2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2021 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas underwent a styling refresh that included new front and rear bumpers, standard LED headlights and taillights, and a new grille design. These updates added 2.4 inches to the vehicle's length, giving it a more extroverted appearance compared to the previous model. The R-Line trim package further enhanced its sporty look with unique bumpers and side skirts. Despite these cosmetic changes, the Atlas retained its MQB platform, which is shared with other VW models like the Jetta and Golf. The interior of the Atlas was minimalist, with a focus on functionality, though the material quality, particularly in the mid-level SE with Technology trim, was considered below average.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey maintained a familiar look with minor tweaks, such as a new grille and front bumper, standard LED headlights, and a gloss black spear with a chrome insert at the rear. These changes modernized the Odyssey's appearance by reducing brightwork. The Odyssey was available in five trim levels, with prices ranging from $31,790 to $47,820. The Elite trim, which was tested, featured perforated leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and new wheel designs. The Odyssey's interior was praised for its comfort and practicality, with improvements in seating material and design, as well as new tri-color floor mats.

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 front-wheel drive as standard and optional 4Motion all-wheel drive. The Atlas's driving experience was underwhelming, with rough shifts and poor ride quality. The VR6 models had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, while the four-cylinder models were limited to 2,000 pounds. Fuel economy ratings were not impressive, with the four-cylinder engine achieving 22 mpg combined and the VR6 engine 19 mpg combined.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower, paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission. The Odyssey's drivetrain provided smooth and effortless power, with variable cylinder management for improved fuel efficiency. The EPA rated the Odyssey at 22 mpg combined, and it averaged 21.8 mpg during testing. The Odyssey lacked all-wheel drive, which was a disadvantage in snowy regions. However, it featured a new electronic brake booster for improved brake pedal feel and response. The Odyssey's ride and handling were enjoyable, with well-managed body motions and firm but comfortable suspension. The brakes, however, struggled under heavy use during testing.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas offered average passenger and cargo space for its segment, with 96.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats and 20.6 cubic feet with all seats up. It provided more third-row legroom than most competitors but sacrificed second-row legroom. The interior layout was driver-focused, with controls logically placed. The Atlas featured up to five USB ports and an optional wireless charging pad. It also had a tall driving position, but forward visibility was limited. Parking sensors and low-speed automatic braking were standard, with active park assist available on higher trims.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey excelled in interior space and storage, with a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a Magic Slide second-row seat layout. The Odyssey offered 32.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 88.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 144.9 cubic feet. The second-row seats were supportive but required removal for maximum cargo space. The Odyssey's interior was practical, with ample storage and a wireless smartphone charger on the Elite trim. The third-row seats accommodated both children and adults comfortably.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas came with Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The base S trim had a 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, while other models featured an 8-inch screen. Higher trims offered Volkswagen's Digital Cockpit, a 10.3-inch digital display. The Atlas was set to receive the MIBIII infotainment system later in the model year, with improved features. The SE with Technology trim had an 8-inch screen, but the display was plain and text-heavy. A 12-speaker Fender audio system was available on higher trims, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot was new for 2021.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey, starting with the EX trim, featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other connectivity options. The Touring trim added navigation, WiFi capability, and a CabinWatch interior camera. The Elite trim included an 11-speaker premium sound system and wireless smartphone charging. HondaLink subscription plans were available, offering various services. The Odyssey's technology was extensive, but the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice recognition were drawbacks. The Touring and Elite trims also included a rear-seat entertainment system with a 10.2-inch screen and streaming apps.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top "good" ratings in all IIHS crash tests, except for a "marginal" rating for child-seat anchors and mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA had not published ratings for the 2021 model, but the 2020 model received 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.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey improved its safety with standard Honda Sensing on all trims, including new features like pedestrian braking and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey was expected to earn a Top Safety Pick recommendation from the IIHS. The NHTSA assigned the Odyssey top five-star ratings, except for a four-star score in rollover resistance. The Odyssey's ADAS worked accurately but could be smoother in operation. Blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning were available on higher trims.