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2018 Volkswagen Atlas Video Review

Volkswagen Atlas Review: The Ultimate Family SUV | MotorVero

Volkswagen Atlas: The Definitive Review of VW's Flagship Three-Row SUV

Volkswagen Atlas

Introducing Volkswagen's Family-Focused Powerhouse

The automotive world took notice when Volkswagen unveiled its ambitious three-row SUV, designed specifically to conquer the competitive American family vehicle market. The Volkswagen Atlas represents a strategic shift for the German automaker, combining European engineering with American-sized proportions.

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Key Highlights at a Glance

  • Spacious three-row seating for up to seven passengers
  • Distinctive boxy silhouette with premium styling cues
  • Class-leading cargo capacity behind third row
  • Available V6 power or efficient turbocharged four-cylinder
  • Advanced safety suite standard across all trims

Design Philosophy: Form Meets Function

Volkswagen's design team created a bold statement with the Atlas, blending the brand's signature DNA with American SUV expectations. The upright grille flanked by sharp LED lighting creates an authoritative road presence, while the squared-off rear maximizes interior volume without sacrificing style.

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Exterior Design Elements

The Atlas's profile features:

  • Commanding front fascia with chrome accents
  • Strong character lines along the sides
  • Roof rails for added utility
  • Available 20-inch alloy wheels
  • LED taillights with distinctive lighting signature

Interior Excellence: Where the Atlas Shines

Step inside the Atlas and you're greeted by a cabin that prioritizes space without compromising on premium feel. Volkswagen's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the thoughtful storage solutions, high-quality materials, and intuitive controls.

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Seating Configurations

Seating Option Passenger Capacity Cargo Space (Behind 3rd Row)
7-Passenger 2-2-3 20.6 cu ft
6-Passenger (Captain's Chairs) 2-2-2 20.6 cu ft

Family-Friendly Features

  • 12-way power adjustable front seats with heating/ventilation
  • Available panoramic sunroof
  • Tri-zone automatic climate control
  • Over a dozen cup holders and multiple USB ports
  • Easy-fold second and third row seats
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Performance and Capability

Beneath its family-friendly exterior, the Atlas offers two compelling powertrain options designed to balance performance and efficiency:

Powertrain Options

  • 2.0L Turbocharged 4-cylinder: 235 hp, 258 lb-ft torque, FWD/AWD
  • 3.6L V6: 276 hp, 266 lb-ft torque, FWD/AWD

Both engines pair with a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission.

Towing and Off-Road Capabilities

When properly equipped, the Atlas can tow up to 5,000 pounds - enough for small trailers or watercraft. The available 4Motion AWD system includes multiple driving modes for various conditions:

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  • On-Road (Automatic)
  • Snow
  • Off-Road
  • Custom (SEL Premium trim)

Technology and Safety Innovations

Volkswagen packed the Atlas with cutting-edge technology to keep families connected and protected:

Infotainment Features

  • Standard 6.5-inch touchscreen (upgradable to 8-inch)
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
  • Available Fender premium audio system
  • Wireless phone charging
  • Available digital cockpit display
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Safety Systems

The Atlas earned top safety ratings thanks to its comprehensive suite of driver aids:

  • Forward Collision Warning with Autonomous Emergency Braking
  • Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert
  • Lane Keeping Assist
  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Parking Steering Assistant (high trim levels)


Competitive Landscape: How the Atlas Stacks Up

In the crowded three-row SUV segment, the Atlas differentiates itself through:

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Competitor Price Advantage Space Advantage Feature Advantage
Honda Pilot Atlas offers more standard features at base price Atlas provides more third-row headroom Comparable tech, better warranty
Toyota Highlander Atlas has lower starting MSRP Atlas offers more cargo capacity Highlander has hybrid option
Ford Explorer Similar pricing Explorer has slightly more power Atlas has more premium interior materials

Ownership Experience and Value Proposition

Volkswagen backs the Atlas with competitive ownership perks that enhance its value:

Warranty Coverage

  • 4-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty
  • 6-year/72,000-mile powertrain coverage
  • 2 years of scheduled maintenance included
  • 24-hour roadside assistance
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Resale Value Considerations

While European vehicles traditionally depreciate faster than Japanese counterparts, the Atlas maintains respectable resale value due to:

  • Strong demand for three-row SUVs
  • Volkswagen's improving reliability ratings
  • Generous standard equipment reducing need for expensive options

Expert Recommendations

After extensive evaluation, our automotive experts suggest:

Best Atlas Trim for Most Buyers

The SEL Premium trim hits the sweet spot with:

  • All major safety features included
  • Premium Fender audio system
  • Heated/ventilated front seats
  • Advanced 4Motion AWD system
  • Digital cockpit display

This trim delivers nearly all available features without reaching the price point of luxury competitors.

Ideal Buyer Profile

The Atlas particularly suits:

  • Growing families needing versatile seating
  • Outdoor enthusiasts requiring space for gear
  • Value-conscious buyers wanting premium features
  • Those who prefer German engineering at mainstream prices
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Final Verdict

The Volkswagen Atlas successfully delivers on its promise of providing European sophistication in a package tailored for American families. With its spacious interior, thoughtful features, and confident driving dynamics, it stands as a compelling choice in the three-row SUV segment. While it may lack some of the brand cachet of luxury competitors, it offers similar premium touches at a more accessible price point.

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Motorveroben

Last Updated On Sep, 04-2025

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