2024 VW Atlas

2024 VW Atlas Review

Three-row SUVs, exemplified by the Volkswagen Atlas, cater to the diverse needs of both large and small families, offering a combination of spaciousness, comfort, and robust towing capabilities without the uncool sliding doors associated with minivans. The seven-passenger Atlas excels in accommodating adults comfortably, primarily due to its generously proportioned third row. When you fold down the second and third-row seats, the Atlas's expansive interior transforms into a practical and versatile cargo-hauling solution. Under the hood, a 269-horsepower turbocharged inline-four engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. While front-wheel drive is the standard configuration, all-wheel drive is also available as an optional feature. Competing against more sophisticated rivals like the Kia Telluride, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, and Mazda CX-90, the Volkswagen Atlas consistently improves with each update, making it an even more appealing choice in the three-row SUV segment.

Any Updates in 2024 VW Atlas Model?

• Stylish makeover for the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas.

• Redesigned front fascia and new headlights for a fresh look.

• New wheel designs across the entire lineup, including 21-inch wheels for R-Line models.

• Transition from a 276-hp V-6 to a 269-hp turbocharged inline-four engine.

• Max towing capacity remains at 5000 pounds, with an eight-speed transmission and standard front-wheel drive.

• All-wheel drive remains an optional feature.

• Upgraded interior with new upscale trim elements.

• Standard features now include a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats.

• Impressive 12.0-inch infotainment screen, a substantial improvement from the previous 8.0-inch unit.

• Introduction of the Atlas Peak Edition appearance package with exclusive paint colors and a rugged aesthetic.

2024 VW Atlas Prices

• SE: $39,075

• SE with Technology: $43,015

• Peak Edition SE with Technology: $47,905

• SEL: $49,795

• Peak Edition SEL: $51,785

• SEL Premium R-Line: $53,805

Pinkywheels Recommended Model:

• Atlas SE with Technology for versatility and enhanced features.

• Add 4Motion, Second-row captain's chairs and the tow hitch Features to unlock the Atlas's maximum towing capacity of 5000 pounds.

2024 VW Atlas Exterior

Right off the bat, the shape. I like the overall size of the Atlas and I like the bold design. It really brings a lot of clean, bold German styling to the midsize segment.

At the front, where you're going to see a bulk of the change. We have all-new LED headlights, projector beam LED headlights. I like the way they double-stacked it in there. It's almost like a double-stuffed Oreo cookie. We have LED turn signals and LED daytime running lamps. One of the things that I'm going to point out is how the daytime running lamp now runs across, but we'll get more to what's in the center in The Sweet Spot in a second.

As we come around the bend, you're going to notice some big, ginormous things on our Atlas. You're going to have this machined aluminum wheel. This is a 21-inch wheel, so larger wheels than what you could get on a Highlander. Highlander remembers 20-inch wheels and the tire size 265 on the width, 45-series sidewall.

The side of the vehicle is the same as the previous model year. You have that nice line that flows into the side badging, and I'm glad that they put this trim here. It really kind of brings a little bit of extra pizzazz to the door panel to the fender.

VW Atlas Dimensions

Wheelbase: 117.3 in
Length: 200.7in
Width: 78.3 in
Height: 70.4 in
Passenger Volume: 153 ft3
Cargo Volume: 174 ft3
Curb Weight: 4630 lb

VW Atlas Interior, Infotainment and Technology

• Family-friendly interior space with an abundance of cupholders.

• Third row spacious enough for full-size adults.

• Simplistic and practical interior design (improved cabin materials for 2024).

• Accommodates a variety of suburban family needs with ample storage nooks.

• Impressive luggage capacity

• 12.0-inch infotainment touchscreen.

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability.

• Six-speaker sound system.

• Wireless phone charging.

• Six USB-C ports with 45 watts of charging power.

VW Atlas Engine and Performance

• Every Atlas now features a 269-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 273 pound-feet of torque.

• 2024 VW Atlas has a 8-speed automatic transmission and offers the choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive.

• The older Atlas models offered a 235-hp four-cylinder and a 276-hp V-6, but these have been replaced.

• With the new powertrain, there's a noticeable improvement in throttle response, and the retuned transmission adds a bit more vigor to the engine.

