Volkswagen Atlas 2024: A significant update

The Volkswagen Atlas has been accumulating successes since its arrival on the market, and that's not surprising. Being part of the Volkswagen Group, it shares features with several other models in the group, including Audi, Porsche, and even Lamborghini. That's why the Atlas offers such refined and sporty driving.

Although it's not a new generation, the Volkswagen Atlas benefits from a significant update for 2024. The entry-level Trendline version has been removed to make way for the new Peak special edition. Two new colors have been added to the Atlas range for 2024: avocado green and pure gray.

The German manufacturer's SUV has undergone significant aesthetic modifications. The front design has been completely revamped with better-defined lighting and a more aggressive bumper, giving the Atlas an even more imposing look. The interior offers a more modern and streamlined style. Volkswagen has even made major changes on the mechanical side with the addition of a new engine to replace the previous ones.

Range and prices

In theory, the Volkswagen Atlas does not cost more than last year, or almost. The only catch is that Volkswagen has eliminated the entry-level Trendline version, which gives us the impression that it is more expensive. However, this doesn't really matter because sales of the model mainly focus on the other versions, and it is highly likely that the new Peak special edition will be much more popular than the Trendline version has been in recent years. Therefore, the starting price for the German manufacturer's SUV in 2024 is $52,045. Next is the Peak edition at $56,045. I must say that it's refreshing to see a special edition that is not necessarily at the top of the range, and that's why this one is likely to be highly appreciated by consumers. Then we have the high-end Highline version at $59,045. Finally, the Execline R-Line version is at the top of the range with a starting price of $62,045.

Comfortline - $52,045

Peak Edition - $56,045

Highline - $59,045

Execline R-Line - $62,045

Category and competition

The Volkswagen Atlas competes in the intermediate three-row SUV segment. This is one of the most competitive categories in the market, as these vehicles must offer the same capabilities as a pickup truck, a minivan, and a utility vehicle all at once. Fortunately, the Atlas plays the game very well with its spacious interior and capabilities.

Rivals: Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, GMC Acadia, Honda Passport, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Santa Fe, Hyundai Palisade, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Kia Sorento, Kia Telluride, Mazda CX-9, Nissan Pathfinder, Subaru Ascent, Toyota Highlander

Design and interior

The biggest aesthetic change in the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas is found at the front. The manufacturer replaced the old headlights that blended with the grille design with better-defined and more aggressive headlights. Furthermore, the grille itself is much more imposing, giving the German manufacturer's SUV a lot of character. The 2024 Atlas benefits from two new colors, pure gray and avocado green, which are likely to be very popular, as this type of color is particularly trendy at the moment.

The interior of the 2024 Atlas is absolutely stunning. In fact, it almost feels like being inside an Audi SUV. The German manufacturer has done an excellent job with the design, and the optional ambient lighting adds a touch of finesse that is not found elsewhere in the category. Additionally, the Atlas features a new 12-inch screen for its multimedia system, along with a digital dashboard.

Technologies

There is no shortage of technologies for a vehicle like the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas. It features two screens for entertainment and media, which are found throughout its range. The majority of important safety technologies are offered as standard, such as lane-keeping assist and parking assistance. Additionally, there are technologies like a head-up display, a premium Harman Kardon audio system, and an optional exterior LED light bar.

Performance

For 2024, the Volkswagen Atlas replaces its two previous engines with a new one. It is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that delivers 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels. The best part is that the towing capacity of the German manufacturer's SUV remains unchanged at 5,000 pounds.

Weak Points

To be honest with you, I didn't really find any flaws with the German manufacturer's SUV for 2024. The only thing that could be criticized is the lack of hybrid or plug-in hybrid versions, while the competition plays this card very well.

Strengths

It is a spectacular and refined vehicle across the board. The Volkswagen Atlas is robust, elegant, and highly capable. Its interior is understated and modern. Moreover, it remains one of the most spacious and accommodating vehicles in its category.

Signature Feature

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas offers a driving experience that is very similar to what you find in prestigious SUVs of similar size. It is a vehicle that offers you a lot for its price.

Final Word

The biggest problem with the Volkswagen Atlas is that it must adhere to its position in the Volkswagen Group hierarchy. It cannot be better than the Audi Q8, just as the Q8 cannot be better than the Porsche Cayenne or the Lamborghini Urus. Nevertheless, the line between the Atlas and the Q8 is very thin, and this is even more true with its latest update, which makes it more sophisticated and modern than ever before. The 2024 Atlas is certainly one of the most interesting vehicles in its category.

Jean-Sébastien Poudrier