Volkswagen has announced a series of changes to its lineup for the 2021 model year in the United States.
Starting with the Arteon, the model receives a minor facelift with styling changes inside and out.
Full details will be announced closer to launch, but Volkswagen has previously said the US-spec model will have a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) and 258 lb-ft (349 Nm) of torque. The Arteon will also have a simplified lineup that consists of SE, SEL R-Line and SEL Premium R-Line variants.
Moving on, the 2021 Atlas has minor styling changes and will offer a 2.0-liter four-engine on top trims and in conjunction with all-wheel drive. The engine produces 235 hp (175 kW / 238 PS) and 258 lb-ft (349 Nm) of torque, and is significantly more fuel efficient than the 3.6-liter VR6 which used to come standard on higher-end trims.
The Atlas will also receive a mid-year update which will see the installation of a new MIB3 infotainment system on all trims except the base S variant. The system features enhanced voice recognition technology, wireless App-Connect and an illuminated USB-C port. Other highlights include an upgraded navigation system with “simplified and enhanced map designs, intuitive route options, quick access to frequently visited locations, and advanced route management.” It also supports SiriusXM with 360L which is a combination of both satellite and streaming radio.
Last but not least, Atlas SEL and SEL Premium trims will have Travel Assist and Emergency Assist. Travel Assist is a semi-autonomous driving system that uses the adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist systems to accelerate, brake and steer the vehicle at speeds up to 95 mph (153 km/h).
Emergency Assist, on the other hand, is a safety feature that can bring the vehicle to halt if the driver is incapacitated. It monitors driver input and steering wheel hand placement to ensure people are paying attention. If no inputs are detected, the system will provide audible and visual warnings as well as “brake jerks” to get a driver’s attention. If the driver fails to respond, the system will slowly bring the vehicle to a halt.
Moving on, the 2021 Golf carries over and is available in a single trim that features heated leatherette front seats, a panoramic sunroof and 16-inch alloy wheels. The model also has heated washer nozzles and a keyless access system with a push-button ignition.
The Golf GTI is available in three trims, but 2021 will be the “seventh generation’s final model year.” Despite living on borrowed time, the hatchback gains gloss black mirrors and a gloss black rear spoiler. The SE and Autobahn trims also sport the new MIB3 infotainment system as well as new 18-inch alloy wheels.
The Jetta SEL and SEL Premium trims gain the new MIB3 infotainment system and so does the Jetta GLI Autobahn. However, it appears everything else carries over.
The Passat features more meaningful changes as all 2021 models now come equipped with adaptive cruise control and a a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Furthermore, SE trims gain a sunroof and larger 18-inch alloy wheels. Lastly, R-Line trims have an adaptive front lighting system, a Fender premium audio system and a Discover Media infotainment system with GPS navigation.
Finally, the 2021 Tiguan has restyled 17-inch alloy wheels on S and SE trims. The SE variant also gains a new MIB3 infotainment system as well as a newly standard adaptive cruise control system with a stop and go. Lastly, the SEL Premium R-Line now has has a standard power passenger seat.
Of course, the facelifted Tiguan will arrive in the fall of 2021 as a 2022 model.