VW Atlas 0-60 mph

(SEL Premium R-Line 4Motion)

• 2024 VW Atlas accelerated to 60 mph in just 7.3 seconds, outperforming the 2018 V-6-powered version.

VW Atlas Handling

• The Atlas demonstrates responsive steering and handles corners reasonably well, albeit with a touch of clumsiness when pushed hard.

• The turbocharged engine offers ample torque, and the transmission operates smoothly.

• smooth ride quality with excellent seat comfort.

• It maintains composure on the highway and displays agility in urban settings, with a generally smooth ride that easily handles most road imperfections.

• The overall driving experience is comfortable and on par with other three-row crossovers in the market.

VW Atlas Towing Capacity

• 5000 Pounds

VW Fuel Economy

• EPA estimates: Front-wheel drive Atlas: 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway.

• All-wheel drive models: 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway (most models).

• Peak Edition trims: 18 mpg city, 24 mpg highway.

• All-wheel-drive Atlas achieved 25 mpg on our 75-mph highway fuel economy test.

• Detailed fuel economy information is available on the EPA's website.

2024 VW Atlas Models

Available Trims:

• VW Atlas SE

• Standard Features:

• 18-inch alloy wheels

• Adaptive LED headlights

• Heated exterior mirrors

• Keyless entry and ignition

• Three-zone automatic climate control

• Heated steering wheel

• Power-adjustable driver's seat

• Synthetic leather upholstery

• Heated and ventilated front seats

• 60/40-split second-row bench seat and 50/50-split third-row bench

• Technology and Infotainment:

• Digital instrument cluster

• 12-inch touchscreen

• USB ports in all three rows

• Six-speaker audio system

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration (both with wireless connectivity)

• Wireless smartphone charging pad

• Voice controls

• Standard Advanced Driver Aids:

• Adaptive cruise control

• Forward collision warning with automatic braking

• Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning

• Blind-spot intervention

• Lane keeping system

• VW Atlas SE with Technology

• (Includes SE Features and Adds):

• 20-inch wheels

• Front and rear LED light bars

• Illuminated VW badges

• Hands-free power liftgate

• Remote engine start

• Manual rear window sunshades

• 115-volt AC outlet in the 2nd row

• Towing hitch with 5,000-pound towing capacity

• Front and rear parking sensors

• Optional panoramic sunroof

• VW Atlas Peak Edition SE with Technology

• (Includes SE with Technology Features and Adds):

• 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires

• Black exterior trim

• Panoramic sunroof

• Restyled front and rear bumpers

• Adjustable ambient cabin lighting

• VW Atlas SEL

• (Includes SE with Technology Features and Adds):

• Upgraded headlights

• Panoramic sunroof

• Driver's seat memory settings

• Power-adjustable passenger seat

• Heated second-row seats

• Leather upholstery

• Adjustable ambient cabin lighting

• Integrated navigation system

• Safe exit warning

• Head-up display

• VW Atlas Peak Edition SEL

• (Includes SEL Features and Adds):

• 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires

• Black-painted exterior trim

• Synthetic leather upholstery

• VW Atlas SEL Premium R-Line

• (Includes SEL Features and Adds):

• 21-inch wheels

• Leather-wrapped steering wheel

• Seats with diamond-pattern inserts

• 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system

• Automated parking system

• 360-degree camera

VW Atlas Safety Features

1. Forward-Facing Camera: An added forward-facing camera assists with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and safety features like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control.

2. Adaptive Cruise Control: The 2024 Atlas is likely to feature adaptive cruise control, which helps maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle in front. This technology can automatically adjust the vehicle's speed to match traffic flow.

3. Lane Keeping Assist: The Atlas probably comes with lane-keeping assist, which helps prevent unintentional lane departures by gently steering the vehicle back into its lane if it starts to drift.

4. Blind-Spot Monitoring: Many modern vehicles, including SUVs like the VW Atlas, come with blind-spot monitoring systems. These use sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spots and provide warnings to help avoid potential collisions.

5. Rearview Camera: A rearview camera assists with parking and reversing. It's a standard feature in most vehicles and enhances safety by providing a clear view of the area behind the car.

6. Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (4Motion): The VW Atlas is equipped with 4Motion, Volkswagen's all-wheel-drive system. All-wheel drive provides enhanced traction and control in various road conditions, increasing stability and safety.

