Comparing the 2025 VW Atlas vs 2024 VW Atlas 3-Row Midsize SUVs

The entire Volkswagen lineup received a refresh for the 2025 model year, and the VW Atlas is fresher than ever. 

With three rows, room for up to seven passengers, and the ability to tow up to 5,000 pounds, this midsize SUV is the perfect vehicle for families or road trip warriors alike. Keep reading as we break down the differences between the 2024 and 2025 VW Atlas and help you find the right model for you. Then, stop by Low Country Volkswagen and get behind the wheel of your new VW!

Trims

2025 Atlas

(Trim: SE)

2024 Atlas

(Trim: SE)

MSRP*

$38,200

 $37,995

Body Style

3-Row Midsize SUV

3-Row Midsize SUV

Drivetrain

FWD 

(AWD options on entry-level trims)

FWD 

(AWD options on entry-level trims)

Engine

Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 2.0 L/121

Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 2.0 L/121

Transmission

8-speed shiftable automatic

8-speed shiftable automatic

Horsepower

269 @ 5500 rpm

269 @ 5500 rpm

Torque

273 @ 1600 rpm

273 @ 1600 rpm

Fuel Type

Unleaded Gas

Unleaded Gas

Fuel (MPG)

20 city / 27 hwy / 23 combined

20 city / 27 hwy / 23 combined

Tank Capacity

18.6 gal.

18.6 gal.

Space & Comfort

Seating Capacity

7

7

Front Headroom

41.3 in.

41.3 in.

Front Legroom

41.7 in.

41.7 in.

Rear Headroom

40.4 in.

40.4 in.

Rear Legroom

37.6 in.

37.6 in.

Max Cargo Capacity

96.6 cu.ft.

96.6 cu.ft.

Cargo Volume to Seat 1 

96.6 cu. ft.

96.6 cu.ft.

Cargo Volume to Seat 2 (cu. ft.)

55.5 cu. ft.

55.5 cu. ft.

Cargo Volume to Seat 3 (cu. ft.)

20.6 cu. ft.

20.6 cu. ft.

Size & Dimensions

Height

70.1 in.

70.1 in.

Length

200.7 in

200.7 in

Turning Diameter

41 ft.

41 ft.

Width, Max w/o mirrors (in.)

78.3 in

78.3 in

Wheelbase

117.3 in.

117.3 in.

Base Weight

4343 lbs.

4343 lbs.

Max Trailer Capacity

5,000 lbs.

5,000 lbs.

Payload

1,091 lbs.

1,091 lbs.

Wheels

20-inch black aluminum-alloy wheels 

18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels 

Trims

SE, SE with Technology, SEL and SEL Premium R-Line

(also, Peak Edition sub trim available)

SE, SE with Technology, SEL and SEL Premium R-Line

(also, Peak Edition sub trim available)

The Good & Bad: Volkswagen Atlas


2025 VW Atlas Advantages

  • Big cabin
  • Comfortable third row
  • Strong warranty
  • Good instrument cluster

Possible Disadvantages 

  • Atlas hybrid not a part of the lineup

2024 VW Atlas Advantages

  • Dynamic four-cylinder engine
  • Generous passenger and cargo room
  • Balanced ride and handling
  • Generous standard features

Possible Disadvantages 

  • The infotainment system is less intuitive than other vehicles

Best Trim

Our pick for the trim that packs the most punch is the SE model with technology. This trim package is affordable, offering convenient tech like the power tailgate, remote start, parking sensors, and additional USB ports. 

In second place, we’d put the SEL model. The SEL packs plenty of family friendly features, like heated first- and second-row seating, six USB-C ports, panoramic sunroof, and a power-operated hands-free tailgate. In addition, the driver can enjoy a heated steering wheel, head-up display, ventilated front seats, adaptive cruise control, and more. 

Trim Levels MSRP*

SE FWD $37,995

SE AWD $37,995

SE w/ Technology FWD $42,100

SE w/ Technology AWD $44,000

Peak Edition SE w/ Technology AWD $46,900

SEL AWD $48,880

Peak Edition SEL w/ Technology AWD $50,870

SEL Premium R-Line AWD $52,890

SE Trim (Basic, but well-equipped)

  • 18-inch alloy wheels
  • Adaptive LED headlights
  • Heated exterior mirrors
  • Keyless entry and ignition
  • Three-zone automatic climate control
  • Heated steering wheel 
  • Power-adjustable driver seat
  • Synthetic leather upholstery 
  • Heated and ventilated front seats
  • 60/40-split second-row bench seat
  • 50/50-split third-row bench
  • Digital instrument cluster 
  • 12-inch touchscreen
  • Every row has USB ports
  • Six-speaker audio system
  • Wireless connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Wireless smartphone charging pad
  • Voice controls
  • Volkswagen IQ.DRIVE® Advanced Driver Assistance Technology

