History/Overview
In 2018, the Volkswagen Atlas shouldered the task of helping to repair the brand’s reputation in the wake of the diesel emissions scandal, becoming VW’s largest-ever vehicle and its first purpose-built three-row SUV. In 2020, VW added a smaller, two-row Cross Sport variant, which is covered in a separate buyer’s guide entry.
What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year
This year, VW adds a few new standard features to each of the Atlas’s trims: Trendline gets LED trunk lighting; Comfortline gains a cargo cover and upgraded digital gauges; Highline adds anodized roof rails; and Execline trim gains diamond-stitched upholstery.
Available Trims
VW offers the Atlas in Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, and Execline trim levels. Trendline and Comfortline start with a 2.0L turbo four-cylinder engine, and the latter can be optioned with a 3.6L V6 that’s standard in the higher trims. All-wheel drive and an eight-speed transmission are standard.
Standard Features
Trendline trim comes with 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, a 6.5-inch touchscreen, manual A/C, six-speaker audio, an 8.0-inch digital driver display, and heated front seats.
Comfortline adds an 8.0-inch touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, three-zone A/C, passive keyless entry, front and rear parking sensors, and a power tailgate. There’s also a larger gauge display, wireless phone charging, a power driver’s seat, rear sunshades, leatherette seating, adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and emergency assist.
Highline models gain 20-inch wheels, adaptive headlights, a panoramic roof, hands-free tailgate, and navigation. You also get a power passenger seat, heated steering wheel/rear seats, ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, leather upholstery, cornering lights, and road sign recognition.
Execline’s additions are 21-inch wheels, 360-degree cameras, power-folding side mirrors with reverse tilt, front and rear park assist, diamond-stitched leather, and automatic high beams.
Key Options
In Highline and Execline, the sole option is a set of second-row captain’s chairs.
Fuel Economy
Volkswagen’s fuel consumption estimates start at 11.8/9.8 L/100 km (city/highway) for a 2.0L model with AWD. The V6/AWD combo is rated for 13.4/10.1 L/100 km.
Competition
You can cross-shop the Atlas against the Toyota Highlander, Chevrolet Traverse, Ford Explorer, Buick Enclave, Dodge Durango, Hyundai Palisade, Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, and Mazda CX-9.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
