The Great Mixer

  Overview When you close your eyes and think of a Jeep, it's likely that the  rough-and-tumble Wrangler  comes to mind, but the Grand Cherokee is every bit as important to the success of the famed off-road brand in terms of sales. Its appeal is bolstered by the fact that it pairs impressive off-road capability with on-road refinement; offers lots of available luxury appointments and features; and has the rugged, outdoorsy look Jeep buyers love. For the 2021 model year, Jeep launched a new generation of the Grand Cherokee but offered the new model only as a three-row variant alongside the previous-generation two-row GC. For the 2022 model year, the Grand Cherokee sheds the old-gen model with the introduction of a two-row body style riding atop the new architecture. What's New for 2022? The two-row Grand Cherokee transitions to the modernized design of the three-row L variant that launched for 2021. Pricing and Which One to Buy Pricing and options haven't been released, so...

Overview The 2021 Honda Pilot is a trendy alternative to a minivan, but its third row isn't as roomy and it's hardly more stylish. Still, this SUV boasts an available all-wheel-drive system, lofty seating height, and a fair amount of ground clearance—traits that many crossover shoppers desire. This Honda also has a speedy and fuel-efficient V-6 power-train that doesn't disappoint. However, those looking for a gratifying driving experience may want to look elsewhere. The Pilot does provide a cavernous cabin, with ample cargo space and small-item storage, and its host of standard driver assists and popular infotainment features help it compete with rivals such as the Volkswagen Atlas and Toyota Highlander. Although the 2021 Pilot isn't the snazziest mid-size crossover out there, it's versatile and inoffensive enough to appeal to a wide range of people. What's New for 2021? For the 2021 Pilot lineup, Honda added a new Special Edition model and made the nine-sp...

  Overview The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas has the boxy appearance, cavernous interior, and vast practicality that have defined SUVs for decades. It's also one of the biggest mid-size crossovers, with a giant footprint that gives way to three spacious rows of seating. VW apparently wanted the Atlas to look and feel like a hospital room, but it offset that sterile aesthetic with loads of desirable features. A pair of steady albeit staid engines provide motivation with either the front- or all-wheel-drive SUV. And the 2021 boasts an array of standard driver assists and confident handling traits, but don't expect the Atlas to be as exciting or sophisticated as this segment's best. What's New for 2021? VW refreshes the 2021 Atlas with new front and rear fascias that increase the SUV's overall length by almost three inches. A more attractive three-bar grille graces the front end, as do revised headlights that now feature standard LED elements. Models with the R-Line option com...

  Overview The field of compact luxury crossovers is an eclectic mix of fancy and sporty, and the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-class is more of the former than the latter. While Mercedes does offer two higher-performance versions courtesy of the brand's AMG subdivision, the mainstream model is more focused on style and refinement. Of course, those who think those traits are alluring but want something more fashion-forward can opt for the sloped-back GLC-class coupe, reviewed separately. Regardless of body style, the GLCs are motivated by a turbocharged four-cylinder, and it makes this SUV surprisingly quick. The squareback Benz also includes a plug-in-hybrid (PHEV) model that has higher fuel-economy estimates than its PHEV rivals. The 2021 GLC-class isn't as fun to drive as its sportier peers, but it is definitely one of the more luxurious options in its class. What's New for 2021? For 2021, Mercedes gifts the GLC lineup with more standard features and more ...

  Overview As the S-class of Benz's SUVs, the 2021 Mercedes GLS-class aims to deliver an undeniably upscale experience, and it succeeds. This large three-row SUV has room for the whole family and pampers everyone with its tech-rich cabin, comfortable ride, and fancy interior materials. Buyers can choose from either a 362-hp turbocharged inline-six or a 483-hp twin-turbo V-8, both of which benefit from a hybrid-assistance system. Despite that technology, neither power-train provides very impressive fuel efficiency, but at least the GLS's EPA ratings are in line with those of rival SUVs such as the Land Rover Range Rover and the Lincoln Navigator. All-wheel drive comes standard, as does an air suspension, but Mercedes offers a pothole-sensing upgrade that also increases ground clearance. What's New for 2021? The GLS-class was new last year, so 2021 models see only a few changes. Four-zone automatic climate control, ventilated seats, and 20-inch alum...