Volkswagen Atlas: A Comprehensive Review of the Spacious and Versatile SUV
The Volkswagen Atlas is a midsize SUV designed for families and adventure seekers who prioritize space, comfort, and versatility. Since its debut, the Atlas has carved a niche in the competitive SUV market with its three-row seating, robust engine options, and advanced technology features. Whether navigating city streets or embarking on long road trips, the Atlas delivers a balanced driving experience with ample cargo room and passenger comfort.
Introduced in 2018, the Volkswagen Atlas quickly gained popularity for its spacious interior, accommodating up to seven passengers with ease. The 2025 model continues this legacy, offering refined styling, updated tech, and enhanced safety features.
This article explores the key aspects of the Volkswagen Atlas, including its performance, interior features, safety ratings, and how it compares to competitors in its class. By the end, readers will have a thorough understanding of what makes the Atlas a standout choice in the midsize SUV segment.
The Volkswagen Atlas is a midsize SUV that combines practicality with modern design, making it a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With its spacious three-row seating, powerful engine options, and advanced technology, the Atlas is designed to meet the demands of daily commutes and weekend adventures alike. The 2025 model builds on its predecessors with updated features and improved performance, ensuring it remains competitive in a crowded market.
Performance and Engine Options
The Volkswagen Atlas offers two engine choices for the 2025 model year. The base engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that delivers 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, the optional 3.6-liter V6 engine produces 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive shifts.
Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available for enhanced traction in challenging weather conditions. The Atlas handles well for its size, with a comfortable ride quality that absorbs road imperfections. While it isn’t the most agile SUV in its class, it excels in providing a stable and confident driving experience.
Interior and Cargo Space
One of the Atlas’s standout features is its spacious interior. The three-row configuration can accommodate up to seven passengers, with ample legroom in the first and second rows. The third row is suitable for children or shorter adults, making it ideal for families. High-quality materials and thoughtful design elements create a premium feel, even in the base trim.
Cargo space is another strong point. Behind the third row, the Atlas offers 20.6 cubic feet of storage, which expands to 55.5 cubic feet with the third row folded and 96.8 cubic feet with both rear rows down. This flexibility makes it easy to transport large items, from groceries to camping gear.
Technology and Safety Features
The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas comes equipped with a host of tech features to enhance convenience and entertainment. The standard infotainment system includes an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims offer a larger 10.25-inch display, wireless charging, and a premium audio system.
Safety is a priority, with standard features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Available upgrades include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera system. These features contribute to the Atlas’s strong safety ratings, making it a reliable choice for families.
Comparison Table: Volkswagen Atlas vs. Competitors
| Feature | Volkswagen Atlas | Honda Pilot | Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price (USD) | $35,000 | $37,000 | $36,000 |
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbo, 3.6L V6 | 3.5L V6 | 2.4L Turbo, Hybrid |
| Max Cargo Space (cu ft) | 96.8 | 83.9 | 84.3 |
| Infotainment Screen | 8-inch (10.25-inch optional) | 9-inch | 8-inch (12.3-inch optional) |
| Safety Ratings | 5-Star NHTSA | 5-Star NHTSA | 5-Star NHTSA |
Final Thoughts
The Volkswagen Atlas is a well-rounded SUV that excels in space, comfort, and versatility. Its robust engine options, advanced tech, and strong safety features make it a compelling choice for families. While it faces stiff competition from the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, the Atlas holds its own with a spacious interior and competitive pricing. For those in need of a reliable and roomy SUV, the Volkswagen Atlas is certainly worth considering.
References:
Volkswagen Official Website
NHTSA Safety Ratings
Car and Driver Reviews
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