Starting Price: $31,425 | Price yours
Above Average: Interior space, tech features, terrific warranty
Below Average: Power, ease of use of tech features
Consensus: Worth a serious look
Making up for Lost Time in a Big Way
The Volkswagen Atlas is the first all-new midsize SUV to hit the market in quite some time. Well-established rivals like the Toyota Highlander, Nissan Pathfinder and Ford Explorer have been around for decades, but the Atlas came well prepared, with plenty of versatility and a bevy of tech and safety equipment. It also boasts one of the roomiest third rows we’ve ever sat in, as well as a strong 6-year/72,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. With options that can make the Atlas downright luxurious plus family-friendly amenities, Volkswagen’s midsize SUV is yet another compelling choice in the category.
Driving It
The biggest Volkswagen manages to deliver the European driving feel that has long distinguished its smaller cars, but it’s not particularly fleet of foot. As we noted in the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas full review, "The V6/8-speed is a refined combination, but power is just adequate. With two people aboard, climbing grades was acceptable, but the engine may be overtasked when the Atlas is filled with people and gear."
Compare and Contrast
We recently pitted the all-new Atlas against some of the heaviest hitters in the segment, taking six midsize SUVs on a lengthy journey through deserts and mountains, over winding roads and highways. See how all of these new and recently updated models fared in our Midsize SUV comparison.
Volkswagen Atlas Shoppers Also Look At
Consumer Feedback
KBB.com visitor and Atlas owner SM423 had this to say about the Atlas: "We were originally looking to get either Q7 or XC90 but these 2 have a very tight 3rd row and there is no cargo space behind 3rd row. My wife and me decided to purchase Atlas after looking at how roomy and comfortable Atlas is compared to others and its overall value. It has so much room and all the safety features you can think of…Driving is fun (sport mode) but would have been nice to have few more HPs but has enough power." Read more Volkswagen Atlas consumer reviews.
Build and Price
Pricing for the Atlas S starts at over $31,000 when equipped with the four-cylinder engine. Choosing an Atlas SEL Premium 4Motion with the V6 engine tops out at about $50,000. How much should you really pay? Build and price your own 2018 Volkswagen Atlas to unlock this week’s Fair Purchase Price, 5-Year Cost to Own and more.
More Midsize Crossovers
The Volkswagen Atlas is the newest entry in the midsize SUV segment, and has one of the roomiest interiors of any midsize SUV. But there are plenty of other choices out there. Take a look at our Midsize SUV Buyer’s Guide to become an instant expert on the category.
Photo Gallery: Exterior, Interior and Details
Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Concept
At the New York Auto Show, Volkswagen announced there will be a five-passenger version of the Atlas. The automaker showed the Atlas Cross Sport concept, which could give some indications about the production model. The concept has a plug-in hybrid powertrain, and a sportier stance than the three-row SUV on which it’s based. The production version of the concept is expected to go on sale in 2019.
All Your 3-Row Midsize SUV Choices