SE with Technology (More Tech and Features)

  • 20-inch wheels
  • Front and rear LED light bars
  • Illuminated VW badges
  • Hands-free power liftgate
  • Remote ignition
  • Manual rear window sunshades
  • Second-row 115-volt AC outlet
  • Towing hitch, up to 5,000-pound towing capacity
  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • Available panoramic sunroof

Peak Edition SE with Technology (Off-road ready)

  • 18-inch wheels including all-terrain tires
  • Black exterior trim
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • Restyled front and rear bumpers
  • Adjustable ambient cabin lighting

SEL (Luxury & comfort upgrades)

  • Upgraded headlights
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • Driver seat memory settings
  • Power-adjustable passenger seat
  • Heated second-row seats
  • Leather upholstery
  • Adjustable ambient cabin lighting
  • Integrated navigation system 
  • Safe exit warning (warns rear passenger if car is approaching from behind when they are about to open a door)
  • Head-up display on the windshield

Peak Edition SEL (Luxury Off-Road Combo)

  • 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires
  • Black-painted exterior trim
  • Durable synthetic leather seats 

SEL Premium R-Line (Top-of-the-Line)

  • 21-inch wheels
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel
  • Diamond-pattern inserts on seats
  • 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system
  • Automated parking system
  • 360-degree camera (provides top-down view for tight parking situations)

What’s New?

What’s New for the 2025 Atlas?

  • 2025 Volkswagen Atlas is slated for Fall 2024 release date
  • Mountain Lake Blue paint is now available; Avocado Green and Pure Grey offered on non–Peak Edition trims
  • Automatic high-beams and wireless charging pad now standard
  • SEL Premium R-Line gets updated seat upholstery, four-way lumbar support, and massaging front seats
  • Peak Edition SEL discontinued

What’s New for the 2024 Atlas?

  • The turbocharged four-cylinder now the only engine option
  • Desirable standard features, including ventilated seats and 12-inch touchscreen
  • New off-road-ready Peak Edition trim level

Performance


2025 VW Atlas Performance

  • Engine & Power:
    • 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine
    • 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque
    • 8-speed automatic transmission
  • Drive Options:
    • Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) comes standard
    • Most trims offer 4Motion All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
  • Acceleration:
    • AWD version goes zero to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds
  • Fuel Efficiency:
    • FWD models: 20 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway
    • AWD models: 18-19 mpg in the city, 24-26 mpg on the highway, depending on the trim

2024 VW Atlas Performance

  • Engine:
    • Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder
    • 269 horsepower
    • 273 lb-ft of torque
  • All-Wheel Drive Option:
    • Available for occasional trail riding
  • Transmission:
    • Eight-speed automatic transmission
  • Performance:
    • Improved throttle response
    • Zero to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds
    • Smooth ride on most road conditions
  • Handling:
    • Tightly grips corners
    • Significant body roll discourages aggressive driving

Technology Features

2025 VW Atlas Tech

  • Infotainment:
    • 12-inch touchscreen display
    • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Charging & Connectivity:
    • Wireless smartphone charging pad
    • Up to six USB ports spread throughout all three rows
  • Digital Displays:
    • 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster displaying key vehicle information
    • Higher trims include a head-up display, projects onto windshield
  • Premium Features:
    • Available Harman Kardon premium audio system
    • 360-degree camera
    • Multicolor interior ambient lighting

2024 VW Atlas Tech

  • Connectivity:
    • Standard wireless charging pad
    • Plenty of USB-C ports for charging multiple devices
    • Wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
  • Infotainment System:
    • 12-inch center touchscreen
    • Convenient, easy-to-navigate menus
    • Onboard navigation system
  • Advanced Driver Aids:
    • Multiple cameras deliver well-rounded views of the vehicle
    • Available park distance control with maneuver braking
    • Exit warning system alerts driver to pedestrians and/or other items behind your vehicle
  • Hands-Free Remote Power Rear Liftgate included

Appearance

 

 

 

2025 Interior

  • Space & Seating:
    • Very spacious interior, especially in the third row (fits adults comfortably)
    • Easy access to third row thanks to sliding and tilting second-row seats
    • Limited adjustments on driver’s seat, still easy to find a comfortable position
    • Open visibility all around, the third-row headrests don’t block your view
  • Cargo Space:
    • 20.6 cubic feet of storage behind third row 
    • Up to 96.6 cubic feet with second and third rows folded flat
    • Second and third rows fold flat, not power-folding
  • Storage & Convenience:
    • Several small storage spaces up front and in third row for personal storage
    • Fewer storage cubbies in the second row, but door pockets add storage
    • Easy to install child safety seats, thanks to its large doors and spacious second-row for bulky seats
  • Controls:
    • Touch-sensitive controls for volume and climate can be tricky to use, especially at night due to the fact they do not light up

