The Santa Fe receives a visual freshening for 2021 that includes bolder front-end styling and improvements to its interior. Three new powertrains are offered: A 2.5-liter four-cylinder replaces the standard 2.4-liter unit, a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder replaces the optional turbocharged 2.0-liter, and a hybrid variant powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder and an electric motor joins the lineup. The Santa Fe gains a push-button shifter, several new optional driver-assistance features including a semi-autonomous driving mode, larger 8.0-inch and optional 10.3-inch infotainment displays, an optional 12.3-inch digital gauge display, and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Following in the larger Palisade's footsteps, the Santa Fe also gains a fancy Calligraphy trim level with quilted leather upholstery, a color head-up display, standard all-wheel drive, unique exterior accents, and more upscale interior embellishments.
The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe pushes efficiency with a new hybrid model.
PROS Larger standard and available touchscreens Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models More efficient, potent powertrains Revised transmission
CONS Expected price increase Calligraphy edges into Genesis turf Unknown standard features Unknown value
Pros Comfy, spacious, clever tech
Cons Not very interesting, not as cheap as it was, lack of choice RE engines
The Atlas Cross Sport is a stylish mid-size two-row SUV, but it's too similar to its three-row namesake to stand out from the crowd.
Pros Spunky styling, tons of available features, roomy interior.
Cons Ho-hum driving dynamics, truncated cargo space, shorter powertrain warranty than main rivals.
The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.All-new two-row midsize SUV based on the popular three-row Atlas.Introduces the first generation of the Atlas Cross Sport.
Pros Spacious interior with straightforward cabin design Good combination of athletic handling and everyday comfort Stylish exterior design
Cons Not very quick to accelerate, even with the optional V6 Lower fuel economy than some competitors
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
