2022 Subaru Forester vs 2021 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas underwent a styling refresh, featuring new front and rear bumpers, standard LED headlights and taillights, and a redesigned grille. These updates extended the Atlas by 2.4 inches, giving it a more extroverted appearance compared to its predecessor. The R-Line trim added sportier elements like front and rear bumpers and side skirts. Despite these cosmetic changes, the Atlas retained its MQB platform, shared with other VW models. The interior followed a minimalist design, with a standard seven-seat configuration and available second-row captain’s chairs. However, the material quality, especially in the mid-level SE with Technology trim, was below average, with cheap-feeling plastics and faux wood and metal trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Forester, particularly in the Wilderness trim, emphasized functionality and ruggedness. The Wilderness model featured a suspension lift, higher ride height, and protective cladding, giving it a distinctive, albeit homely, appearance. Inside, the Forester prioritized practicality with water-repellant StarTex simulated leather and all-weather floor mats. The interior combined hard plastic and soft surfaces, creating a cabin that felt well-constructed but somewhat dated. The 8-inch Starlink infotainment system was user-friendly, though the presence of three display screens was less than ideal. Overall, the Forester's design focused on utility and durability, appealing to those seeking adventure.

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 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 driving experience with the base engine and AWD was underwhelming, with adequate acceleration but rough shifts. Handling was truck-like, and ride quality was poor, with noticeable impacts from road imperfections. The Atlas had an Offroad mode and eight inches of ground clearance but lacked a 4WD system with low range. Towing capacity varied, with VR6 models capable of towing 5,000 pounds, while four-cylinder models were limited to 2,000 pounds. Fuel economy was unimpressive, with the four-cylinder engine rated at 22 mpg combined with FWD and the VR6 at 19 mpg combined.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. All models featured a CVT and AWD, with the Wilderness model offering a 25% increase in initial torque supply. The Forester Wilderness doubled its towing capacity to 3,000 pounds. The EPA rated the Wilderness at 26 mpg combined, and during testing, it averaged 25.9 mpg. The Forester's engine was adequate at sea level but felt sluggish at higher altitudes. The CVT had eight programmed ratios and performed well, with the SI-Drive system enhancing responsiveness. The Forester excelled in various driving environments, with its long-travel suspension absorbing bumps and maintaining road feel. The Wilderness trim's off-road capabilities were impressive, handling challenging terrain with ease.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas was designed as a family hauler, offering 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 second-row bench seat was uncomfortable, with thin cushions. The Atlas featured a sliding second-row bench for easy third-row access. Controls were logically laid out, with up to five USB ports and an optional wireless charging pad. The Atlas had a tall driving position but limited forward visibility. Parking sensors and active park assist were available on higher trims.

The 2022 Subaru Forester emphasized functionality, with easy entry and exit due to tall seating hip points. The StarTex upholstery was water-resistant, and the Wilderness trim included all-weather floor mats and a rubber cargo mat. The Forester's roof rails accommodated a dynamic load of 220 pounds and a static load of 800 pounds. Comfort levels were high, with excellent visibility and rear air conditioning vents. Cargo space measured 28.9 cubic feet without the sunroof and 26.9 cubic feet with it, expanding to 74.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The squared-off cargo area was practical, and the Wilderness trim included a full-size spare.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas featured Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The base S trim had a 6.5-inch infotainment screen, while other models had an 8-inch screen. The Digital Cockpit was available on higher trims, offering a 10.3-inch digital display. The MIBIII infotainment system was introduced later in the model year, enhancing voice recognition and navigation. The base audio system was decent, with a 12-speaker Fender system available on higher trims. A 4G LTE WiFi hotspot was new for 2021, supporting up to four devices.

The 2022 Subaru Forester included a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Premium trim added a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. Wilderness, Limited, and Touring trims featured an 8-inch screen with navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system. The Wilderness trim also had a 180-degree forward-view camera. The Harman Kardon system delivered clear sound, though the navigation system lacked a breadcrumb function. The PIN Code Access feature allowed keyless entry, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top "good" ratings in IIHS crash tests, with a "marginal" rating for child-seat anchors and mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA awarded 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. SEL and SEL Premium trims were set to receive Travel Assist and Emergency Assist later in the model year.

The 2022 Subaru Forester debuted the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, offering improved accuracy and smoother operation. It included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist. The Forester featured a rear-seat reminder, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Touring trim included DriverFocus, a facial recognition technology. The NHTSA awarded the Forester a 5-star overall rating, and it was expected to retain the IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" rating.