2023 Volkswagen Atlas: All-New Update VW Atlas Expert Review

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2023 Volkswagen Atlas The Atlas is a seven-passenger three-row SUV and is the largest vehicle currently sold by the German manufacturer in the US. Offering impressive passenger comfort, even in the third row, the Atlas has proven to be at the forefront of the middle third class.

SUV category line since its introduction in 2018. We have also given high marks for its simple interior layout, ease of use, and pleasant road behavior.

Volkswagen gave the Atlas a styling refresh in 2021, as well as an updated infotainment system, so we can’t imagine VW will be looking to change anything big for 2023.

In fact, we’re pretty sure Volkswagen is in development. from the next generation Atlas so we’re betting the current Atlas will likely go through the rest of its lifespan without major upgrades.

If the Atlas has a weakness, it can be found under the hood. Neither the turbocharged four-cylinder engine nor the optional V6 engine offers much power, especially when you’re loading the Atlas with a passenger, and neither engine delivers particularly impressive fuel economy.

Other highly rated three-row SUVs to consider are the Honda Pilot (definitely all-new for 2023), the class-leading Kia Telluride, and the stylish Mazda CX-9.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Review

The Volkswagen Atlas is an attractive minivan alternative for families looking for a spacious 3-row SUV.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas

Not all 3-row SUVs are created equal. Some have third-row seating which is cramped even for children. The Atlas has one of the roomiest third rows in its class, plus plenty of cargo space. The VW Atlas has seven seats.

Another option is the more affordable Atlas Cross Sport 2 line, which we reviewed separately.

The Volkswagen Atlas just got an exterior refresh in 2021, but we may see further updates in 2023.

The compact Tiguan just got an interior update for 2022, and the updated Atlas interior could come with similar changes with a sleeker and more aesthetic. premium.

If you’re looking for a family SUV and want a roomy third row, your top choices next to the Atlas include the Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Durango, and Honda Pilot.

Some of the other strong Atlas settings include an easy-to-use infotainment system and a smooth, quiet ride. However, it performs less than the base engine and doesn’t get much better with the optional V6.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Updates

The Volkswagen Atlas 2023 is a three-row midsize SUV. Introduced in 2018, it was last updated for 2021 when it received a new grille, upgraded base engine, expanded all-wheel drive availability, and various technological upgrades.

The VW Atlas Cross Sport is a shorter two-row version of the Atlas with a slightly modified exterior shape. It is covered in a separate preview.

The trim level for the Atlas 2023 will likely remain in 2022, which is available in the SE, SE with Tech, SEL, R-Line SEL, and R-Line Premium SEL. The base engine on the SE, SE with Technology, and SEL models is a 235-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine.

Available on the SE with Technology and SEL, and standard at higher trim levels is a 276-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine. Front-wheel drive is standard on the SE and SE models with Technology, and all-wheel drive is available with either engine.

For 2022, VW is streamlining its Atlas lineup, making all-wheel drive standard on the SEL and higher trim levels, while the SEL R-Line and SEL Premium R-Line now only come with the V6 engine. Expect this to continue into 2023 to reduce assembly line complexity.

Expect to see another round of revisions for the Atlas during 2023, likely as a 2024 model, which is expected to include a new interior. The new model is still a few years away when VW can replace the current Atlas with a battery-electric model.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the 2022 Atlas high marks in crash test scores but marked it for avoiding vehicle-to-pedestrian collisions and for headlights at lower trim levels.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave Atlas a five-star rating, the highest.

All current Atlas models include automatic emergency braking with forwarding collision warning, rear traffic warning, and blind-spot monitoring.

The SE with higher Technology and models include adaptive cruise control and parking sensors, while the SEL and higher get an advanced lane guard assist system and driver assistance system for highway speeds up to 95 mph.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Price

The price of the Volkswagen Atlas is about average for a 3-row midsize SUV. Expect the Atlas 2023 to start at around $34,000 for the base trim and around $51,000 for the fully loaded Premium SEL model.

Similar price rivals include the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, and Hyundai Palisade.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Release Date

The Atlas 2023 is expected to stick to the price of the 2022 model, which ranges from $34,670 for the front-wheel-drive SE and up to $51,840 for the all-wheel-drive Premium R-Line SEL.

VW hasn’t announced a release date for the Atlas 2023 just yet. However, our records show the German automaker is likely to release the Atlas in the fall. Whether this is delayed or advanced due to a global chip shortage remains unknown.

