2024 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2023 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas: Which SUV Better Suits You?

When you’re in the market shopping for a new car for sale, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with options. Over the years, the VW Atlas has proved itself to be a top choice for families and commuters alike. With its more affordable price tag, spacious interior, and stunning looks on the outside, it’s sure to meet your needs for your next ride.

Check out the chart below to compare the 2022, 2023, and 2024 Atlas models and decide which one is best suited for you. Read on to learn more!

Feature 2024 Volkswagen Atlas 2023 Volkswagen Atlas 2022 Volkswagen Atlas
MSRP $37,725 $35,150 $34,335
Vehicle Type Midsize SUV Midsize SUV Midsize SUV
Body Style Sport Utility Sport Utility Sport Utility
Transmission Automatic Automatic Automatic
Drivetrain Front Wheel Drive Front Wheel Drive Front Wheel Drive
Fuel/Engine Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 2.0 L/121 Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 2.0 L/121 Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 2.0 L/121
MPG 20 City / 27 Hwy 21 City / 25 Hwy 21 City / 25 Hwy
Horsepower (Net @ RPM) 269 hp @ 5,500 rpm 235 @ 5400 RPM 235 @ 5,400 rpm
Torque (Net @ RPM) 273 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm 258 @ 1,600 rpm 258 @ 1,600 rpm
Dimensions
Height, Overall (in.) 70.1 70.1 70.1
Length, Overall (in.) 200.7 200.7 200.7
Wheelbase (in.) 117.3 117.3 117.3
Width, Max w/o mirrors (in.) 78.3 78.3 78.3
Base Curb Weight (lbs.) 4343 4255 4262
Space Dimensions
Passenger Capacity 7 7 7
Cargo Volume to Seat 1 (cu. ft.) 20.6 ft³, 96.8 ft³ with seat area 20.6 ft³, 96.8 ft³ with seat area 20.6 ft³, 96.8 ft³ with seat area
Towing
Maximum Trailering Capacity (lbs.) 2000 2000 2000
Trims SE, SE w/ Technology, SEL and SEL Premium R-Line SE, SE w/ Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line Black, and SEL Premium R-Line SE, SE w/ Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line, SEL R-Line Black, and Premium R-Line

Starting at $37,725 MSRP, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas has been ranked as one of the top midsize, three-row SUVs for five consecutive years. The Atlas came on the scene in 2018 and has continued to deliver a spacious cabin and a comfortable ride for drivers of all kinds.

The Atlas remains the ideal family SUV in 2024, with its smattering of updates increasing its appeal. You’ll notice subtle tweaks to the exterior, such as front and rear LED light bars, illuminated VW logos, and an off-road themed Peak Edition model. In a 2024 VW Atlas, you’ll be sure to turn heads on the road.

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas starts at $35,150 MSRP, boasting powerful engine options – the 235-hp turbocharged four-cylinder or the 276-hp V6 with towing capabilities of up to 5,000 pounds. Both of these powertrains come with an 8-speed automatic transmission, with the option of front- or all-wheel-drive.

The 2023 Atlas maintains the legacy of a comfortable, spacious interior with practical cargo room once the third-row seating is folded down. If you’re more interested in sizing down, the Atlas Cross Sport might be the perfect sporty SUV for you.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas starts at $34,335 MSRP and continues to provide ample cargo room with third-row seating large enough to accommodate adults. Volkswagen has the Atlas outfitted with the most popular driving assistance features and standard equipment that make the Atlas even more valuable. Plus, you have the option of a standard turbo-four engine or a powerful V6, both offered in front- or -all-wheel drive.

What is New About the 2024 Atlas Model?

  • More powerful turbocharged four-cylinder is now the only engine option.
  • Increased number of standard features, including a 12-inch touchscreen and ventilated seats.
  • All-new off-road-inspired Peak Edition trim level.

Key Changes:

  • 2023: Volkswagen simplified trim levels and made minor equipment changes in 2023. The base SE model starts the new five-trim lineup, as the Atlas S is no longer offered. VW added the 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster as standard for all trims above SE.
  • 2022: Volkswagen revised the 2022 Atlas lineup, eliminating the base-level S model and making the SE trim the entry point. While this contributed to a higher starting price, the Atlas SE actually saw a price decrease. It now included some more desirable standard features such as a digital gauge cluster. When paired with the Technology package, the SE added USB-C ports to the third row. In addition, a 20-inch-wheel package also became available, and when paired with the optional V-6, the SE model with the Tech package now comes standard with a trailer hitch. Every SEL model now includes standard all-wheel drive and 20-inch wheels. All SEL Premium models feature the R-Line aesthetic, including 21-inch rims. The newly introduced R-Line Black appearance package gives the Atlas a more aggressive look.
  • 2021: In 2021, VW refreshed the Atlas with new front and rear fascia, increasing the overall length by nearly three inches. VW designed a more attractive three-bar grille on the front end, with revised headlights featuring standard LED elements.
  • 2020: Volkswagen’s Car-Net telematics system became standard to include features like remote start, vehicle location, and remote locking and unlocking complimentary for five years. The 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot also became standard, requiring a data plan.
  • 2019: In 2019, the forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning system, and rear cross-traffic alert first became standard. Other new standard features included automatic headlights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and heated side mirrors.

