Volkswagen Atlas: A Comprehensive Guide to VW’s Premier SUV

The Volkswagen Atlas is a full-size SUV that combines practicality with modern design, making it a popular choice among families and adventure enthusiasts. With its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and robust performance, the Atlas is designed to meet the demands of everyday driving and long-distance travel. The vehicle’s bold exterior styling, characterized by a prominent grille and sleek lines, gives it a distinctive presence on the road. Inside, the Atlas offers a well-appointed cabin with high-quality materials, intuitive technology, and ample legroom across all three rows.
Performance and Engine Options
The Volkswagen Atlas is available with two engine choices, catering to different driving preferences. The standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, providing a balance of power and fuel efficiency. For those seeking more robust performance, the optional 3.6-liter V6 engine generates 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, making it ideal for towing and highway driving. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and responsive gear shifts. The Atlas also offers front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available for enhanced traction in challenging conditions.
Interior and Comfort
The Atlas excels in interior space, offering seating for up to seven passengers across three rows. The cabin is designed with comfort in mind, featuring supportive seats, ample headroom, and a configurable cargo area. Standard features include tri-zone automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies. Higher trims add luxuries such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium audio system. The Atlas also boasts one of the largest cargo capacities in its class, with up to 96.8 cubic feet of space when the rear seats are folded.
Safety and Technology
Volkswagen has equipped the Atlas with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The vehicle also offers adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system for added convenience. On the technology front, the Atlas features an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as available navigation and wireless charging. These features ensure that drivers and passengers stay connected and entertained on the go.
Comparison Table: Volkswagen Atlas vs. Competitors
Feature | Volkswagen Atlas | Honda Pilot | Toyota Highlander |
---|---|---|---|
Starting Price (USD) | $35,000 | $37,000 | $38,000 |
Engine Options | 2.0L Turbo, 3.6L V6 | 3.5L V6 | 2.4L Turbo, 3.5L V6 |
Seating Capacity | 7 | 8 | 7 |
Cargo Space (cu. ft.) | 96.8 | 83.9 | 84.3 |
Towing Capacity (lbs) | 5,000 | 5,000 | 5,000 |
Final Thoughts
The Volkswagen Atlas is a compelling choice for those in need of a spacious, capable, and well-equipped SUV. Its combination of performance, comfort, and advanced features makes it a strong contender in the full-size SUV segment. Whether for family trips or outdoor adventures, the Atlas delivers a reliable and enjoyable driving experience.
References:
Volkswagen Official Website
Honda Official Website
Toyota Official Website