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Previously in 2023 Volkswagen Atlas, The title of one of the oldest and largest automotive conglomerates is owned by Volkswagen. Being the largest car manufacturer in Europe, Volkswagen is present as one of the most trusted brands worldwide.

With the industry moving towards SUVs, Volkswagen introduced the Atlas as part of their initiative to further focus on the utility segment.

Based on the MQB platform that gave rise to the Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3, and even the Volkswagen Tiguan, the Atlas is essentially a people carrier, which has seen considerable success after its debut in 2017.

In its 2021 avatar, Atlas comes with two engine options and a set of seats that can be used for the third row. Being a 7-seater, the Atlas is a hefty SUV with the right utilitarian dimensions.

Nonetheless, even though Atlas gets a bit of a facelift for 2021, it’s the next generation that you should look to as a future Atlas owner. Reports suggest there won’t be any good news anytime soon as the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas will most likely be a carryover model.

The VW Atlas 2023 is a large three-row SUV. Since its debut in 2018, the Atlas has become Volkswagen’s biggest SUV, ahead of the smaller Tiguan and the new Volkswagen Taos SUV.

While we liked the Atlas when it debuted, a few updates to the 2021 model make it much more competitive. The updated exterior styling and upgraded interior keep it feeling fresh. Since Atlas was updated last year, we don’t expect significant changes for 2023.

The Atlas competes with other midsize three-row SUVs. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade remain our favorites, but it’s also worth checking out rivals including the Honda Pilot, Mazda CX-9, and the recently redesigned Toyota Highlander.

If you like the Atlas but don’t need the three rows of seating, the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport combines most of the power of the regular Atlas in a slightly more stylish package.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Review: Next-Gen VW Atlas

Debuting in 2018, the VW Atlas 2023 is still relatively fresh. However, with buyers preferring the styling of its cousin, the Atlas Cross Sport, VW opted to massage the 2021 Altas bumper to better match its sportier relative.

With 2023 VW Atlas marking only the second model year since the refresh, we expect it to be a carryover model.

Visually, the current Atlas is almost as vanilla with its upright face, smooth bodyside lines, slight hood bulge, and an upright tailgate. This may bore some buyers, but VW is playing for the masses with this design, and we hope it stays the same in the 2023 VW Atlas.

Inside, the current Atlas features a typical Volkswagen cabin. It’s clean, clutter-free, and wrong on the plain side with long stretches of featureless plastic and soft-touch materials.

The flat-bottom steering wheel and touchscreen break the monotony a bit – but only for a moment. We hope this simple interior design persists in Atlas 2023.

Atlas currently doesn’t leave anyone demanding more equipment, as its standard feature list is good enough for the most part. The list includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, upholstery, 17-inch alloy wheels, and more.

Buyers can shell out up to 8 inches for an 8-inch touchscreen, tri-zone climate control, 20-inch rollers, faux leather seats, 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster, five USB ports, a Fender audio system, and more. We expect standard features and options to remain the same in Atlas 2023.

The Atlas currently has a pair of powertrain options, starting with the standard 235-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. Buyers can opt for a 276-hp 3.6-liter V6 instead.

Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is optional with both engines. We expect these powertrain options to remain the same in the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas.

The VW Atlas is currently delivering “Good” results in all major IIHS crash tests and has even received a “Good” rating for available LED projector headlamps.

This sets it up nicely for Top Safety Pick status, but IIHS has yet to rate its standard automatic emergency braking, preventing it from getting the TSP nod. We expect all features and safety ratings to remain the same in Atlas 2023.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Redesign

A refreshed look and additional technological features will be found on the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas, thanks to a mid-year update to be carried out in 2021.

Now capable of loading eight individuals in three rows, the price for the same starting from the start is an expected MSRP of $33,000. Ready for release in late 2021, the 2023 Atlas will be available in the same 7 trim lineups.

Without major changes, the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas follows in the footsteps of the 2021 Atlas or rather 2021,5 MY. The plethora of technological features introduced in the latest models will continue unscathed into 2023.

With a release date set around late 2021, pricing for the Atlas 2023 8-seater is expected to start at an MSRP of 33,000, while the Atlas Cross Sport 5-seater is rather sporty. starting at $32,000.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Specs

The year 2021 will finally witness one of the most awaited and defining moments in the recent history of the Volkswagen brand. As of now, Volkswagen has a set pattern of overhauling its offerings every 4 years, this time they opted to do it early for the Atlas.