Performance

2024 Volkswagen Atlas Performance

Now, the Atlas comes with a 269-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 273 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front- or all-wheel-drive. Previously, the Atlas came with the option of a 235-hp four-cylinder or 276-hp V6 engine, but those options are no longer available.

The newest Atlas model’s powertrain comes with an improved throttle response and retuned transmission for a little extra pep in its step. The 2024 VW Atlas hits 60 mph in 7.3 seconds, coming in even faster than the 2018 V6 engine. It handles deftly through the city with a smooth, comfortable ride on the highway.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Performance

The 2023 VW Atlas comes standard with a 2.0-liter inline-four engine, putting out 258 lb-ft of torque and boasting up to 24 miles per gallon. In addition to the standard engine, a 276-hp 3.6-liter VR6 is available and can tow up to 5,000 pounds with the addition of a factory-installed trailer hitch.

The 2023 model includes the available 4Motion All-Wheel Drive featuring Active Control, allowing you to choose your drive settings based on the road and driving conditions. The different settings adjust your transmission for the road conditions based on the setting chosen.

2022 Volkswagen Atlas Performance

The 2022 VW Atlas comes with two engine options, the 235-hp four-cylinder or the 276-hp V6. Both engines come with an eight-automatic transmission, plus front- or all-wheel-drive. The V6 is smooth and refined, with neither engine options feeling underpowered.

Technology Features

2024 Volkswagen Atlas Technology

  • 12.0-inch infotainment touchscreen
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability
  • Six-speaker sound system
  • Wireless phone charging feature
  • Six USB-C ports provided
  • USB-C ports with 45 watts of charging power
  • SiriusXM 360L satellite radio available (subscription required)
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability
  • Wi-Fi hotspot

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Technology

  • 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system
  • Car-Net App-Connect integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • MIB touchscreen display for easy smartphone app access
  • Standard Volkswagen Digital Cockpit (Available Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro with customizable 10.25-inch digital display. Offers up to 21 viewing options, including gauges, navigation, and song information)
  • Car-Net Remote Access turns a smartphone into a remote control, functions include rolling up windows, locking doors, finding your car, and more
  • SiriusXM 360L satellite radio available (subscription required)
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability
  • Wi-Fi hotspot

2022 Volkswagen Atlas Technology

  • 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display
  • Intuitive touchscreen interface
  • Smartphone-level responsiveness
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability
  • Six-speaker sound system
  • Wi-Fi hotspot
  • Two USB ports
  • SE trims with Technology package get an 8.0-inch touchscreen
  • Back seats are equipped with three USB ports
  • SiriusXM 360L satellite radio available (subscription required)
  • Wireless phone charging pad included from SE trims with Technology package

Safety

2024 Volkswagen Atlas Safety

The 2024 VW Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport models come standard with VW’s IQ.DRIVE®, the brand’s advanced driver assistance technology. The suite of safety technology provides hands-on, semi-automated assistance capability. For highway driving, the IQ.DRIVE delivers lane centering technology and intuitive steering. Around town, IQ.DRIVE looks out for obstacles in front of the vehicle and takes in your surroundings to make sure your drive is as safe as possible.

This safety system uses front and rear sensors, a front camera, and ultrasound sensors to get a better understanding of the surrounding environment to enable the semi-automatic driving assistance, Travel Assist.

Helpful safety features include:

  • Front Assist (Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring)
  • Active Side Assist (Blind Spot Monitor)
  • Rear Traffic Alert
  • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop and Go
  • Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System)
  • Emergency Assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency)
  • NHTSA Overall Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis)

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Safety

Designed for safety, the 2023 VW Atlas features six airbags in front and back rear crumple zones and a rigid body to ensure you’re safe in the event of an accident. The 2023 model’s Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking work together to help you avoid a collision. You can safely change lanes with the help of the Blind Spot Monitor and the Rear Traffic Alert saves you from colliding with moving vehicles behind you when you’re leaving a parking spot or a driveway.

Helpful safety features include:

  • IQ.DRIVE®: Driver assistance tech helps monitor traffic and alert you to a potential rear-end collision with the vehicle in front of you.
  • Blind-Spot Monitor: Provides visual and audible alert warnings if there’s a vehicle in your blind spot.
  • Park Distance Control: Alerts if your vehicle is approaching an object in front of or behind your Atlas while parking.
  • Lane Keeping System: Sounds an audible alert when you drift from your lane and can automatically steer you back to help out.
  • Collision Warning: Standard forward-collision warning with automated emergency braking.
  • Blind Spot Signaling: Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
  • Cruise Control: Available adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology.
  • NHTSA Overall Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis).

2022 Volkswagen Atlas Safety

In 2022, the VW Atlas features an onslaught of standard and optional drive-assistance technologies with IQ.DRIVE®.

