2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, evolved from the GL-Class, which debuted in 2006. Initially intended to replace the G-Class, the GLS instead found its niche among affluent families seeking a luxurious, three-row SUV. The GLS's design softened its angles and lines, making it appear less bulky than its predecessors. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen that spanned nearly two-thirds of the dashboard, emphasizing its tech-centric controls.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas, following significant updates in 2021, saw minor modifications and a simplified lineup. The Atlas's design remained big and boxy, with the SEL Premium R-Line trim featuring 21-inch wheels that enhanced its upscale look. Inside, the Atlas offered a simple yet premium design, though some materials felt cheap for its price point. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample room for seven passengers and numerous storage areas, though unlined compartments led to unwanted noise.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered three engine options. The entry-level GLS 450 featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 came with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The AMG GLS 63, with a hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, produced an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in just 4.1 seconds. The GLS 63 also featured an adaptive air suspension system, multiple drive modes, and E-Active Body Control for a smooth and composed ride.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options. The standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produced 235 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and available in front-wheel drive (FWD) or 4Motion all-wheel drive (AWD). The V6 engine, standard on higher trims, delivered 276 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. The Atlas featured multiple driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual, as well as Active Control calibrations for different conditions. However, the V6 engine lacked refinement and power, leading to a less satisfying driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered three rows of spacious seating, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. The third row, while not as spacious, could still accommodate full-size adults. The GLS provided 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded and 87.4 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, though some controls were cumbersome to use.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space and comfort, seating seven people comfortably, even in the third row. The Atlas offered 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 55.5 cubic feet with the third row folded and 96.8 cubic feet with both rows folded. The interior featured numerous storage areas, though many were unlined, leading to unwanted noise. Higher trims added features like genuine leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a massive touch screen and a trackpad controller. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though it required a USB-C cable. The MBUX voice-control system responded to commands like "Find me a gas station" and could be activated by saying "Hey Mercedes." The digital dash extended to the fully-digital instrument panel, controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas featured the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrument cluster as standard, with an 8-inch display on lower trims and a 10.25-inch display on higher trims. The Atlas SE had a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims featured the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Fender premium sound system. However, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and cumbersome controls.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with numerous driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. Additional safety features included automatic parking assist, a surround-view camera system, a driver-drowsiness monitor, and crosswind assist. Available safety tech included lane-keep assist, lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and a following-distance indicator.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a comprehensive list of safety features, including automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and Travel Assist. The Atlas also featured brighter LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation and an adaptive front lighting system. However, the Lane Assist technology had issues with old construction markings and exit ramps, and crash-test ratings were decent but not class-leading.