Pros Powerful turbocharged engine Handsome updated styling Standard active safety tech
Cons Luxury Avenir trim will be expensive The brand doesn't command as much respect as some competitors
Buick has completely redesigned the Envision SUV for 2021, imbuing it with an eye-catching design that's far more handsome than the bland 2020 model featured.We haven't had the chance to sample the all-new Envision, but we suspect that the mid-range Essence model will likely satisfy most buyers. Those seeking a luxury ride with all the trimmings should turn their attention to the top-flight Avenir. When we know more about the Envision's standard and optional features, we'll update this story with results.
The redesigned 2021 Buick Envision comes with more standard features and a more stylish look.
Pros Good standard safety features Avenir trim More American-sized proportions Sharper style
Cons No word on price Will it have enough power? Is it bigger inside?
The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is no longer offered.Previous five trim levels reduced to three: Preferred, Essence and Avenir.Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
Pros Quiet interior at highway speeds Both the ride and the seats are comfortable Standard wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
Cons Disappointing real-world fuel economy Visibility is compromised by thick pillars Not much fun to drive
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