7. Safety Belt System: The Atlas is equipped with a comprehensive safety belt system, which includes seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters for added protection in the event of a collision.

8. Advanced Airbags: Modern vehicles typically come with advanced airbag systems, including front airbags, side-impact airbags, and side curtain airbags. These are designed to protect passengers in case of a collision.

9. Pedestrian Detection: Many modern vehicles are equipped with pedestrian detection systems that use sensors to identify pedestrians and other obstacles in the vehicle's path. This technology can provide warnings and, in some cases, even automatically apply the brakes.

VW Atlas Warranty

• Limited warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles.

• Powertrain warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles.

• Complimentary maintenance: 2 years or 20,000 miles.

VW Atlas Pros and Cons

Pros of the 2024 VW Atlas:

1. Spacious Interior: The VW Atlas offers ample room for passengers in all three rows, making it a great choice for families.

2. Versatile Cargo Space: With the ability to fold down both the second and third-row seats, the Atlas provides a generous amount of cargo space, enhancing its practicality for various needs.

3. Fresh Exterior Design: The 2024 model boasts a stylish makeover with redesigned front fascia, new headlights, and a choice of wheel designs, providing a refreshed and modern look.

4. Improved Powertrain: The transition from a V-6 engine to a 269-horsepower turbocharged inline-four engine offers responsive performance and better throttle response.

5. Upgraded Technology: The Atlas features a substantial 12.0-inch infotainment screen and new standard features like a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats.

Cons of the 2024 VW Atlas:

1. Fuel Economy: While the Atlas performs well in terms of power and capability, its fuel economy, especially with all-wheel drive models, might not be as efficient as some competitors.

2. Handling: The Atlas offers a comfortable ride, but it can feel somewhat clumsy when pushed hard in corners, making it less sporty than some rivals.

3. Pricing: The higher trims of the Atlas, especially the SEL Premium R-Line, can get relatively expensive, potentially leading to a higher cost of ownership.

4. Adaptive Cruise Control: Although it has adaptive cruise control, it might not be as advanced or refined as some of the competition's systems.

5. Fuel Efficiency: While the Atlas's fuel economy has improved, it may not be the best choice for those prioritizing eco-friendliness.

Read Next: 2024 VW Tiguan Review

2024 VW Atlas FAQs

1. What are the key updates in the 2024 VW Atlas model?

· The 2024 VW Atlas features a stylish makeover with a redesigned front fascia and new headlights. It transitions to a 269-horsepower turbocharged inline-four engine, maintains a 5000-pound towing capacity, and offers an impressive 12.0-inch infotainment screen.

2. How many passengers can the 2024 VW Atlas accommodate?

· The 2024 VW Atlas can accommodate seven passengers, making it a spacious three-row SUV.

3. What are the engine and transmission options available for the 2024 VW Atlas?

· The 2024 VW Atlas comes with a 269-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offers both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options.

4. Is all-wheel drive an option for the 2024 VW Atlas?

· Yes, all-wheel drive (AWD) is available as an optional feature for the 2024 VW Atlas.

5. What is the towing capacity of the 2024 VW Atlas?

· The 2024 VW Atlas has a maximum towing capacity of 5000 pounds.

6. What exterior design changes are notable in the 2024 VW Atlas?

· Notable exterior changes include new LED headlights, distinctive wheel designs, and a bold design that maintains clean German styling.

7. What are the interior and technology features of the 2024 VW Atlas?

· The interior offers a family-friendly design with a 12.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, and six USB-C ports. It also includes features like wireless phone charging and ample storage.

8. How does the 2024 VW Atlas perform in terms of acceleration and handling?

· The 2024 VW Atlas accelerates to 60 mph in just 7.3 seconds and offers responsive steering. It handles corners reasonably well and provides a smooth ride.

9. What safety features are included in the 2024 VW Atlas?

· Safety features include a forward-facing camera, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rearview camera, intelligent all-wheel drive (4Motion), safety belt systems, advanced airbags, and pedestrian detection.

10.What is the pricing range and recommended trim for the 2024 VW Atlas?

· The pricing for the 2024 VW Atlas starts with the SE model at $39,075 and goes up to the SEL Premium R-Line at $53,805. A recommended model is the Atlas SE with Technology, and you can unlock the maximum towing capacity by adding 4Motion, second-row captain's chairs, and a tow hitch.