2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas underwent a notable styling refresh, which included new front and rear bumpers, redesigned LED headlights and taillights, and a new grille shared with the two-row Atlas Cross Sport model. These changes added 2.4 inches to the length of the vehicle, giving it a more assertive presence. The Atlas sported a somewhat bold demeanor, in contrast to the understated styling of its 2020 predecessor. However, the faux chrome exhaust tips were considered somewhat gimmicky. The R-Line trim package enhanced the sporty look with unique front and rear bumpers and side skirts. Despite a drag coefficient of 0.34—around the best one could expect from a boxy SUV—the changes were mainly cosmetic, as the Atlas continued to ride on the versatile MQB platform.

Wheel configurations varied by trim: 18-inch alloy wheels for S and SE trims, and 20-inch wheels for SE with Technology and higher trims. The R-Line package for the SEL or SEL Premium trims came standard with 21-inch wheels. Roof rails were standard, with a panoramic sunroof available on SE with Technology and standard on SEL and SEL Premium trims.

Inside, Volkswagen embraced a minimalist aesthetic, emphasizing functionality over decorative elements. The seating accommodated seven across three rows, with a combination of 60/40 and 50/50 split-folding benches, while higher trims offered the option for second-row captain’s chairs. Interior materials, however, didn’t impress at mid-level SE with Technology, as plastics felt cheap, and fake wood and metal trim failed to add any perceived luxury.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee stayed true to Jeep design traditions while borrowing heavily from the extended-length Grand Cherokee L from the previous model year. The two-row version arrived with familiar powertrain and trim offerings. At launch, trims included Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve, with prices ranging from $37,390 to $63,365.

The Grand Cherokee's exterior drew some nostalgic cues from the 1963 Wagoneer. Its forward-leaning grille, trapezoidal wheel arches, and well-proportioned stance echoed classic Jeep design. A black roof option and a limited selection of paint colors hinted at future customization options.

Inside, the Grand Cherokee impressed across the board. Even the base Laredo trim with cloth seats felt premium and well-constructed. Higher trims offered heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, front seat massagers, and quilted leather upholstery for a more luxurious experience. The Summit Reserve trim, in particular, was equipped with features like a McIntosh high-end audio system and a large panoramic sunroof, providing a plush cabin environment.

Volkswagen provided two engine choices for the 2021 Atlas. The base 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, felt adequate but mundane. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and optional 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, delivered a lackluster driving experience. Acceleration was passable, with rough transmission shifts detracting from ease of use. Handling was rather truck-like, and ride quality left much to be desired, maybe worsened by the 20-inch wheels.

The optional 3.6-liter VR6 engine, producing 276 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, was unique with its narrow "V" angle design. Equipped with a factory-installed tow hitch, this engine enabled a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. However, fuel economy wasn’t impressive, with the VR6 delivering 18-19 mpg combined depending on the drivetrain. These figures trailed behind competitors like the Toyota Highlander.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee came with more powerful options. The standard 3.6-liter V6 engine generated a robust 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, facilitating a 6,200-pound towing capacity. The available 5.7-liter Hemi V8, exclusive to higher trims, churned out 357 hp and 390 lb-ft, increasing towing capacity to 7,200 pounds.

Jeep offered three different 4WD systems. Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II, for varied off-road capabilities. The Trailhawk trim with Quadra-Drive II included advanced off-road features like a Quadra-Lift air suspension and Selec-Speed off-road cruise control. The 2022 Grand Cherokee stood out with its effective removal tops, providing setups suited for both casual drivers and off-road enthusiasts. The EPA estimated fuel economy ranged from 17 mpg combined for the V8 to 21 mpg for the V6. The vehicle's off-road prowess highlighted Jeep's engineering ingenuity.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas aimed to fulfill the role of a family hauler, offering three-row seating. Cargo capacity reached 96.8 cubic feet behind the front seats and 20.6 cubic feet with all seats upright. Notably, the third row offered more legroom compared to many competitors, though at the expense of the second row, which proved cramped and uncomfortable. The system-folding second- and third-row seats provided satisfactory flexibility for cargo, and the bench seats promoted third-row access.

The cabin layout was straightforward and user-friendly, reflected in the intuitive placement of controls. The inclusion of up to five USB ports and an available wireless charging pad hinted at a modernized interior, alongside up to 17 cupholders.

On the other hand, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee's redesign aimed to improve comfort and visibility. Front seats ranged from standard to fully-equipped massage chairs in higher trims. Improved sightlines benefited daily commutes and off-road adventures with ease. However, rear-seat room remained somewhat confined for tall passengers. The two-row model offered 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 70.8 cubic feet with seats folded down, trailing slightly behind the larger three-row Grand Cherokee L.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas came equipped with Bluetooth and smartphone compatibility through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The standard 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen upgraded to 8 inches in higher trims. VW's Digital Cockpit appeared in more pricey versions, showcasing a 10.3-inch reconfigurable display. VW planned to introduce its new MIBIII infotainment later in the year, bringing enhanced voice recognition and multi-phone pairing. The SE with Technology trim, however, was criticized for its small and generic-looking infotainment display. A 12-speaker Fender audio system enhanced audio quality in higher trims, accompanied by a built-in WiFi hotspot.

Contrastingly, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a technological marvel. Equipped with the next-gen Uconnect 5 system, it boasted improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates. Most trims sported an 8.4-inch touchscreen, upgradable to 10.1 inches in higher trims. The Grand Cherokee loaded Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, SiriusXM radio, and voice recognition as standard features. Additional upgrades included a head-up display, Night Vision system, McIntosh high-end audio, and a dual-screen rear entertainment system. A 10.25-inch touchscreen installed for the front passenger created a unique entertainment experience.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in crash tests, receiving top "good" ratings from the IIHS with some exceptions in child-seat anchors and headlight performance. The 2020 model’s five-star NHTSA rating strongly indicated the 2021 model would perform similarly. All trims featured essential safety tech like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, while advanced features such as lane-keeping assist and traffic-jam assist were added in higher trims. VW planned to roll out more sophisticated driver aids during the model year.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee focused heavily on safety, using a robust mix of aluminum and high-strength steel. Jeep’s extensive ADAS package included Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist, which offered Level 2 hands-on semi-autonomous driving. Jeep’s claims about structural improvements seemed promising compared to the previous generation’s mediocre crash protection. A forthcoming hands-free driving assist on approved roads was set to enhance the Grand Cherokee's safety technology even further.