2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as a new entrant in the SUV market, was not constrained by a legacy of design expectations, allowing it to innovate while still aligning with the brand's sedan lineup. Its design was characterized by a long hood, short front overhang, and a distinctive grille with a diamond mesh and Quad Lamp LED headlights, establishing a signature Genesis look. The GV80's interior was sleek and uncluttered, featuring a 14.5-inch widescreen display and high-quality materials like real wood and leather, creating a luxurious atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received a styling refresh that included new bumpers, LED lights, and a grille shared with the Atlas Cross Sport. The Atlas had a more extroverted appearance compared to its predecessor, though some elements like the fake chrome exhaust tips were less appealing. The interior followed a minimalist approach, with a focus on functionality over luxury. While the Atlas offered ample third-row legroom, it compromised on second-row comfort, and the material quality was below average, with noticeable use of simulated materials.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft. The V6 models came with standard all-wheel drive, while the four-cylinder models had rear-wheel drive with optional AWD. The GV80 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and advanced suspension systems, providing a smooth and refined driving experience. Fuel economy for the 2.5T was 21 mpg city/25 mpg highway with RWD, while the 3.5T AWD achieved 18 mpg city/23 mpg highway.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas also offered two engines: a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four with 235 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.6-liter VR6 with 276 hp and 266 lb-ft. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with standard front-wheel drive and optional 4Motion AWD. The Atlas's driving experience was less refined, with rough shifts and poor ride quality. Fuel economy for the four-cylinder FWD model was 22 mpg combined, while the VR6 AWD achieved 18 mpg combined.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sophisticated interior with advanced technology and ergonomic design. The center console housed a rotary gear selector and a multimedia controller with dual control capability. The second row was spacious and comfortable, with available power seats and window shades. A third row was standard on certain models, increasing passenger capacity to seven.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas, designed as a family hauler, offered average passenger and cargo space, with 96.8 cubic feet behind the front seats and 20.6 cubic feet with all seats up. While the third row provided ample legroom, the second row was less comfortable. The Atlas featured a logical layout of controls, with up to five USB ports and an optional wireless charging pad. It also offered up to 17 cupholders, catering to family needs.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 boasted a sixth-generation Genesis UX infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD screen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It featured cloud connectivity, over-the-air updates, and a digital key function for Android users. The GV80 also offered Genesis Connected Services, a head-up display, and a Lexicon Quantum Logic Surround audio system with 21 speakers.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas included Bluetooth and smartphone compatibility, with a 6.5-inch or 8-inch infotainment screen depending on the trim. Higher trims offered Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit, replacing analog gauges with a digital display. The Atlas was set to receive the MIBIII infotainment system later in the year, enhancing voice recognition and navigation. A 12-speaker Fender audio system was available on higher trims, along with a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 had not yet been rated by IIHS or NHTSA, but Genesis aimed for top safety ratings. It came equipped with 10 airbags, a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, and adaptive cruise control with machine learning. The GV80 also featured Highway Driving Assist and Remote Smart Parking Assist.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received a "good" rating in IIHS crash tests, with mixed headlight ratings. The 2020 model received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. The Atlas included standard automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist available on higher trims. It was set to receive more advanced driver aids later in the year.