Helpful safety features include:

  • IQ.DRIVE®: Driver assistance tech to monitor traffic and alert you to a potential rear-end collision with the vehicle in front of you.
  • Blind-Spot Monitor: Get visual and audible alerts when other vehicles are in your blind spot.
  • Park Distance Control: Alerts if you are approaching an object in front of or behind your Atlas while parking.
  • Lane Keeping System: Alerts when you drift from your lane and can automatically steer to help out.
  • Collision Warning: Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking.
  • Blind Spot Signaling: Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
  • Cruise Control: Available adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology.
  • NHTSA Overall Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis).

Appearance

2024 Volkswagen Atlas

Exterior:

The 2024 VW Atlas is the largest vehicle in the lineup at 200.7 inches long, 78.3 inches long, and 70.4 inches tall. Despite its size, the 2024 model boasts an impressive 0.33 drag coefficient. The Atlas’s wide chrome, four-bar, front grille boosts the overall exterior styling. Coupled with the new LED headlights that come standard with the Adaptive Front-Lighting System (AFS) on all trims and automatic headlamps, you’ll be sure to turn heads on the road.

Interior:

The 2024 model’s interior is perfect for families, with an abundance of cupholders, ample cargo space, and distinct control layout. The Atlas is a practical choice with its spacious third-row seating that even adults can relax in. The interior style is clean and uncomplicated, equipped with quality materials.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas

Exterior:

In 2023, the exterior of the Atlas looked largely the same as it did in 2022. This year, the notable improvements were found on the inside and under the hood.

Interior:

With its sizable cabin, you can’t ignore the 33.7 inches of legroom and 38.3 inches of headroom your third-row passengers will enjoy. Atlas drivers can enjoy 41.7 inches of legroom, 41.3 inches of headroom, and a slew of cutting-edge features.

Features include a 6.5-inch touchscreen, a six-speaker sound system, and a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot. With an abundance of charging ports and storage, you’ll have everything you need for your next family road trip.

2022 Volkswagen Atlas

Exterior: ​​

The 2022 VW Atlas wears a boxy, chiseled facade, displaying strength and capability – at an affordable price. The 2022 model came in many striking colors like Racing Green Metallic, Aurora Red Metallic, and Pyrite Silver Metallic.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas has a boxy, chiseled look that conveys strength and rugged capability, and it’s priced below most of its competition. Plus, it has a familiar name that sounds ready for an epic road trip. 2022 Atlas model exterior colors including favorites like Racing Green Metallic, Aurora Red Metallic, and Pyrite Silver Metallic.

Interior:

On the inside, you can choose your synthetic or full-leather interior to be finished in color options such as Titan Black, Shetland Beige, or Mauro Brown. When it comes to comfort, you can enjoy a 10-way, power-adjustable driver’s seat and heated front seats on every Atlas model, or upgrade to the SEL model to add the eight-way, power-adjustable front passenger seat.

The Atlas SEL Premium R-Line model trades the standard V-Tex leatherette for full-leather interior, with the addition of a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats. Plus, most Atlas models come with a triple-zone automatic climate control.

Color Options

2024 Volkswagen Atlas Colors

  • Platinum Gray Metallic
  • Silver Mist Metallic
  • Deep Black Pearl
  • Pure White
  • Aurora Red Metallic
  • Opal White

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Colors

  • Platinum Gray Metallic
  • Aurora Red Metallic
  • Racing Green Metallic
  • Pyrite Silver Metallic
  • Tourmaline Blue Metallic
  • Deep Black Pearl
  • Pure White

2022 Volkswagen Atlas Colors

  • Platinum Gray Metallic
  • Pyrite Silver Metallic
  • Tourmaline Blue Metallic
  • Deep Black Pearl
  • Pure White
  • Aurora Red Metallic
  • Racing Green Metallic

Overview: Advantages of the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2023 vs 2022 Models

2024 Volkswagen Atlas Advantages

  • Great value for the price in lower trims
  • Spacious interior provides ample passenger room in all three rows
  • Cargo capacity is close to class-leading

Possible Disadvantages

  • New user interface might be challenging to use

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Advantages

  • Ease of getting in/out of the third-row seats
  • Vehicle’s ability to carry everything you want
  • Comfort of rear seats

Possible Disadvantages

  • Sound quality of the vehicle’s audio system

2022 Volkswagen Atlas Advantages

  • Three rows of spacious seating
  • Handling is precise and balanced
  • Impressive towing capability

Possible Disadvantages

  • Cabin materials don’t keep up with the competition

2024 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2023 vs 2022 Models: Which Car Do You Want Most?

The Volkswagen Atlas has proved time and time again that it’s a perfect pick for families. When it comes time to choose your family’s next ride, come visit Low Country Volkswagen – your trusted Volkswagen dealership in the Charleston area!

We have a wide selection of Volkswagens for sale and the best deals in the Palmetto State! Stop by today for a test drive or start shopping online now for your new Volkswagen.

 

 

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Disclaimer by Low Country Volkswagen:

Low Country Volkswagen believes the information and specifications in this website to be correct at the time of publishing.

Model specifications provided may vary based on selected trim, pricing, options, and installed accessories. Specifications, standard features, options, fabrics, accessories, and colors are subject to change without notice.

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