2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that offered a blend of elegance and practicality. Originally launched as the GL-Class in 2006, it was designed to replace the G-Class, but the latter's popularity kept it in production. The GLS, with its three rows and plush interior, became a family-friendly alternative to the Navigator and Escalade. The 2021 model featured softened angles and a sleek design, with a futuristic cabin highlighted by a massive digital screen that spanned most of the dashboard. Available in three trims—GLS 450, GLS 580, and the AMG GLS 63—the GLS offered a range of standard features, including remote keyless entry, nine USB ports, and a 13-speaker Burmester sound system. Various option packages allowed for further customization, enhancing comfort and style.

In contrast, the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received a styling refresh, with new front and rear bumpers, LED headlights and taillights, and a new grille. These changes added 6 centimetres to its length, giving it a more extroverted look compared to the previous model. The Atlas maintained its MQB platform, shared with other VW models, ensuring flexibility and reliability. It offered a minimalist interior with a standard seven-seat configuration, though the second-row legroom was less than ideal. The Atlas provided a straightforward layout for controls and up to five USB ports, along with a wireless charging pad. Despite its functional design, the material quality was below average, with cheap plastics and faux trim. The Atlas aimed to appeal to families seeking a rugged image without the minivan stigma.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines. The entry-level GLS 450 featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 upgraded to a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC AWD system. The AMG GLS 63, with a hand-crafted 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, boasted 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds. All engines included the EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system, adding 21 hp and 184 lb-ft when needed. The GLS 63 featured an adaptive air suspension, adjustable ground clearance, and multiple drive modes, offering a smooth and agile driving experience.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas provided two engine options. The standard 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four produced 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A 3.6-litre VR6, available on higher trims, offered 276 hp and 266 lb-ft. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Motion AWD. The 4Motion system defaulted to FWD to save fuel but could send power to the rear wheels when needed. The Atlas's driving experience was underwhelming, with rough shifts and poor ride quality. Despite its multilink independent rear suspension, handling was truck-like, and the ride was harsh. The Atlas offered different drive modes, but they did not improve on-road handling. The VR6 models had a towing capacity of 2,267 kilograms, while the four-cylinder models were limited to 900 kilograms. Fuel efficiency was unimpressive, with the four-cylinder rated at 10.9 L/100 km combined and the VR6 at 12.9 L/100 km.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided spacious seating across three rows, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. The standard seven-passenger seating could be reduced to six with optional second-row captain's chairs. The third row, while less spacious, was still suitable for adults. The GLS offered 355 litres of cargo space with all seats up, expanding to 1,209 litres with the third row folded, and 2,400 litres with both rear rows down. The driver and front passenger enjoyed numerous storage compartments, including a large centre console and spacious in-door bins.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas, designed as a family hauler, offered average passenger and cargo space for its segment. It provided 2,741 litres of cargo space behind the front seats and 583 litres with all seats up. The Atlas boasted more third-row legroom than most competitors, but at the expense of second-row legroom, which was the worst among its peers. The second-row bench seat was uncomfortable, with thin cushions. Folding and raising the seats was straightforward, and third-row access was easy thanks to a sliding second-row bench. The Atlas featured a driver-focused layout, with controls within easy reach. It offered up to five USB ports and a wireless charging pad, along with up to 17 cupholders.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a massive touch screen and a trackpad controller. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, though a USB-C cable was required. The MBUX system offered voice control, activated by saying "Mercedes" or "Hey Mercedes," and could understand complex commands. The digital dash extended to the instrument panel, both controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. The system had a learning curve but provided a comprehensive technological experience.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas featured Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The base trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while higher trims received an 8-inch screen with satellite radio. The Digital Cockpit, available on higher trims, replaced analog gauges with a 10.3-inch digital display. The Atlas was set to receive the MIBIII infotainment system later in the year, offering multi-phone pairing and improved voice recognition. The base audio system was decent, with a 12-speaker Fender system available on the Execline trim.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS included a range of driver-assistance features, such as Active Brake Assist, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic high beams. It also offered automatic parking assist, a driver-drowsiness monitor, and crosswind assist. Available safety tech included lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The GLS came with a full array of airbags, traction control, self-tensioning seatbelts, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top ratings in IIHS crash tests, except for a "marginal" rating for child-seat anchors and mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA had not published ratings for the 2021 model, but the 2020 model received a five-star overall rating. The Atlas included standard automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist available on higher trims. The Execline trim was set to receive Travel Assist and Emergency Assist later in the year.