Three-row SUVs are a dime a dozen these days. So how should you go about choosing the right one for satisfying all of your daily driving needs? Well, if you find yourself stuck choosing between the 2021 Mazda CX-9 and the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas, there are plenty of reasons to skip the CX-9 and go for the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas instead.

Choose what’s under the hood of the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas  

At the heart and soul of the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 235-hp to its name. Also available is a 3.6-liter V6 engine that Kelley Blue Book says provides plenty of power under the hood, 276-hp to be exact. 

As for the 2021 Mazda CX-9? It’s available with one engine, and one engine only. Whether you opt for a base model or a fully-loaded CX-9, you can expect it to come equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. Churning out 227-hp, that also makes the CX-9’s base engine slower than that of the Volkswagen Atlas’. 

Tow to your heart’s desire with the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas

Unfortunately for the Mazda CX-9, the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas doesn’t just have the edge when it comes to engine choices. This year’s model also has the edge on its Mazda competition when it comes to towing. While the Mazda CX-9 is only able to tow a maximum of 3,500-pounds, the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas is able to tow an impressive 5,000-pounds when properly equipped. 

The 2021 Mazda CX-9 just doesn’t offer enough space

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas continues to please with its spacious interior. With room for up to seven passengers, this year’s new Volkswagen Atlas also boasts 20.6 cubic-feet of cargo space, which expands to a whopping 96.8 cubic-feet of space with all seats folded down. The Mazda CX-9, on the other hand, offers a total of 14.4 cubic-feet of cargo space. Fold all its seats down and that expands to a maximum of 71.2 cubic feet, which is significantly less than what the Atlas has to offer.

But it’s not just a wealth of cargo space that this year’s Atlas has over the CX-9. As it turns out, its third-row is also much roomier than that of the Atlas’. According to Consumer Reports, its third-row is reasonably sized for a vehicle of its segment. Unfortunately for the Mazda CX-9, Consumer Reports says its third-row doesn’t offer enough knee and toe room, making its third-row suitable for kids only.

This Volkswagen won’t break the bank

The Volkswagen Atlas also boasts a lower starting price than its Mazda competition. So, if you’re hoping to save a few pennies, you’re going to want to skip this year’s CX-9. How much does the Volkswagen Atlas cost, then? Well, opt for the base model Atlas, and you can expect to spend approximately $31,555 on it. The CX-9, on the other hand, will have you spending at least $33,960.

Is the Volkswagen Atlas a good SUV?

The Volkswagen Atlas is a good SUV. It offers multiple engine options, is able to tow a decent load, and won’t have you spending all your hard-earned cash. To find out if it’s the right fit for you? We suggest taking this year’s model out for a spin.