Home > News & Blogs > 2018 Volkswagen Atlas SUV Pricing: Starts at $31,425
2018 Volkswagen Atlas SUV Pricing: Starts at $31,425
2018 Volkswagen Atlas: The Ultimate Family SUV Breakdown
The 2018 Volkswagen Atlas made waves in the three-row SUV market with its spacious interior, German engineering, and competitive pricing. At MotorVero, we've analyzed every trim level, engine option, and package to help you find the perfect configuration for your needs.
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Volkswagen Atlas Pricing Overview
The 2018 Atlas offered five distinct trim levels with prices ranging from $31,425 for the base S model to $49,415 for the fully-loaded SEL Premium. Each version delivered impressive value with standard features that often cost extra in competitors.
Key Price Points:
- Base S Trim: $31,425 (2.0L turbo 4-cylinder, FWD)
- Popular SE Trim: Starting at $34,515
- Technology Package: Adds $2,100 to SE models
- Top-Tier SEL Premium: $49,415 (V6 AWD standard)
Engine Options: 4-Cylinder vs. V6 Performance
Volkswagen offered two engine choices for the 2018 Atlas, each catering to different driving priorities:
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2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder
- 235 horsepower @ 4,500 rpm
- 258 lb-ft of torque @ 1,600 rpm
- Front-wheel drive only
- EPA-estimated 22 mpg combined
- Best for: Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel economy
3.6L V6 Engine
- 276 horsepower @ 6,200 rpm
- 266 lb-ft of torque @ 2,750 rpm
- Available with FWD or 4Motion AWD
- EPA-estimated 19 mpg combined (FWD)
- Best for: Those needing towing capacity or all-weather capability
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Detailed Trim Level Breakdown
| Trim | Starting Price | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | $31,425 | 18" wheels, LED lighting, 6.5" touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Value-focused shoppers |
| SE | $34,515 | Leatherette seats, heated fronts, blind spot monitoring, 8" display | Families wanting premium touches |
| SE w/Technology | $36,615 | Forward collision warning, adaptive cruise, power liftgate | Safety-conscious drivers |
| SEL | $40,085 | Panoramic moonroof, memory seats, parking sensors, tow hitch | Luxury seekers on a budget |
| SEL Premium | $49,415 | Digital cockpit, 360 cam, ventilated seats, premium audio | Those wanting top-tier features |
Standout Features by Trim Level
S Launch Edition (Limited Availability)
Early buyers could opt for the special S Launch Edition starting at $34,425. This V6-only model included:
- Standard moonroof (unavailable on base S)
- Upgraded 8-inch touchscreen
- Unique badging
- Available with either FWD or 4Motion AWD
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SE With Technology Package
The $36,615 SE With Technology trim introduced Volkswagen's IQ.DRIVE suite of advanced safety features:
- Forward Collision Warning with Autonomous Emergency Braking
- Pedestrian Monitoring
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist
Premium Options & Packages
Volkswagen offered several compelling packages to customize the Atlas experience:
Second-Row Captain's Chairs ($625)
Replaced the standard bench seat with two individual chairs featuring:
- Adjustable reclining function
- Easier third-row access
- Armrests with cup holders
- Available on SE and higher trims
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R-Line Package ($1,960)
Added sporty styling cues including:
- Unique front and rear bumpers
- R-Line badging
- Special interior trim
- Available for SE and SEL trims
20-Inch Wheel Upgrades
- SEL: Black 20" wheels ($995)
- SEL Premium: 20" alloy wheels ($235 upgrade)
Why the 2018 Atlas Stands Out
The Volkswagen Atlas distinguished itself in the competitive three-row SUV segment with several advantages:
Class-Leading Interior Space
With 96.8 cubic feet of passenger volume and 153.7 cubic feet with seats folded, the Atlas offered more room than many competitors:
- Best-in-class third-row legroom (33.7 inches)
- 20 cup holders and multiple storage compartments
- Standard tri-zone climate control (quad-zone available)
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Smart Technology Integration
Volkswagen packed the Atlas with user-friendly tech:
- Standard App-Connect smartphone integration
- Available 12.3-inch Digital Cockpit display
- Fender Premium Audio with 480 watts and 12 speakers
- Available wireless charging pad
MotorVero's Buying Recommendations
Best Value Pick: SE With Technology
Priced around $37,000 with V6 FWD, this trim delivers:
- Comprehensive safety suite
- Power liftgate convenience
- Leatherette seating surfaces
- All essential tech features
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Premium Choice: SEL V6 4Motion
At approximately $43,600, buyers get:
- Standard AWD capability
- Panoramic sunroof
- Memory driver's seat
- Factory-installed tow hitch
Competitive Comparison
The 2018 Atlas held its own against key rivals:
- vs. Honda Pilot: More third-row space, lower starting price
- vs. Toyota Highlander: More powerful base engine, better tech interface
- vs. Ford Explorer: Smoother ride quality, superior interior materials
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Final Thoughts
The 2018 Volkswagen Atlas represented an excellent value in the three-row SUV segment, particularly for families needing maximum interior space without luxury-brand pricing. Its thoughtful combination of German engineering, flexible configurations, and competitive pricing made it one of MotorVero's top-rated family vehicles of its model year.
Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency with the turbo four-cylinder or capability with the V6 and 4Motion AWD, the Atlas offered compelling options across its trim range. The available technology and safety features, especially in SE With Technology and higher trims, provided peace of mind for family transportation.
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Last Updated On Aug, 30-2025