Volkswagen Atlas Overview

If you’re in the market for a reliable midsize SUV with space and capability, the Volkswagen Atlas should be on your shortlist. Few three-row SUVs offer a third-row seat large enough for adult passengers yet still have plenty of cargo space to spare. Two capable powertrain options offer efficient driving and impressive towing. In addition, the Atlas’ tech-laden cabin has all the latest features you crave. Some buyers might find it challenging to choose a suitable model from Atlas’ five trim levels, so we had our SUV experts break them down for you.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas: Trim Levels and Pricing

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Volkswagen’s base Atlas model, SE, starts with an MSRP of $35,150 and comes nicely equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, proximity keyless entry and ignition, power rear liftgate, leatherette upholstery, and heated front seats. In-vehicle tech includes Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit on an 8-inch display, plus driver-assist systems like forward collision mitigation, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring.

The SE with Technology trim has an MSRP of $39,320 and includes a few upgrades over the SE, like 20-inch alloy wheels, a remote engine start, and a hands-free easy open liftgate. Seven USB ports are distributed between all three rows, and the cabin features a three-zone automatic climate control system. Front and rear parking assist and adaptive cruise control add to the driver-assist suite.

Moving up to the SEL at an MSRP of $44,940, you find additional features such as a power-tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof, eight-way power-adjustable front seats with lumbar support and driver memory, and a leatherette-wrapped heated steering wheel. Cruise and infotainment controls are conveniently mounted for easy accessibility.

The Digital Cockpit Pro screen increases to a 10.25-inch display, and the 8-inch touch screen now includes navigation and an HD radio. Additional driver-assist technologies include travel assist, lane assist, emergency assist, and dynamic roadsign display.

Building off the SEL features, the SEL R-Line Black trim starts at $48,640, adding trim-exclusive exterior R-Line Black trim. You also get a sport steering wheel wrapped in leather and heated for comfort.

Atlas’ top-tier SEL Premium R-Line delivers high-end luxury at a starting MSRP of $52,340. In addition to the R-Line exterior styling, it features 21-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front-row seats. The second-row outboard seats are also heated. And if you love music, the 12-speaker Fender audio system with a center speaker and subwoofer delivers theater-quality sound. Finally, you get the overhead surround-view camera system and automated parking assist, making close-quarters navigation easy.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas: Performance

The Atlas features two different engines, depending on trim level. Base models come with a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic technology. This powertrain rates at 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It also tows up to 2,000 pounds and gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg on surface roads and 25 mpg on the highway.

The top two Atlas trims come standard with a 3.6-liter V-6 engine paired with the same automatic transmission. As a result, this powertrain produces 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Your towing capacity jumps to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Still, you get decent efficiency with ratings of 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the freeway.

Both R-Line models come standard with all-wheel drive. You may choose to add this as an option over the front-wheel-drive platform included on the lower trims.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas: Interior

This spacious SUV offers three rows and can fit seven people, perfect for growing families. The top-tier SEL Premium R-Line provides the best premium features, but the layout and convenient storage locations make this an ideal family fit, no matter which trim you choose. Cargo capacity behind the third-row measures 20.6 cubic feet. With the third-row seat folded down, the space expands to 55.5 cubic feet. Folding the second and third rows flat, you get an impressive 96.8 cubic feet.

Technology runs through a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen on the lower trims. In addition, you get Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth technology that lets you sync your smartphones for hands-free operations. The top two Atlas models include an 8-inch touchscreen with built-in navigation, wireless charging, and access to the Volkswagen Car-Net system. With Car-Net, you can access remote operations and turn your Atlas into a Wi-Fi hotspot.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas: Driver-Assist Technology

Every Atlas comes equipped with IQ.DRIVE, Volkswagen’s suite of active and passive driver-assist systems. The suite includes adaptive cruise control, which lets you set the following distance and automatically adjusts your speed to maintain that distance. An active blind-spot monitor uses sensors to scan to either side and behind, alerting you when vehicles enter or approach your blind spots. If you attempt a lane-changing maneuver with a vehicle present in your blind spot, you receive an alert. If you fail to react, the system will provide gentle steering correction to keep you in your lane.

Volkswagen’s rear traffic alert uses similar tech to notify you when vehicles approach from either side while backing up. Again, this system will apply the brakes if you fail to react quickly. Looking forward, the front assist system alerts you to potential obstacles and engages emergent braking if necessary.

A new emergency assist system protects you and the vehicles around you if you cannot operate your Atlas. For example, the system alerts you if you become unresponsive. After several alerts, if you still don’t respond, the system brings your Atlas to a controlled stop, avoiding a possible collision and severe injury.

Also included is a lane assist system that uses sensors to track your Atlas within marked lanes. This system uses gentle steering input to keep you centered.

Test Drive a 2023 Volkswagen Atlas Today

Bachman Volkswagen knows what drivers want. So we stock an expansive inventory of Volkswagen Atlas SUVs at competitive prices. If you’re ready to elevate your Louisville commute with a spacious, comfortable, and tech-advanced SUV, we recommend you explore our inventory online. When you find the perfect Atlas for you and want to take a closer look, stop by and visit our dealership on Bluegrass Parkway. One of our Volkswagen experts will show you around and let you take your favorite for a spin.