2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine the minivan's aesthetic appeal, traditionally not known for its style. Toyota's designers gave the Sienna a more SUV-like appearance, with a wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays that integrated seamlessly with the Toyota logo. The side profile featured an assertive stance, with re-engineered sliding side doors that boasted a sculpted look, enhancing the vehicle's overall design. Alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches added to its visual appeal, while the rear maintained a wide and low look, typical of Toyota's high-quality fit and finish. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines, offering a comfortable seating position and a simple, uncluttered dashboard. The center console was thoughtfully designed with ample storage and smart features like a tray for a handbag. The second and third rows provided comfort for adults, with the second row offering flexibility for maximum utility.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried over many updates from the previous year, with minor modifications and a simplified lineup. The SEL Premium R-Line trim featured R-Line design elements, including 21-inch wheels that complemented the SUV's bold styling. The Atlas's interior was praised for its simplicity and premium flair, though some materials were criticized for their low-cost feel. The spacious interior comfortably seated seven adults, with a low step-in height for easy access. The Atlas offered numerous storage areas, though many were unlined, leading to potential noise from items sliding around. Cargo space was exceptional, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96.8 cubic feet with the second row folded down. The Atlas's design and functionality made it a strong contender in its class, despite some material quality concerns.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first foray into hybrid minivans, featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, producing a combined 243 horsepower. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available across all trims. The Sienna utilized an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which, while efficient, was noted for its less responsive throttle. The Sienna offered four drive modes: Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport, with handling improvements thanks to new suspension systems. The Sienna Hybrid boasted impressive fuel economy, with FWD models achieving 36 mpg combined and AWD models slightly lower at 35 mpg combined.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a 3.6-liter V6. The turbo-four produced 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, requiring premium fuel for optimal performance, with a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. The V6, standard on higher trims, delivered 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The Atlas featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered both FWD and AWD options. Fuel economy for the V6 was rated at 19-20 mpg combined. The Atlas provided various driving modes and an AWD system with Active Control calibrations. Despite its size, the Atlas was easy to maneuver, though its ride quality varied depending on road conditions and wheel size.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and functionality, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that folded into the floor. The second row slid up to 25 inches, facilitating access to the third row. The cabin featured ample storage, with 16 cupholders and bottle holders in all four side doors. The Sienna's cargo capacity was impressive, accommodating a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Cargo space measured 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 101.0 cubic feet with the first row. The Sienna's hybrid battery was cleverly positioned under the front seats, preserving cargo space. Power-operated sliding doors and tailgate added to its family-friendly appeal.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a spacious and comfortable interior, seating seven adults with ease. The Atlas featured V-Tex leatherette seating, heated front seats, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat as standard. Higher trims added features like tri-zone climate control, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof. Genuine leather upholstery and heated second-row seats were available on premium trims. The Atlas provided exceptional cargo space, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96.8 cubic feet with the second row folded. The power tailgate and low step-in height enhanced its practicality, though unlined storage areas could lead to unwanted noise.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was equipped with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. It included a year's trial of Safety Connect and Remote Connect, a ten-year trial of Service Connect, and a three-month trial of AT&T WiFi Connect. Bluetooth and USB ports were standard, with Qi-compatible charging available on higher trims. Audio systems ranged from a six-speaker stereo to a 12-speaker JBL package with Dynamic Navigation. A rear-seat entertainment system was optional, featuring an 11.6-inch display. The driver benefited from a multi-information display and an optional digital rearview mirror.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas featured the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit as standard, with an 8-inch display on lower trims and a 10.25-inch display on higher trims. The Atlas SE had a 6.5-inch touchscreen with basic infotainment features, while other trims offered the MIB3 system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM 360L. Car-Net connected services were available, offering remote access, safety features, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Atlas included multiple USB ports and a navigation system on higher trims. The user experience was mixed, with some challenges in using the infotainment system and voice commands.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, pre-collision system, lane-departure alert, automatic high beams, and road sign assist. The Star Safety System included stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and more. The Sienna had 10 airbags and LATCH connectors for child seats. A rear-seat reminder system and tire pressure monitoring were standard. Crash-test ratings for 2021 were not available, but the 2020 model received good ratings from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and the full IQ Drive safety package with lane-keeping assistance and emergency assist. The Atlas also featured brighter LED headlights and a surround-view camera system. Some driver assistance features had issues, such as false obstacle detection and lane assist misinterpretations. The Atlas received decent crash-test ratings but did not earn a Top Safety Pick from IIHS.