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
The 2020 Lexus GX 460 comes with four wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.LED headlights are now standard.Lexus' Safety System+ included on every trim level.
Pros Decent off-road capability in a segment largely without it Seating position provides a good view of the road Easy-to-use interior controls
Cons Cargo capacity and rear-seat space are both compromised Uncomfortable seats Poor fuel economy and acceleration Poor ride on broken pavement
The 2020 Lexus GX is a rugged luxury SUV for those few who want serious capability in a plush package.The 2020 Lexus GX 460 is probably the most capable off-roader valet parked in front of a swanky restaurant or an upscale shopping center, at least as long as there are no Range Rovers present.
Pros Rugged personality Safety tech now standard Decent tow rig Cushy ride
Cons Funky tailgate Lousy fuel economy Trucky handling Cramped row three
Lexus has given the GX a host of upgrades for the 2020 model year. Its sheetmetal benefits from a revised spindle grille, and its back door, emblem, and license-garnish finish have been updated. Triple-beam LED headlights are now standard, and Atomic Silver joins the palette of exterior colors. Within its cabin, the GX gets new detailing on its steering wheel and shift knob, along with two new rear-seat USB ports. Additionally, the driver-assistance features in the Lexus Safety System+ suite of amenities are now standard on all models.
Pros Superb off-road skills, long list of standard driver-assistance features, peaceful cabin.
Cons Uncomfortable second-row seats, rivals models offer more cargo space, poor fuel economy.
