2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs. Lexus RXL vs Acura MDX vs Volvo XC90
A popular choice for growing families and those living busy lifestyles, three-row SUVs offer versatility, generous interior space, and capable performance not found on other types of vehicles. Since its debut in 2018, the Volkswagen Atlas has become a popular choice in this segment, thanks to a long list of premium standard amenities, cutting-edge tech features, and unparalleled peace of mind resulting from class-leading warranty protection.
With so many different three-row SUVs to choose from, making the right choice might seem like a daunting task, but to help you out, we’ve assembled this in-depth model comparison so you can see how the Atlas stacks up against other popular 3-row SUVs in terms of important aspects like Pricing and Value, Standard Equipment, Performance, and Versatility. We think the Atlas shines brightest when compared side-by-side with some of what have – up till now – been the most popular vehicles in the segment.
Volkswagen Atlas vs Lexus RXL
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VS |
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|---|---|---|
2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SEL R-Line 4MOTION |
2021 Lexus RX 350L AWD |
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| $45,925 ? | MSRP | $49,400 |
| Standard Park Distance Control ? | Parking Sensors | Optional |
| 21 inches ? | Wheel Size | 18 inches |
| 96.8 cubic feet ? | Max Cargo Volume | 58.5 cubic feet |
| Standard ? | Heated Steering Wheel | Optional |
| Standard ? | Heated Front Seats | Optional |
| Standard ? | Seat Memory | Not Available |
| Standard ? | Navigation System | Optional |
| Standard ? | Power Sunroof | Optional |
| 41.5/37.6/33.7 Inches ? | Legroom (1st, 2nd, and 3rd Rows) | 41.4/30.9/23.5 Inches |
| 41.3/40.4/38.3 Inches ? | Headroom (1st, 2nd, and 3rd Rows) | 39.8/38.5/34.8 Inches |
| 61.5/60.8/54.9 Inches ? | Shoulder Room (1st, 2nd, and 3rd Rows) | 58.3/57.8/45.7 Inches |
| 2 Years / 20,000 Miles ? | Scheduled Maintenance | 1 Year / 10,000 Miles |
First up to challenge the Volkswagen Atlas is the Lexus RX 350L AWD. Comparing equally-equipped trim levels that feature three-row seating and AWD in both vehicles, the Atlas begins this matchup with a sizable $3,475 price advantage. Unfortunately for Lexus, the MSRP is not the only area where the Volkswagen Atlas outshines the Lexus RX 350L.
When it comes to confidence behind the wheel, Volkswagen has Lexus beat with standard Park Distance Control which takes the guesswork out of parking. This hand feature is a costly option at Lexus.
A heated steering wheel and heated front seats with a memory function are included as standard to help keep you toasty. You'll always reach your destination safely and on time with a standard navigation system found inside the Atlas. Open its standard power sunroof to add fresh air and sunlight into the cabin. Again, Lexus buyers will be forced to shell out additional cash in order to get these great features. Additionally, the Atlas delivers a cavernous interior that allows for more space in all 3 rows for occupants and a maximum cargo capacity that the Lexus RX 350L can’t come close to.
Finally, the Volkswagen Atlas comes backed with complimentary 2 Year / 20,000-mile scheduled maintenance. This coverage lasts twice as long as Lexus’ complimentary scheduled maintenance offering. It’s pretty clear to see -when you compare the cavernous interior, standard amenities, additional year of scheduled maintenance, AND a $4,000 price advantage, it’s easy to see why drivers continue to choose the Volkswagen Atlas.
Volkswagen Atlas vs Acura MDX
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VS |
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|---|---|---|
2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SEL R-Line 4MOTION |
2022 Acura MDX 3.5L V6 SH-AWD |
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| $45,925 ? | MSRP | $48,900 |
| Regular ? | Fuel Type | Premium |
| Standard ? | Roof Rails | Optional |
| Standard ? | Fog Lights | Optional |
| Standard, Keyfob ? | Remote Start | Optional |
| Standard ? | Heated Steering Wheel | Optional |
| Standard ? | Navigation System | Requires Higher Trim Level |
| Standard ? | Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers | Not Available |
| Park Distance Control ? | Park Sensors | Optional |
| 41.3/40.3/38.3 inches ? | Headroom (1st, 2nd, and 3rd Rows) | 38.5/38.1/36.2 inches |
| 96.8 cubic feet ? | Cargo Volume | 95.0 cubic feet |
| 2 Years / 20,000 Miles ? | Scheduled Maintenance | Not Available |
Our second challenger is the 2022 Acura MDX. Similar to the Lexus RX 350L we just reviewed, choosing the Atlas V6 SEL R-Line 4MOTION will still save you $2,975 versus the Acura. Like the Lexus however, the additional standard features and roomy interior help set the Atlas apart.
