2021 Volkswagen Atlas Vs. 2020 Volkswagen Atlas

The Volkswagen Atlas has many strengths, but one of its biggest (literally) is space; sheer, unadulterated space. This midsize SUV’s wide-open interior has enabled it to provide, year after year, one of the largest cargo areas in the class. It’s also one of the very few midsize SUVs able to provide adult-friendly third-row seating.

We’re happy to report that the 2021 VW Atlas carries this bounty of space forward from previous model years. It also still boasts all the other elements that Atlas lovers hold dear. So, what’s changed? Is there anything that’s been added or removed from the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas?

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2021 Volkswagen Atlas	Vs.	2020 Volkswagen Atlas
$31,545	Starting MSRP	$31,545
96.8 cubic feet	Max Cargo Volume	96.8 cubic feet
Updated to match Atlas Cross Sport	Exterior Styling on Three-Row Model	Not updated to match Atlas Cross Sport
Available with four-cylinder or V-6 engine	All-Wheel Drive	Available only with V-6 engine

Changes Made to the 2021 VW Atlas

The main differences between the 2021 and 2020 Volkswagen Atlas lie in the exterior styling of the three-row incarnation and the availability of all-wheel drive. Regarding the former, VW has updated its design language for the three-row 2021 VW Atlas; headlight and bumper designs are now analogous to the two-row VW Atlas Cross Sport, solidifying the cutting-edge family membership.

Regarding the latter, buyers can now opt to get all wheel drive with either 2021 Atlas engine option. In years past, only the V-6 engine could be paired to AWD.

A Brief History of the Atlas

The Volkswagen Atlas was first introduced as an all-new model for 2018. 2019 saw the standardization of several safety assistance features that had previously been optional; these gizmos were forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking and blind spot monitoring.

For 2020, the two-row VW Atlas Cross Sport model debuted. It enjoyed updated exterior styling. When 2021 rolled around, the exterior styling on the three-row model was also refreshed. Additionally, as noted above, all-wheel drive is now available with the four-cylinder engine.

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