2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2022 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 changes extended the vehicle's length by 2.4 inches, giving it a more extroverted appearance compared to its predecessor. The R-Line trim added sportier elements like unique bumpers and side skirts. Despite these updates, the Atlas maintained its MQB platform, which is shared with other VW models like the Jetta and Golf. The interior was minimalist, with a focus on functionality, though the material quality, especially in the mid-level SE with Technology trim, was considered below average. The Atlas offered a standard seven-seat configuration, with options for second-row captain’s chairs in higher trims.

In contrast, the 2022 Honda Odyssey was designed with family convenience in mind, featuring sliding side doors for easy access and a comfortable third-row seat. The Odyssey's design included kinked sliding doors and hockey-stick character lines, giving it a stylish edge. The Elite trim level boasted dark gray 19-inch aluminum wheels and quality leather upholstery. The interior was spacious, with a low console and ample storage. The Odyssey's Magic Slide second-row seats allowed for flexible seating arrangements, enhancing passenger comfort. The third-row seat was notably comfortable for adults, and the cargo space was generous, offering 32.8 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 144.9 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed.

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 standard and optional 4Motion all-wheel drive. The Atlas's driving experience was underwhelming, with rough shifts and poor ride quality, especially with the 20-inch wheels. The AWD system included various drive modes but lacked enhancements for on-road handling. The Atlas had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds with the VR6 engine, but its fuel economy was unimpressive, with the four-cylinder engine rated at 22 mpg combined and the VR6 at 19 mpg combined.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Odyssey was front-wheel drive only, lacking the AWD and hybrid options available in some competitors. It had an EPA fuel economy estimate of 22 mpg combined. The Odyssey was enjoyable to drive, with responsive handling and quick acceleration. However, its brakes were prone to heating up during downhill driving, leading to pedal vibration. Despite this, the Odyssey maintained composure on various road types, making it a pleasant vehicle for daily driving.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas offered average passenger and cargo space for its segment, with 96.8 cubic feet 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 second-row bench seat was uncomfortable, with thin cushions. The Atlas featured a driver-focused layout with easy-to-reach controls and up to five USB ports. It also had up to 17 cupholders and a tall driving position, though forward visibility was limited. Parking aids like ultrasonic sensors and active park assist were available on higher trims.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey excelled in interior space and comfort, with easy access due to its low step-in height. The Elite trim offered quality leather seats with power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The Odyssey's storage solutions were impressive, with numerous compartments and a center console tray. The Magic Slide second-row seats provided flexibility, and the third-row seat was comfortable for adults. The Odyssey offered 32.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 144.9 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed. This made it ideal for family trips and transporting large items.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas came with Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The base S trim had a 6.5-inch infotainment screen, while higher trims featured an 8-inch screen. The Digital Cockpit was available on upper trims, offering a 10.3-inch digital display. The Atlas was set to receive the MIBIII infotainment system later in the model year, enhancing features like voice recognition and navigation. 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 introduced for 2021.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey Elite was equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Navigation and HondaLink connected services were available on Touring trim and above. The Odyssey included CabinWatch and CabinTalk technologies, allowing the driver to monitor and communicate with rear passengers. The rear-seat entertainment system featured a 10.2-inch screen with media playback options, but it was considered outdated. The Elite trim added an 11-speaker premium audio system and a wireless charging pad. The infotainment system was user-friendly but lacked a tuning knob and required specific voice commands for navigation.

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 rated 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, including Travel Assist and Emergency Assist.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey came standard with Honda Sensing, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. It also featured automatic high-beam headlights and a rear-seat reminder system. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on the EX trim and above. Honda Sensing was noted for its lack of refinement, with occasional false warnings and abrupt responses. The Odyssey earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.