2021 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

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. These changes added 6 centimetres to its length, giving it a more extroverted appearance compared to the previous model. The R-Line trim package further enhanced its sporty look with unique bumpers and side skirts. Despite these cosmetic updates, the Atlas retained its MQB platform, shared with other VW models like the Jetta and Golf. The interior followed a minimalist approach, with a standard seven-seat configuration and available second-row captain’s chairs on higher trims. However, the material quality was below average, with cheap-feeling plastics and faux wood and metal trim.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L, maintained Jeep's design traditions while offering a fresh look. It featured a forward-leaning grille, trapezoidal wheel arches, and a black roof option. Inside, the Grand Cherokee mirrored the Grand Cherokee L, with a basic yet quality interior in the Laredo trim and luxurious features in the Summit Reserve trim. The Summit Reserve boasted premium leather seats, a high-end audio system, and a panoramic sunroof. The gloss black finish on some controls in higher trims was prone to reflections, but overall, the Grand Cherokee offered a satisfying blend of style, comfort, and purpose.

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 hp and 266 lb-ft. 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 rough shifts and truck-like handling. The Atlas had a towing capacity of 2,267 kilograms with the VR6 engine, but its fuel efficiency was unimpressive, 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 offered a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine with 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, and a 5.7-litre V8 engine with 357 hp and 390 lb-ft. The V6 had a towing capacity of 2,812 kilograms, while the V8 could tow up to 3,265 kg. Three 4WD systems were available, with Quadra-Drive II offering the most off-road capability. The Grand Cherokee's fuel consumption ranged from 11.3 L/100 km with the V6 to 14.1 L/100 km with the V8. The Trailhawk trim excelled in off-road conditions, while the Grand Cherokee's ride and handling were more appealing than the larger Grand Cherokee L.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas offered average passenger and cargo space for its segment, with 2,741 litres behind the front seats and 583 litres with all seats up. It provided more third-row legroom than most competitors but sacrificed second-row legroom. The second-row bench seat was uncomfortable, with thin cushions. The Atlas featured a driver-focused layout with easy-to-reach controls, up to five USB ports, and a wireless charging pad. It had a tall driving position but limited forward visibility. Parking sensors and active park assist were available on higher trims.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided comfort for the driver and front passenger, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel standard in Canada. Higher trims offered additional features like ventilated seats and massagers. Visibility was improved, especially for off-roading, and the available panoramic sunroof added an airy feel. Rear-seat room was tight for adults, and the Grand Cherokee L offered more legroom. The two-row Grand Cherokee had 1,067 litres of cargo space behind the back seat and 2,004 litres with the back seat folded.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas came with Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The base trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while other models featured an 8-inch screen with satellite radio. Higher trims offered Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit, replacing analog gauges with a 10.3-inch digital display. The Atlas was set to receive the MIBIII infotainment system later in the model year, with improved voice recognition and navigation. The base audio system was decent, with a 12-speaker Fender audio system available on the Execline trim.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, featuring a head-up display, Night Vision system, and multiple touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates. Most trims had an 8.4-inch touchscreen, with a 10.1-inch screen available on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Amazon Alexa integration. The Grand Cherokee also offered a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system and a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment 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. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist available on higher trims. The Atlas was set to receive more advanced driver aids later in the model year.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured an impressive collection of advanced driver assistance systems, with a structure composed of aluminum and high-strength steel. Standard safety features included blind spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and full-speed forward collision warning. Active Driving Assist provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance, with a hands-free version coming in 2022. The Grand Cherokee's crash-test performance remained to be seen, but its safety features were technologically advanced.