2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received a notable styling refresh compared to its 2020 version. This change included new front and rear bumpers, standard LED headlights and taillights with redesigned configurations, and a grille shared with the two-row Atlas Cross Sport model. These updates made the Atlas grow by 2.4 inches in length compared to its previous model. The overall look of the Atlas became more extroverted with these changes, although some felt that the fake chrome exhaust tips were a bit over the top. An optional R-Line trim added sportier front and rear bumpers and side skirts. However, the vehicle still used the MQB platform.

Standard 18-inch alloy wheels were available on the S and SE trims, while the SE with Technology and higher models received 20-inch wheels. The R-Line package on the SEL or SEL Premium trims featured 21-inch wheels. Roof rails were standard across all trims, with a panoramic sunroof as an option on the SE with Technology model and standard on the SEL and SEL Premium.

Inside, the Atlas embodied a minimalist design philosophy, eschewing excessive decorative trim. Controls were sensibly arranged, centering around a seven-seat configuration with a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench and a 50/50 split-folding third-row bench. Captain's chairs were an option on the SE with Technology trim and above. The base S trim came with cloth seats, whereas the SE and SEL models featured simulated leather, and real leather was reserved for the SEL Premium model.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue carried forward the significant redesign it underwent in the previous year, evolving into a more grownup appearance compared to its earlier iterations. Its design shared several features with other recent Nissan vehicles, such as the V-motion grille and multi-level LED headlights. The SL and Platinum trims also featured LED fog lamps. Among the sophisticated design elements were active grille shutters, underbody covers, and an "air curtain" to improve airflow. The illusion of a floating roof was achieved through dark supporting pillars, and a slightly bulging liftgate completed the look.

Inside, the Rogue showcased a stylish, layered dashboard. Different trim levels had contrasting colors and various surface textures. The highlight of the interior was the center console, which was more spacious thanks to an electronic gear selector that did not need a mechanical linkage. This setup allowed for additional storage space under the console. The console also featured two large cupholders, a wireless charging pad, and a substantial storage cubby beneath the center armrest. The infotainment display was strategically placed for optimal driver visibility, and higher trims included a sophisticated digital instrument panel.

For the 2021 Atlas, Volkswagen offered two engine options. The standard engine was a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four from the EA888 family, producing 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. A 3.6-liter VR6 engine, available in higher trims like SE with Technology and above, delivered 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Both engines operated with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering front-wheel drive (FWD) as standard and an optional 4Motion all-wheel drive (AWD) system.

With the base 2.0-liter engine and AWD, the Atlas provided a lackluster driving experience. Acceleration was merely adequate, and the automatic transmission, though quick to shift, offered somewhat rough transitions. The truck-like handling and poor ride quality left much to be desired. Despite its multilink independent rear suspension, every road imperfection was glaringly felt within the cabin.

The higher-powered VR6 models had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, contrasting with the 2,000-pound towing capacity of the four-cylinder models. Fuel economy for the four-cylinder models ranged from 22 mpg combined with FWD to 21 mpg combined with AWD, while the VR6 models achieved between 18 mpg and 19 mpg combined, depending on the drivetrain.

The 2022 Rogue experienced a significant performance boost thanks to a new 1.5-liter VC-Turbo engine. This innovative engine employed Variable Compression technology, allowing it to dynamically adjust the size of the combustion chamber for optimal performance. The new engine produced 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, representing an 11 percent increase in horsepower and a 24 percent boost in torque compared to the previous 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine.

Rogue's new CVT transmission had wider gear ratios, enhancing its off-the-line and passing performance. The ride quality was smooth and controlled, with minimal body roll, and the electric power-assisted steering offered good feedback. The Rogue's impressive fuel economy stood out, with EPA estimates of 30 mpg city, 37 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined on regular unleaded fuel.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas aimed to cater to families seeking a minivan alternative through its three-row configuration. The Atlas provided 96.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats and 20.6 cubic feet with all seats upright. The third-row legroom was more generous than many competitors, although it compromised the second-row legroom, which turned out to be the worst among its peers. The second-row bench was notably uncomfortable due to its thin, flat cushions.

Seat folding and third-row access were relatively straightforward, facilitated by a sliding second-row bench. The dashboard layout was driver-focused, with controls placed within easy reach from the driver’s seat. Additional conveniences included up to five USB ports and an optional wireless charging pad. The Atlas also featured up to 17 cupholders and a tall driving position, though forward visibility was limited.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Rogue featured an interior designed for day-to-day practicality, especially with useful storage options. The cabin included multiple areas to stash small items such as cupholders, USB ports, and a wireless charging pad. The cargo area was an advantage for the Rogue, capable of accommodating between 31.6 and 36.5 cubic feet of luggage depending on its configuration. With the second-row seats folded flat, total cargo space increased to 74.1 cubic feet.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas came equipped with standard Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto across all trims. The base trim included a 6.5-inch infotainment screen, while higher trims had an 8-inch screen. Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit, a 10.3-inch reconfigurable digital display, was available on higher trims. The Atlas promised to receive the new MIBIII infotainment system later in the year, featuring multi-phone pairing, improved voice recognition, and a redesigned navigation system. The SE with Technology trim enjoyed an 8-inch screen but lacked the Digital Cockpit; the screen's plain, text-heavy displays were less engaging. A 12-speaker Fender audio system was available on top trims, alongside a new 4G LTE WiFi hotspot supporting up to four devices with service provided by Verizon.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue's 2021 makeover also brought significant technological upgrades, which continued into the 2022 model. Higher trims boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch center infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display. The infotainment system utilized Google Maps and Waze when equipped with navigation, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard. Wireless Apple CarPlay was available on higher trims. The ProPilot Assist system integrated with Navi-Link provided an advanced hands-on driver-assist system, utilizing navigation data for predictive speed adjustments, thereby inching closer to more autonomous driving capabilities. Nissan’s Intelligent Key allowed for more flexible unlocking options, accommodating both front and rear door access.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas earned a top safety rating from the IIHS, except for a “marginal” grade in child-seat anchors and mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA ratings for the 2021 model were not available, although the 2020 model received a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with optional adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and traffic-jam assist on higher trims. Later in the model year, Volkswagen planned to introduce Travel Assist and Emergency Assist for added safety.

For 2022, the Nissan Rogue incorporated the extensive Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite across all trims, including features like automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, high beam assist, and rear automatic braking. The Rogue also featured ten supplemental airbags and extended crumple zones. Additional safety technologies included Intelligent Driver Alertness, rear door alert, blind spot intervention, and traffic sign recognition. The ProPilot Assist system provided even more advanced driver-assist functionalities, and the enhanced ProPilot Assist with Navi-Link added navigation system integration for predictive speed control. The 2022 Rogue received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, and the 2021 model earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.