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
No significant changes for 2021.
Pros Generous cargo and passenger room Quiet and smooth ride Plenty of standard features Lots of device charging solutions
Cons Many advanced safety features only available on top trim levels Pricier than non-luxury rivals, but cabin materials aren't much nicer Thirstier than V6-powered competitors
The 2021 Buick Enclave is the smoother, smothering three-row crossover in GM’s stable.
Pros Great look Comfortable ride Good touchscreen Handsome interior
Cons Automatic braking not available on all models Limited body colors on base version Spendy Avenir Not very fuel-efficient
Buick's three-row family SUV rolls over to 2021 with only a few tweaks. Premium and Avenir models now come standard with power-adjustable lumbar support for the front seats and a massage feature, while the air ionizer is no longer available. Those two top models also receive a formerly optional package of driver-assistance features—including automated emergency braking and lane-keeping assist—as standard.
Pros Upscale exterior styling, plenty of tech features are standard, large cargo bay.
Cons Down-market interior materials, no standard driver-assists on lower trims, V-6 engine isn't particularly efficient.