with thin cushions. Controls were logically laid out, and the Atlas offered up to five USB ports and an optional wireless charging pad. The vehicle featured 17 cupholders and a tall driving position, though forward visibility was limited. Parking sensors and optional park assist features aided maneuverability.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Upgrades offered SiriusXM, navigation, a Bose sound system, and NissanConnect Services with features like remote access and emergency SOS calling. However, the 7-inch touchscreen was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice recognition.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas featured Bluetooth and smartphone compatibility, with a 6.5-inch screen on the base trim and an 8-inch screen on others. Higher trims offered a Digital Cockpit with a 10.3-inch display. The MIBIII infotainment system, introduced later in the model year, improved voice recognition and navigation. The base audio system was decent, with a 12-speaker Fender system available on higher trims. A 4G LTE WiFi hotspot supported up to four devices, with service provided by Verizon.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue included standard Safety Shield 360, with features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional options included a surround-view camera and ProPilot Assist. However, the Rogue's safety ratings were not stellar, with a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA and issues with IIHS ratings.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received "good" ratings in IIHS crash tests, with mixed headlight ratings. The 2020 model received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. 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.