2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2021 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas underwent a styling refresh that included new front and rear bumpers, standard LED headlights and taillights, and a new grille design shared with the two-row Atlas Cross Sport model. These changes added 6 centimetres to the vehicle's length, giving it a more extroverted appearance compared to the previous year's model. Despite the cosmetic updates, the Atlas continued to ride on the same MQB platform, which was known for its flexibility across various VW models. The interior maintained a minimalist approach, with a standard seven-seat configuration and available second-row captain’s chairs on higher trims. However, the material quality was noted to be below average, with cheap-feeling plastics and faux wood and metal trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was recognized for its elegant design, maintaining Jeep's signature features like the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches. The L model was 29 centimetres longer than the standard two-row Grand Cherokee, accommodating third-row seating and offering more second-row legroom. The interior was luxurious, with high-end materials such as real wood, aluminum, and Palermo leather. The Grand Cherokee L's design was praised for its tactile quality, reminiscent of a Mercedes, and offered a spacious cabin with ample room in all rows. The vehicle's air suspension provided a comfortable ride, and the five ride height settings enhanced its versatility.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-litre VR6 engine with 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Motion all-wheel drive. The driving experience with the base engine was underwhelming, with adequate acceleration but rough shifts and poor ride quality. The Atlas had a towing capacity of up to 2,267 kilograms with the VR6 engine, but its fuel efficiency was not impressive, with combined ratings of 10.9 L/100 km for the four-cylinder and 12.9 L/100 km for the VR6.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine with 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.7-litre V8 engine with 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and 4WD was standard in Canada. The V6 engine was found lacking in power for the vehicle's size, while the V8 provided a more robust performance. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was praised for its ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension offering a smooth ride. The vehicle's towing capacity was 3,265 kilograms, and the V6 engine had a combined fuel efficiency rating of 11.3 L/100 km.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas was designed as a family hauler, offering 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 third-row legroom was better than most competitors, but the second-row legroom was lacking. The interior featured a driver-focused layout with easy-to-reach controls and up to five USB ports. The Atlas also offered a tall driving position, but forward visibility was less than optimal.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L provided ample space in all rows, with the third row accommodating average adults comfortably. The interior featured a Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a sleek interface and physical switches for climate and stereo controls. The Grand Cherokee L offered a panoramic roof, large windows, and multiple USB ports for passenger comfort. However, the air vents were noted to be insufficient, requiring the fan to be kept on high, which was loud.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas came with Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The base model had a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while higher trims featured an 8-inch screen with satellite radio. The Digital Cockpit was available on higher trims, offering a 10.3-inch digital display. The infotainment system was set to receive an update to VW’s MIBIII system later in the year. The base audio system was decent, with a 12-speaker Fender audio system available on the Execline trim.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered premium features on upper trims, including massage modes for the front seats, a head-up display, night vision, and a 360-degree camera system. The Uconnect system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with the ability to connect two phones simultaneously. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward collision warning. The Summit trims offered additional features like automatic parking and a rear-facing camera for monitoring the second and third rows.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas received top ratings in IIHS crash tests, with 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. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist available on higher trims.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features included driver and passenger knee airbags, trailer sway control, and various driver aids.