2021 Honda Pilot vs. Volkswagen Atlas: The Pilot Has 2 Big Advantages
Caden Goodwin
· 3 min read
The 2021
Honda
Pilot and 2021 Volkswagen Atlas are both some of the most popular SUVs. The Honda Pilot VP is also one of the cheapest SUVS to insure
. Affordable
car insurance
is important, but you also want an SUV that suits your needs. The Honda Pilot is an excellent choice and has a good reputation among consumers.It's been a few years since the Pilot's last redesign, so some drivers might prefer a fresh competitor. The Atlas has a slightly cheaper starting price, but does that make it the superior midsize SUV? Here's what the experts at
Kelley Blue Book
(KBB) had to say.
The 2021 Honda Pilot is still a strong favourite
The Honda Pilot isn't outdated by any means, especially since the automaker continues to add small upgrades each year. The nine-speed automatic transmission is new for 2021, paired with a V6 with 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
According to KBB, the best qualities of the Honda Pilot include seating up to eight people, available all-wheel drive (AWD), and strong resale value. With standard front-wheel drive (FWD), the Honda Pilot gets an estimated overall mileage of 23 mpg. With AWD, the Pilot tows up to 5,000 pounds.
The ride is comfortable and models with AWD have secure handling. On the standard trim, the Honda Pilot doesn't have many infotainment features. You’ll have to spend more on higher trims for smartphone integration and a bigger touchscreen. However, every trim comes with
safety features
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The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas is a solid newcomer
MORE: Critics and Consumers Disagree Over the Best Midsize Truck of 2021
The Volkswagen Atlas offers two engine options, but KBB says that the base engine runs great at 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Both options include an eight-speed automatic transmission.
You can expect to get a combined fuel mileage of 22 mpg on an AWD or FWD model. Like the Honda Pilot, the Atlas is estimated to tow up to 5,000 pounds. While it's from a German brand, it's clear that the Atlas was designed with American customers in mind.
There’s more interior space for passengers, and the design emphasizes engine power. The Atlas has a bit more space for passengers and cargo than its Honda rival. The base model of the Volkswagen Atlas comes with better connectivity and driver-assistance features.
The Honda Pilot might have better value
Both the Honda Pilot and Volkswagen Atlas are roomy SUVs with great safety ratings and ride quality. However, vehicles from Honda have historically had high resale value. The Pilot is also well-known for its reliability; being a trusted favorite for three generations.
While the Volkswagen Atlas has a cheaper starting price, the Honda Pilot has less expensive options overall. The top-tier Atlas SEL Premium R-Line costs $50,725. By comparison, a fully-loaded Honda Pilot Black Edition retails for $50,220.
Whichever SUV you go with,
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