A simple press of a button allows you to pre-heat the Atlas’s cabin thanks to standard remote start. Once inside, nothing feels better on a cold day than a heated steering wheel for cold hands. Be prepared to pay extra for these two great options on the MDX. Drivers and passengers alike will appreciate greater headroom in every row inside the Atlas. Plus, you’ll have 1.8 cubic feet of additional cargo capacity in the Atlas, meaning that you’ll never need to pack light for weekend getaways.
In terms of smart tech features, the Acura is no match for the Volkswagen Atlas. Use the standard navigation system to get turn-by-turn directions or discover a new restaurant. Park Distance Control makes it virtually effortless to squeeze your Atlas in or out of a tight parking space.
On the value front, Acura doesn’t provide complimentary scheduled maintenance at all, while Volkswagen gives you complimentary scheduled maintenance coverage for your first 2 Years / 20,000-miles of ownership. Again, those looking for a roomier SUV with more standard equipment, more cargo capacity, and savings to boot are choosing the Volkswagen Atlas over the Acura MDX.
Volkswagen Atlas vs Volvo XC90
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VS |
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|---|---|---|
2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SEL Premium 4MOTION |
2021 Volvo XC90 T5 Momentum AWD |
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| $49,025 ? | MSRP | $51,500 |
| 3.6-Liter V6 ? | Engine Type | 2.0-Liter Turbocharged I-4 |
| 276 HP / 266 lb-ft ? | Horsepower / Torque | 250 HP / 258 lb-ft |
| Regular ? | Fuel Type | Premium |
| Keyfob ? | Remote Start | Smart Device |
| Standard ? | Heated Steering Wheel | Optional |
| Standard ? | Ventilated Front Seats | Not Available |
| Standard ? | Heated Rear Seats | Optional |
| Standard ? | Rear Audio Controls | Not Available |
| Standard w/Voice Activation ? | Navigation System | Optional |
| 96.8 cubic feet ? | Interior Cargo Volume | 85.7 cubic feet |
| 41.3 / 40.4 / 38.3 inches ? | Headroom (1st, 2nd, and 3rd Rows) | 38.9 / 38.5 / 36.3 inches |
| 41.5 / 37.6 / 33.7 inches ? | Legroom (1st, 2nd, and 3rd Rows) | 40.9 / 37 / 31.9 inches |
| 21 Inches | Wheel Size | 19 Inches |
The third and final rival to challenge the Volkswagen Atlas is the Volvo XC90. While both SUVs offer three-row seating for up to 7 passengers, the Atlas has a starting price that’s $2,475 less than the XC90 – and that’s before we begin to compare standard equipment.
In terms of performance, the Atlas comes equipped with a larger 3.6-liter V6 delivering greater horsepower and torque than the XC90. The Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium also includes 21-inch alloy wheels, providing a commanding appearance on the road compared with the XC90’s 19-inch diameter wheels.
Although both vehicles come equipped with a remote start system, you'll be required to fumble around with your phone in order to start the XC90 instead of simply pressing a keyfob button on the Atlas. Additionally, the Atlas helps you tame the elements with a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats all included as standard equipment. These great comfort amenities are an additional cost or entirely unavailable on the Volvo.
Rear seat passengers can control the music without having to reach over another row thanks to standard rear audio controls in the Atlas. Use its navigation system to get exact directions to any location of your choice with the sound of your voice. The XC90 does not offer similar features as standard equipment.
One of the most important aspects shoppers consider when choosing a three-row SUV is interior space. When you compare the numbers, the obvious choice is the Volkswagen. It offers greater headroom and legroom across all three rows of seating as compared to the Volvo XC90 as well as maximum cargo space. For long-distance drives or short trips across town, the Volkswagen Atlas wins out.
Winner - Volkswagen Atlas
Now that you've seen the results of our extensive research, it's clear that your best option for value, comfort, and peace of mind is the Volkswagen Atlas. Our team at Volkswagen of Ann Arbor is standing by to introduce you to your new Atlas. We're here to help you select the right model which is the best fit for your lifestyle.