The 2021 VW Atlas is a competent family hauler that assimilates into the daily routine without fuss.
Pros Plenty of space Good warranty Good tech Relative value among competitors Solid powertrains
Cons A little boring Base touchscreen is on the small side Not fuel-efficient Cross Sport gets lost
VW refreshes the 2021 Atlas by adding updated front and rear ends that increase its overall length by almost three inches. Its face is graced by a more attractive three-bar grille and revised headlights, which now feature standard LED elements that continue out back. Models with the R-Line option also get new looks courtesy of its special badging, body kit, and 20- or 21-inch rims. Inside, there's a new steering wheel, updated stitching on the seats, an 8.0-inch touchscreen on most models, and the latest iteration of the company's Car-Net smartphone app. The four-cylinder Atlas is now available with all-wheel drive for the first time.
Pros No shortage of cargo or passenger space, reassuring driving manners, hard-to-beat value.
Cons Uninspired interior aesthetic, less fuel efficient than advertised, rides rough on broken surfaces.
The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.Restyled front and rear bodywork.Upgraded interior appointments.
Pros Spacious interior offers ample room for passengers in all three rows Great compromise between precise handling and everyday comfort Straightforward, easy-to-use cabin design
Cons Lackluster acceleration, even with the optional V6 Fuel economy lags that of most competitors
For 2020, the MDX carries over without any changes to its appearance, mechanical components, or available features. The lineup continues to offer a gasoline and gas-electric hybrid model as well as a second-row bench that allows up to seven passengers or captain's chairs that seat up to six. However, Acura did increase the base price of the regular MDX and the Sport Hybrid by $100.
Pros Entertaining to drive—for a three-row crossover, quick and smooth hybrid powertrain, standard driver assists.
Cons Unremarkable passenger space, quirky touchscreen setup, options inflate the price.
The 2020 Acura MDX is a stately three-row family crossover that has aged well.
PROS Handsome looks Confident power Spread-out space Good efficiency from hybrid Standard active safety features
CONS Pricey options packages Top trims don’t feel quite as luxurious as we’d expect Third row can be cramped for tall adults Shallow cargo area
The 2020 Acura MDX Hybrid comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 7-speed automated manual.No significant changes for 2020.
Pros Generous array of features and active driver aids for the money Excellent all-wheel-drive system allows for sharp handling Generous interior storage Quiet, comfortable and spacious cabin
Cons Cabin looks and feels less luxurious than those of some rivals Adaptive cruise control can be slow to respond and abrupt when it does Dual-screen infotainment system can be quite difficult to use Handoff between all-electric and engine power is clunky