On the powertrain front as well, the same two engine options, namely the 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder and the 3.6L NA V6 will be available with the possibility of hybrid assistance, as reported.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas

The length of the vehicle will increase by a few inches due to the addition of a rumored secret feature as well, which at the rear also increases cabin space.

Therefore, the interior will be expanded to accommodate eight people now instead of seven. Rivals for the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas now include the Honda Pilot, Chevrolet Traverse, and Toyota Highlander.

The all-new Atlas will be available in 5 variants which will be offered in two powertrain options, 3.6 liter V6 or 2.0 liter I4. Drastic changes to the dimensions and exterior design can be expected for the 2023 model of the Volkswagen Atlas.

Furthermore, the rims will be offered in three different sizes while the interior will now accommodate one additional person from the previous offering which seats 7 people.

The upcoming Volkswagen Atlas will also get an eight-inch infotainment screen as standard as the standard six-inch screen found in 2021 MY.

Next up, there will be the all-new Car-net smartphone app so you can connect your device to your vehicle. There will also be improvements in vehicle technology offerings.

2023 VW Atlas Cross Sport

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport: VW Atlas Cross Sport GT Concept Comes With Low Ride Style

The Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport are solid and roomy crossovers, but neither is fun to drive.

Well, the manufacturer hopes to change that perception by introducing the new Atlas Cross Sport GT concept, a more aggressive redesign of the quiet SUV. The

The Atlas Cross Sport GT Concept is the latest in a lineup that created hype in 2021.

The Atlas includes models alongside the Arteon Big Sur and Taos Basecamp, a lineup of vehicles carefully redesigned by VW. Kidney.

Based on the manufacturer’s RLine model, this Atlas features an upgraded ST suspension with lower springs that brings the car closer to the road.

The Atlas is also equipped with exclusive 22-inch ABT Sport HR Aerowheel wheels and Tarox eight-piston front brakes, which provide the Atlas with excellent braking performance.

The exterior features hand-painted Kingfisher Blue paint, which is only available from the factory on select European VW models.

The glossy black exterior trim replaces the standard chrome finish, and a custom GT badge is integrated throughout the vehicle.

The interior features a matching Eisvogelblau color on the inside over the Recaro seats, paired with the shift lever and seat belts.

There’s even a unique rear center console that follows the design language of the front console.

As a driving force, the concept Atlas uses the same turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine as the Golf R, but now with an IS38 turbo and an additional front-mounted radiator.

The addition of these devices gives the Atlas a maximum power of 300 horsepower (223 kilowatts), mated to a seven-speed DSG gearbox and all-wheel drive.

“We really wanted to draw attention to the many great attributes of the Atlas Cross Sport, especially its strong exterior styling, and evaluate its potential performance capabilities,” said Sean Maynard, marketing specialist for VW.

But don’t get your hopes up, VW has no plans to produce this Cross Sport GT. However, if you want to make it that way, the Atlas Cross Sport could be the base model to modify.

The Atlas Cross Sport itself is marketed with a price tag starting at US$30,855 (approximately Rp447 million).

VW Atlas Tanoak

Using the Atlas crossover and MQB platform as a base, Volkswagen is considering producing a mid-size Tanoak pickup.

VW listened intently to customer feedback about the truck’s confrontation with the Honda Ridgeline.

The Ridgeline started at just under $31,000 including targets but quickly hit the mid-30s with Motor Trend testing above $40,000. VW spokesman Martin Hube said that if the Tanoak got the green light, the automaker would need it for $28,000 or less. That will also be lower than the base Atlas S, which should start at $31,745.

The arts community will be key to keeping costs down. Starting with the B-pillar, the Tanoak will be identical to the Atlas SUV and will likely be run from the same assembly line from Chattanooga, Tennessee. tailgate handles, in production versions, will probably use the traditional type.

In contrast to the Ridgeline, which has a separate bed frame from the cockpit, Hube said Tanoak aimed to unite the cockpit and bed using sheet metal glued together.

Also, while the Tanoak concept is bigger than the Ridgeline in some key respects, keep in mind that most design studios are too big for their concept to bring the scene to life. The production version may be slightly smaller.

