2021 Subaru Ascent vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

When the 2021 Subaru Ascent was introduced, it filled a significant gap in Subaru's lineup, which had been missing a three-row SUV. The Ascent's design was reminiscent of Subaru's smaller models like the Forester and Outback, but scaled up to accommodate three rows. The interior followed a similar theme, with a dashboard design that could easily be mistaken for other Subaru models, likely a strategic move to create a sense of familiarity among Subaru enthusiasts. The Ascent was available in four trims: Standard, Premium, Limited, and Touring, each offering progressively more features and amenities.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas, having received numerous updates in 2021, carried over with minor modifications. The lineup was simplified to six trims, with the SEL Premium R-Line being the top-tier option. The Atlas featured a bold, boxy design with 21-inch wheels on the SEL Premium R-Line trim, giving it an upscale look. Inside, the Atlas offered a spacious and comfortable cabin, though some materials felt cheap for its price point. The interior design was simple yet premium, but the abundance of hard, shiny plastics detracted from the overall quality.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. The Ascent's ride focused on comfort, with responsive handling and the ability to absorb road bumps effectively. It had 8.7 inches of ground clearance, making it capable in snowy conditions and light off-roading. The Ascent could tow up to 5,000 pounds and came with standard Trailer Stability Assist.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options. The base engine was a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, making 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine required premium fuel for maximum output and had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. The more powerful option was a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, also paired with an eight-speed automatic. The V6 could tow up to 5,000 pounds but had a gritty feel and lower fuel efficiency. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an Active Control system for different terrains, but its ground clearance was modest at 7.1 to 7.5 inches.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent offered 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 47.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 86.5 cubic feet with all rear seats down. It could seat up to eight passengers, or seven with optional second-row captain's chairs. The first two rows were spacious, while the third row was better suited for children on longer trips. The Ascent featured 19 cupholders and numerous storage compartments.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas provided 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 55.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 96.8 cubic feet with all rear seats down. It could comfortably seat seven adults, with a low step-in height for easy access. The Atlas offered numerous storage areas, though many were unlined, causing items to slide around and create noise. Higher trims included features like tri-zone climate control, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent featured the StarLink infotainment system with logical menus and large icons. It came with a 6.5-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and multiple USB ports. Available tech included a WiFi hotspot and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came standard with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, featuring an 8-inch or 10.25-inch display. The base SE trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while higher trims included an 8-inch touchscreen with the MIB3 infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Fender premium sound system. The Atlas also offered Car-Net connected services with various subscription plans for additional features.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent was an IIHS 2021 Top Safety Pick+ due to its crash test results and comprehensive EyeSight driver-assistance suite, which included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. Optional safety features included reverse automatic emergency braking, rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a robust list of safety features, including automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and Travel Assist. The Atlas also featured brighter LED headlights and an adaptive front lighting system. However, it did not earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and received four-star ratings in frontal-impact tests from the NHTSA.