2021 Lexus RX vs 2021 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received a styling refresh that included new front and rear bumpers, standard LED headlights and taillights, and a new grille. These changes added 2.4 inches to its length, giving it a more extroverted look compared to the 2020 model. The R-Line trim package added sportier-looking front and rear bumpers and side skirts. Despite these updates, the Atlas still rode on the same MQB platform as before, which is used by most current VW models. The interior of the Atlas took a minimalist approach, with a standard seating configuration of seven seats across three rows. However, the material quality in the mid-level SE with Technology trim was below average, with cheap-feeling plastics and simulated wood and metal trim.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus RX showcased a modern design aesthetic with a large grille, angular headlamps, and a floating roof. The RX was available in five variants, including the RX, RX F Sport, RXL, RX Hybrid, and RXL Hybrid. The RX F Sport was the most performance-focused version, while the RXL and RXL Hybrid had extended bodies and a third row of seating. The RX's interior was nicely appointed, even in the base model, with features like NuLuxe-trimmed seats and a leather-trimmed steering wheel. However, the center console design was criticized for being dated, with traditional illuminated buttons and a charcoal plastic look.

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 rated at 276 hp and 266 lb-ft. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with standard front-wheel drive (FWD) or optional 4Motion all-wheel drive (AWD). The base 2.0-liter engine with AWD provided an underwhelming driving experience, with adequate acceleration but rough shifts and poor ride quality. The VR6 models could tow up to 5,000 pounds, while the four-cylinder models were limited to 2,000 pounds. Fuel economy for the four-cylinder models was rated at 22 mpg combined with FWD, while the VR6 models achieved 19 mpg combined with FWD.

The 2021 Lexus RX, RXL, and RX F-Sport were powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX Hybrid and RXL Hybrid models combined a 3.5-liter V6 with three electric motors, producing 308 hp and managed by an electronic continuously variable transmission (e-CVT). The RX 350 with FWD was the most fuel-efficient, earning 23 mpg combined, while the RX Hybrid models achieved up to 31 mpg in the city. The RX F-Sport model added adaptive variable suspension and sportier features, making it a comfortable cruiser with a bit more pep. The RX could reach 60 mph in 7.7 to 7.9 seconds, depending on the drivetrain.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas was designed as a family hauler with three rows of seating. It offered 96.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats and 20.6 cubic feet with all seats up. The Atlas provided more third-row legroom than most competitors but had the worst second-row legroom in its class. The second-row bench seat was uncomfortable with thin, flat cushions. The Atlas featured a tall driving position, but forward visibility was less than optimal. It came with up to five USB ports, an optional wireless charging pad, and up to 17 cupholders.

The 2021 Lexus RX offered seating for five in the two-row RX 350, RX F-Sport, and RX 450h models, while the three-row RXL and RXL Hybrid could seat six or seven. The front and second-row seats provided ample space, but the third row was tight. The RX had 18.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The three-row versions offered 7.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 23 cubic feet behind the second row, and 58.5 cubic feet with the seats folded. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free liftgate available.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas came standard 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 trim levels offered Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit, a 10.3-inch reconfigurable digital display. The Atlas was set to receive the new MIBIII infotainment system later in the model year, which included multi-phone pairing and improved voice recognition. A 12-speaker Fender audio system was available on higher trims, and a built-in 4G LTE WiFi hotspot was new for 2021.

The 2021 Lexus RX came standard with dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, voice recognition, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, satellite radio, HD Radio, a WiFi hotspot, six USB ports, and a nine-speaker sound system. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, additional USB ports, a moonroof, wireless charging, navigation, and a 15-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound system. The RX's infotainment system was functional but not the easiest to use, and it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top "good" ratings in all IIHS crash tests, with a "marginal" rating for child-seat anchors and mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA gave the 2020 model 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, including Travel Assist and Emergency Assist.

The 2021 Lexus RX earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation with all Good marks on crashworthiness tests. The NHTSA rated the RX 350, RX 350L, and RX 450h with four out of five stars overall. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, 10 airbags, blind-spot monitoring, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which offered a suite of driver-assist technologies. The RX lacked the hands-off piloting-like software found in some competitors but provided a comprehensive set of safety features.