Preview: 2027 Volkswagen Atlas Gets More Tech and More HP, Burns Less Fuel

Since its introduction in 2018, the Atlas has become one of Volkswagen’s most important vehicles in North America. A big (even for its segment) SUV for families who want lots of space and German quality, almost 100,000 have been sold in Canada since its introduction and it’s finally time for a new one.

Ahead of the New York International Auto Show, Volkswagen has taken the wraps off the second-generation Atlas and the automaker has decided to spiff it up a little with new looks and updated tech, but leave what worked (the hulking scale of the model) alone.

If it Ain’t Broke...

For 2027, the Atlas grows so modestly that even VW says it’s basically the same size as the first-gen model. Although it does grow a little in overall length (less than an inch) that amounts to nearly no added space inside. As a result, it remains one of the most spacious three-row SUVs in its segment, but does not gain on its rivals.

Under the hood, it’s much the same story. A familiar 2.0L, four-cylinder turbocharged engine motivates the 2027 Atlas. While it gains 13 hp (for a total of 282 hp), it will now have to make do with 15 fewer lb-ft of torque (or a total of 252 lb-ft). The trade-off comes at the cost of precisely zero kg of towing capacity — as with the first-gen Atlas, the second-gen model will be able to tow up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs).

Volkswagen promises, though, that the updated engine will deliver slightly ameliorated fuel economy, though. Final numbers are still being calculated, but the outgoing Atlas burns 10.7 L/100 km in combined driving, so it should be a bit better than that. An eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive will be standard across the lineup for 2027.

Up to Date Tech for Growing Families

The big improvement comes in the form of a new interior, which will be more tech-forward than ever. All trim levels come with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. In the base model, that’s paired to a reasonable 12.9-inch touchscreen. In every other model, it’s paired to a sizable 15-inch touchscreen.

Front row occupants will benefit from twin wireless phone chargers, and seven USB-C ports are scattered throughout the cabin. A nine-speaker audio system is standard, while a 14-speaker system from Harman Kardon is available on the two top trims.

All 2027 Atlases will be equipped with a 12-way adjustable driver’s seat and upper trim levels will get additional thigh support and massage functionality. Also available are second-row captain’s chairs that are heated and ventilated.

That’s part of a suite of improvements aimed at making the second-generation Atlas more family-friendly. In addition to the cooling seats, air vents have been installed in the B pillars, while a power liftgate, rear sunshades, auto-dimming side mirrors, latch lights, park distance control are all standard. Volkswagen has also moved the gear shift to the steering wheel to create more space on the centre console, where a Tiguan-style knob has been added, which controls different components based on contect.

Fresh Design

On an aesthetic level, Volkswagen has focused on making the second-generation Atlas more premium-feeling. The company has achieved that by using standard soft-touch materials and open-pore wood trim, in addition to (optionally) leather upholstery. Three interior colour themes will be available for 2027, Mistral (pictured), Soul Black, and Garnet Red.

To make the cabin even more colourful, the new Atlas will be available with 10-colour ambient lighting. Higher trim models will come with 30-colour ambient lighting that can create “atmospheres,” which coordinate the ambient lighting and the sound system to create a holistic experience that incorporates both the standard “loop line” that illuminates the front of the cabin, and the optional trim that allows swirls of light to poke through the décor on the dash.

Outside, the second-generation Atlas looks familiar, but up to date, with a more up-right profile and a more pronounced rear spoiler that lines up squarely with the rear bumper. Strong fenders and side sills help create visual intrigue on the big VW. At the front and back, cross-body illumination gives the SUV a more modern look, signal animations make full use of the LED daytime running lights.

Three new exterior paint colours join the palette for 2027: Blackberry, Boreal Green, and Ascot Grey. New wheel options, ranging from 18 to 21 inches in diameter, will also be on offer for 2027.

More details, such as Canadian pricing and fuel economy figures, will be made available closer to the 2027 Volkswagen Atlas’s on-sale date, in fall 2026.