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 2021 Previously optional advanced safety features are now standard.More standard comfort and convenience features on each trim.New Latitude Lux and related 80th Anniversary editions debut.
Pros Available V6 and turbocharged engines provide smooth, assertive power Suspension smooths out rough surfaces User-friendly 8.4-inch touchscreen on many models Trailhawk offers excellent off-road capability for a small SUV
Cons Sluggish acceleration with the base engine Less cargo capacity than other small crossovers
The 2021 Jeep Cherokee prioritizes off-road capability beyond all else.
Pros Excessive off-road talent Refined turbo-4 Better looks than before Good active safety features
Cons Pricey compared to class Poor gas mileage No hybrid Cramped interior
For 2021, Jeep gives the Cherokee several newly standard active safety features. These include automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and more. The lineup also benefits from reshuffled standard features. For instance, the base model adds heated exterior mirrors and one-touch up/down front side windows; the Trailhawk adds a heated steering wheel and front seats as well as remote start. There's also a new 80th Anniversary Edition that's based on the Latitude LUX trim level, so it inherits all the same standard features. Highlights include Granite Crystal 19-inch wheels, leather upholstery with contrast stitching, power-adjustable front seats, the larger 8.4-inch touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, and more.
Pros Tows more than its competition, multiple powertrain options, class-leading off-road capability.
Cons Drives bigger than compact rivals, interior isn't exactly spacious, less cargo space than top competitors.