How to ride a Tanoak? On the 17-mile sprint, the Tanoak offered a stronger performance than the Atlas. According to the concept, the Tanoak is set at 20 mph; At some point, we were overtaken by cyclists, so its VR6 drivetrain rating is controversial, VW predicts a 060 time of 8.5 seconds, which places it among the slowest in the mid-range segment.

The bed has the usual ties, but there’s one cool feature: The bedside rails snap outward, allowing the hoop to slide out and back from the roof truss, providing an additional point of support for a surfboard or kayak.

Climbing into the rear seats is a bit cramped in legroom, but Hube says the thick concept seats will likely be thinner in the production version, providing a few important inches of extra space.

A Volkswagen pickup truck might not be the weirdest idea in the book. After all, they did it before, in the early 80s. Sold worldwide as the Caddy, this Rabbit-based compact pickup is made in Westmoreland, Pennsylvania. Despite the blue-collar pickup, the country’s source of coal production, and savvy fuel economy, sales fell through after just a few years and VW pulled the plug.

VW product planners tracked sales of the Ridgeline, which peaked in the first-generation 50,193 in 2006. But an economic downturn killed demand for Honda’s solid trucks, and sales plummeted in their late teens. Last year, for the first time in the history of the new generation, sales of the Ridgeline jumped to 34,749 units.

Is that volume enough for VW to build a Tanoak? That remains to be seen. Niche variants typically require a minimum of 30,000 annual units for manufacturers to consider building one.

One last thing: If VW decides to build it, and keep the name, it’s pronounced tan-okay, not tan-o-whack.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Exterior

It is in this aspect that the Volkswagen Atlas is expected to get some modifications. To start with, the 2023 model comes with an aggressive grille and redesigned headlights that include standard LED components, like the MY 2021.5.

Even the rear finds itself remodeled with new taillights. In addition, the vehicle is offered with different wheel sizes and increased cabin space, which increases the length of the vehicle.

Coming to the overall exterior styling, the 2023 Atlas is still a bit bland and functional to look at from the outside, while the 5-seater Atlas Cross Sport is still slightly better off due to its sporting cues. As the 2021 Atlas gets a slight facelift, the same will be reciprocated until 2023.

We can’t access all the details of the exterior dimensions of the Atlas 2023 although one thing we can be sure of is the Volkswagen’s increased length. Atlas with 3 inches.

There may also be a slight increase in curb weight, but everything else is roughly the same. In comparison, the Volkswagen Atlas offers the best ground clearance in its segment.

The curb weight of the vehicle is medium and that’s good, any of the extremes will prove bad for it. Given the vehicles that rivaled the German Atlas, their dimensions proved to be very similar.

One of the main drawbacks of the Volkswagen Atlas is the exterior styling. Despite being functional with enormous dimensions, however, the design is for the most part uninspired. It’s like how the design team decided to sketch the simplest shape and call it a day.

Of course, the question is should you expect any changes for the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas? Well, no. The 7-seater gets a minor facelift for the 2021 model year and expecting another refresh is a bit of a waste.

For those who find the Atlas unattractive, there is a slightly sportier Cross Sport with 5 seats instead of the regular 7 seaters.

While the Cross Sport doesn’t excel in terms of design and style, its overall appeal looks a bit contemporary. One thing that stands out is the enormous dimensions of the Atlas.

Therefore finding space will not be a concern. The 2021 Atlas is aimed at maximizing the available space and the size of the SUV should easily accommodate the needs of any suburban family.

Read next: 2023 Volkswagen Passat: New Volkswagen Passat Preview With EV

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Interior

It is in this aspect that the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas receives some significant interior changes from the previous model. First of all, up until now, Atlas was only able to fit 7 people into it and thus lost the edge over its competitors.

The 2023 model year will see slight interior changes that will allow the Volkswagen Atlas to seat 8 people.

It offers the most space for its passengers when compared to its competitors, adding to the greatness of the German Company’s SUV hat. Coming to the interior cabin design layout, the materials used may be luxurious, but the overall layout reeks of simplicity and complete practicality.

For the 2023 Atlas, Volkswagen is also rumored to be introducing several comfort features and additional infotainment as standard, particularly on the SEL and SEL Premium R-Line trims.

On the cargo capacity front, with 20.6 cu. ft of direct cargo space, the Atlas 2023 seals a podium spot when compared to its competitors.

