2021 Atlas vs 2021 Pilot

2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2021 Honda Pilot

With auto manufacturers pumping out SUV and crossover models hand over fist, it can be difficult to diligently research and compare every single model, much less every trim. That’s where we come in.

We’ve compared the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SEL 4MOTION and the 2021 Honda Pilot Touring AWD to see which is the better bang for your buck.

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2020 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SEL 4MOTION

vs

2020 Honda Pilot Touring AWD

$44,195

MSRP

$44,920

3.6L V6

Engine

3.5L V6

276 hp / 266 lb-ft

Horsepower / Torque

280 hp / 262 lb-ft

8-speed auto

Transmission

9-speed auto

AWD

Drivetrain

AWD

16/22/19

Fuel Economy

19/26/22

 

New Three-Row Midsize SUV in Orange County, CA

2021 Atlas cargo bay showcase

Spacious Seating and Cargo Bay

The 2021 Atlas is more spacious than the 2021 Pilot. Period. With its standard eight-person capacity (seven if you get the second-row captain’s chairs), the 2021 Atlas seats adults up to around 6’0” comfortably, which is something most three-row midsize SUVs can’t say. The 2021 Pilot certainly can’t say it, as it’s third-row seats will only seat children comfortably. Similarly, the 2021 Atlas has way more cargo space. Behind the third row, there’s 20.6 cu-ft; behind the second, 55.5 cu-ft; behind the first, 96.8 cu-ft. The 2021 Pilot measurements are 16.5 cu-ft, 46.8 cu-ft, and 83.9 cu-ft behind each respective row.

Performance and Drivability

Just like last year’s model, the 2021 Atlas has two engine choices: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a 3.6-liter V6. Unlike last year, AWD is now available on models with the four-cylinder engine. Speaking of which, that four-cylinder puts out 235 horsepower and gets 21-city/24-highway mpg. The 2021 Pilot is rated higher than that with its sole V6 offering, but past Pilot models have struggled to live up to that estimate, particularly for city and suburban drivers. The 2021 Atlas is also agile for its size, handling corners surprisingly well. The 2021 Pilot is floaty when it comes to steering and handling, which is particularly noticeable in bad weather.

2021 Atlas cockpit showcase
2021 Atlas panoramic moonroof showcase
2021 Atlas exterior shot from behind

Want to learn more about the 2021 Atlas? Give Capistrano Volkswagen a call.

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