The 2018 Volkswagen Atlas ranked #9 in Midsize SUVs. Currently the Volkswagen Atlas has a score of 8.3 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 22 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Spacious seating – even in the third row Large cargo area Drives smaller than it is
Cons Bland interior V6 sometimes struggles for power
Pros Second-row comfort and flexibility Cargo space Crash-test ratings Three child seats fit in second row Multimedia screen is sharp and bright Camera and parking-sensor integration
Cons V-6 power is underwhelming Not enough hidden storage space Steering is too light Conservative styling Advanced safety features not available on lower trim levels All-wheel drive with V-6 only
The 2018 Volkswagen Atlas is an all-new midsize crossover. It slots in between the compact Tiguan and high-end Touareg in Volkswagen's lineup. The Atlas is actually larger than the Touareg, but it doesn't offer the same level of features or options.
PROS Spacious interior offers ample room for passenger in all three rows Great compromise between precise handling and everyday comfort Straightforward cabin design makes everything easy to use
CONS Fuel economy lags that of some competitors Not very quick to accelerate, even with the optional V6
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class ranks 2 out of 5 Luxury Subcompact SUVs. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV offers compact-car-like agility and fuel economy in an upscale package. However, there’s little passenger and storage space – even for a subcompact – and its ride isn't as cushioned as many of its rivals.
Pros Powerful engines Outstanding handling Lavish interior Class-leading reliability score
Cons Poor cargo capacity Small back seats
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is a small, luxury compact 'ute that prioritizes "looks" over "feels," or in other words, it's probably perfect for a lot of shoppers. Mercedes' smallest crossover—if you can call it that—returns this year to challenge our ideas of compact SUVs, performance, and rear seat head room. Offered as a base front-drive GLA250, all-wheel drive GLA250, or top Mercedes-AMG GLA45, the GLA class may follow Mercedes' nomenclature as an SUV, but it's in a class all its own.
Pros Impressive dynamic driving Lots of turbo fun Sporty and small for two Decent fuel economy Great options ...
Cons but they're pricey $60,000 for a subcompact hatch? Cramped rear seat
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality is available for both 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class versions this year. Mercedes says the instrument panel has been mildly redesigned, and the 8-inch display screen is thinner than before. The new AMG Dinamica package adds faux-suede upholstery to the GLA 45's steering wheel and dashboard.
Pros Sporty handling and performance even in the base model AMG GLA 45's long list of available technology and safety features.
Cons Ride quality is firm to the point some might object Road and wind noise is in abundance Automatic transmission can operate awkwardly in stop-and-go situations Less cargo capacity than its rivals.
