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 Forward collision warning system can now detect pedestrians at night.
Pros Attractive and comfortable interior Engaging driving experience Impressive fuel economy Good selection of driver aids and active safety features
Cons Below-average cargo space Cramped rear seat Suspension tuning could be too firm for some
The 2021 Mazda CX-3 is an agile crossover with quick acceleration and good fuel economy, but it lacks rear passenger space and has a limited cargo hold. This vehicle does not have an overall score or ranking because it has not been evaluated for predicted reliability.
Pros Athletic handling Punchy acceleration Upscale interior Long list of standard safety features
Cons Snug rear seat Engine struggles at highway speeds Small cargo space
Mazda has made no changes to its smallest SUV for 2021, as the CX-3 enters the new model year exactly as it was in 2020. Mazda has announced that 2021 will be the final model year for the CX-3.
Pros Spunky driving dynamics, fuel-efficient powertrain, cheeky exterior styling.
Cons Tight rear seat and cargo space, unrefined four-cylinder engine, flinty ride.