Although there is plenty of room inside the 7-seater Atlas, the interior is devoid of emotion. It’s functional and does the job you want it to, that’s all. But when you spend the average amount of $35,000, you prefer to have an interior that evokes a bit of emotion.

Just like the exterior, the interior remains simple but unimaginative. Is there any chance that will change for 2023? The answer is no. The updated 2021 interior isn’t much different from the previous year’s model, but there are important improvements.

The 2021,5 model year as it is called introduces a lot of tech features though, most of them including the higher SEL and SEL Premium trims.

One noticeable change across the board is the updated MIB3 infotainment system. Although the screen size remains at 6.5 inches for the base S trim while the upper trim uses an 8.0-inch system running the same software.

Features like wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are finding their way along with improved voice command functionality and improvements to the dashboard navigation system.

The equipment list is quite impressive for Atlas as most of the latest safety and assists features are standard equipment.

Comfort amenities include heated front seats with memory, dual-zone HVAC, power tailgate, and remote start. We should see many of these features carried over to the 2023 model year.

Volkswagen Atlas 2023 Engine

When you open the hood of the Volkswagen Atlas 2023, you’ll find the standard 235 hp 2.0L Inline-4, and the 276 hp naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V6 engine.

This engine gives decent figures on the charts but in comparison, it lacks the competence to face its competitors in terms of power production.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas

Despite having the advantage of being equipped with the highest engine capacity in its class, the Volkswagen Atlas fails to provide good numbers for its horsepower, when compared to its competitors.

However, it does justice to the torque it offers. This means the vehicle lacks speed but is also capable of carrying 8 passengers comfortably.

Having a higher asking price than its competitors is a negative sign for Toyota Highlander. Atlas from Volkswagen and Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a 3.6-liter engine which is also the largest in its segment. Not too far behind other competitors who come equipped with a 3.5-liter engine.

The Atlas is a family SUV built for utilitarian duties. Therefore, Volkswagen has provided two engine options for the Atlas. We think the powertrain for 2023 will remain the same as the 2021 model with the possibility of a certain level of hybrid assist, although nothing has been confirmed yet.

Available powertrain options include; the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that puts out 235 horsepower and the naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V6 engine produces 276 horsepower. Torque figures are 258 lb-ft and 266 lb-ft, respectively.

There is only one transmission offered and that is an 8-speed automatic torque converter driving the front wheels as standard, while all-wheel drive is optional.

In terms of performance, the 2021 Volkswagen can hit 60 mph in 7.1 seconds if equipped with a V6 while the quarter-mile comes in 15.5 seconds. The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas is capable of a top speed of 115 mph, although the chances of you converting this 7-seater SUV are slim.

What you might want to consider is the towing capacity of the 2021 Atlas. This will depend on the type of engine and drivetrain combo you have. For the V6, towing capacity goes up to 5000-pounds while the 2.0-liter inline 4 can manage up to 2000-pounds.

We don’t expect things to change for 2023, however, the addition of some sort of electric motor could help with some extra torque which will help in improving performance and towing capability. Again, no confirmation for VW.

Read next: 2023 Volkswagen Jetta: Next-Gen Volkswagen Jetta Preview

Volkswagen Atlas 2023 MPG

Faced with the highest precision rivals from Japan and engineering stalwarts from America, the Volkswagen Atlas found it a bit difficult to run this race.

The upcoming Volkswagen Atlas 2023 has opted to keep its powertrain and as such will most likely deliver the same MPG figures with the 2.0L 17 in the city and 19 on the highway, at least that’s what we hoped for but we’ll have to wait for the EPA to confirm the same.

When it comes to evaluating the competence of German-made engines, we find that the car under consideration offers more or less the same number of miles as a gallon.

However, when it comes to deciding on the best car in terms of mileage, the name of the consistent segment leader emerges—Honda Pilot.

While Honda and Toyota offer a gallon of mileage in all aspects, the Honda Pilot which has a larger fuel capacity provides better range and thus ranks first in terms of fuel efficiency.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Price

There are no official pricing details on the 2023 Atlas, but with no changes, we expect only a slight increase relative to the current model’s MSPR range from $32,565 to $51,920 (including destination costs).

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Release Date

No official sales date is scheduled for the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas, but the fleet production schedule suggests production will begin in July 2022.

The 2023 Atlas will arrive in showrooms as soon as production begins.