Volkswagen Atlas

The Atlas is a relatively new model released in 2017 by Volkswagen. It is Volkswagen’s largest, most spacious SUV in its lineup. It has precise yet balanced handling and offers a lot of value, especially in the lower trim levels. The VW Atlas is class-leading in passenger and cargo space but suffers from mediocre fuel economy and cheaper feeling interior materials. Overall this midsize SUV is a great German-engineered three-row people mover. In terms of performance, the Atlas offers a decent level of power and handling, although it may not be the most agile SUV on the market. The fuel economy is about average for its class, so you can expect to get reasonable gas mileage, but not exceptional. It’s a top choice if you value interior space and comfort. Rating out of 5 stars: Andrew’s 3.5 / 5 stars

One thing you will appreciate about the Atlas is its roomy third-row seating, which can comfortably accommodate adults, unlike some other vehicles in its class. Additionally, the cargo area is quite spacious, making it easy to haul large items like luggage or sports equipment. It’s a solid option for big families. Pros - Roomy cabin with ample passenger room in all three rows - 5,000 lb towing capacity available with the 3.6 litre V6 engine in the Highline and Execline trims - Very smooth ride thanks to well-tuned suspension and sound insulation - Driver assistance features are standard in all models Solid safety ratings Is it comfortable? The Atlas is extremely comfortable, with supportive seats and ample headroom and legroom for all passengers. It’s one of the most comfortable SUVs in its class. Is it fun to drive and have a decent engine? While it’s not necessarily known for its sporty performance, it does have a decent engine and provides a cozy driving experience. The handling is responsive, and the steering is well-weighted, making it easy to maneuver. However, it may not be as fun to drive as some of its competitors. Is it good value for money? The Volkswagen Atlas provides good value for money in terms of its features and capabilities. It is often compared to the Audi Q7 and BMW X5 but at a much lower price point. The 2023 base model Atlas starts at around $42,500. Sure, it’s not as luxurious as those two competitors, but it meets the same needs for space and comfort. Is it reliable? Yes. The Atlas has received average to above-average reliability ratings from various sources, including Consumer Reports and J.D. Power. However, it has produced the odd lemon, with some models experiencing occasional issues, such as electrical problems and transmission issues. Is it safe? Yes, the Volkswagen Atlas is a safe vehicle. It has received excellent safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Atlas also comes standard with advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. How does it perform against its next peer/category leader? The Volkswagen Atlas performs well against the competition in the midsize SUV segment. Its roomy interior, advanced safety features, and generous cargo space make it a strong candidate for families. However, some of its competitors do offer better fuel economy, more advanced infotainment systems, and more agile handling. Why is it one step ahead or behind? By now, it should be obvious that that the Atlas is one step ahead in terms of its spacious interior and advanced safety features. As for fuel economy and infotainment system usability, it falls behind a bit. Does it come with a good manufacturer’s warranty? Yes, in fact, it comes with three different warranties. The basic warranty covers the vehicle for four years or 80,000 Km, whichever comes first. This covers most parts and systems on the vehicle, including the engine, transmission, electrical system, and more. The powertrain warranty covers the vehicle's engine, transmission, and related components for five years or 100,000 km, whichever comes first. This provides extra protection for some of the most critical and expensive parts of the vehicle. There is also a 12-year/unlimited mileage corrosion perforation limited warranty.

Some of the most commonly reported issues include the transmission slipping during acceleration. Occasionally, owners have reported problems with the infotainment system, including slow response times and glitches. Volkswagen has issued recalls and addressed some of these problems through software updates. Cons - Lackluster acceleration even with the beefier V6 engine - Cheaper-feeling interior with lower-grade materials - Subpar fuel economy for its class - Limited off-road capabilities

The VW Atlas is best suited for large families or anyone who needs a spacious, versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of tasks, from daily commuting to weekend getaways. With its generous cargo space, advanced safety features, and available all-wheel drive, the Volkswagen Atlas is an excellent choice for those who prioritize practicality, comfort, and safety.

If you have a big family or simply appreciate a stylish SUV with lots of space, the Volkswagen Atlas is one of the best options on the market. It ticks all of the boxes that families need in a vehicle at a fair price point considering its size and advanced safety offerings. Drivers will find value even in the base model with LED headlights, power adjustable driver's seat, and towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs for hauling the boat or small trailer on camping or cottage trips.