2025 Exterior

  • No major changes to exterior styling
  • New Colors: 
    • Mountain Lake Blue and Avocado Green Pearl
  • Exterior Colors: 
    • Mountain Lake Blue 
    • Avocado Green Pearl
    • Pure White
    • Opal White
    • Silver Mist Metallic
    • Platinum Gray Metallic
    • Deep Black Pearl
    • Aurora Red Metallic 
    • Pure Gray

2024 Interior

  • Spacious Interior:
    • Spacious third-row seating with sliding and tilting second-row seats for easy access
    • Room for up to seven passengers
  • Comfortable Ride:
    • Standard heated and ventilated front seats for additional comfort
    • Available heated first and second-row outboard seats
    • Long seat bottoms in front seats suitable for long-legged drivers
  • Noise Levels:
    • Dampened outside noise
  • Climate Control:
    • Climatronic® three-zone automatic climate control system delivers comfort in all three rows

2024 Exterior

  • Dynamic and Modern Design:
    • Clean lines and bold contours
    • Sporty silhouette
    • Signature grille dominates front fascia
    • Stylish headlights with advanced lighting technology
  • LED Lighting:
    • LED headlights and taillights for improved visibility, delivering a contemporary look
    • LED daytime running lights combine form and function
  • Aerodynamics:
    • Minimal air resistance
    • Enhances fuel efficiency and delivers a smooth ride
  • Panoramic Sunroof:
    • Available option to enhance driving experience with unmatched views
  • Wheel Options:
    • Wide range of available wheel options
  • Color Palette:
    • Six exterior color options
    • Three interior color options
  • Exterior Illuminated Light Bar:
    • Available to enhance exterior appearance
  • Exterior Colors
  • Pure White
  • Opal White
  • Silver Mist Metallic
  • Platinum Gray Metallic
  • Deep Black Pearl
  • Aurora Red Metallic 
  • Avocado Green Metallic
  • Pure Gray

Safety

  • Safety Ratings:
    • The 2024 Model earned a 5/5 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) overall safety score. The 2025 model has not yet been tested. 
  • Volkswagen IQ.DRIVE® Advanced Driver Assistance Technology:
    • Comes standard on all 2024 and 2025 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport models
    • Hands-on semi-automated capability
    • Lane centering and capacitive steering wheel for highway driving
    • Alerts for sudden obstacles and surroundings 
    • Front and rear radar, front camera, and ultrasound sensors for a near-360 view
    • Forward collision warning with vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrian detection
    • Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian monitoring
    • Includes various safety features, such as travel assist, front assist, active side assist, rear traffic alert, adaptive cruise control (ACC) stop and go, lane assist, and emergency assist
  • Additional Advanced Safety Features:
    • Standard exit warning
    • Available park distance control, park assist, dynamic road sign display, and Head-up Display.
  • Passive Safety Features:
    • Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
    • Stability control
    • Front-impact airbags
    • Side-impact airbags
    • Overhead airbags
    • Pretensioners for seatbelts
  • Security Features:
    • Intrusion detection security system, includes ignition disable device for unauthorized key detection

Warranty

  • New Vehicle Warranty
    • Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty:
      • 4 years or 50,000 miles (whichever comes first).
      • Covers most vehicle repairs for peace of mind.
  • Scheduled Maintenance
    • Carefree Maintenance:
      • Covers the first 2 years or 20,000 miles (whichever comes first).
      • Includes manufacturer-recommended services for the first two years.
  • Roadside Assistance
    • 24/7 Roadside Assistance:
      • Available around the clock, every day of the week.
      • Provides help in case of breakdowns, flat tires, or other roadside emergencies.
  • Remote Vehicle Features
    • myVW App:
      • Control your vehicle remotely, including:
        • Starting the car (if equipped with Remote Start).
        • Locking and unlocking doors.
        • Setting speed and boundary alerts.
        • Locating your car in a parking lot.
      • Requires activation of VW Car-Net through myVW enrollment.
  • Extended Protection
    • Vehicle Service Protection:
      • Extends coverage up to 10 years or 150,000 miles.
      • Covers up to 1,500 parts in case of mechanical breakdown.
      • Includes 24/7 roadside assistance.
  • Parts & Accessories Warranty
    • Genuine Volkswagen Accessories:
      • Covered for 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first.
      • Coverage may extend if installed during the New Vehicle Limited Warranty period.
    • Replacement Parts Warranty:
      • Batteries Sold Before 2015:
        • 24-month full warranty.
        • Prorated coverage for up to 5 years.
      • Batteries Sold After 2015:
        • 36-month full warranty.
        • Prorated coverage for up to 5 years.

2025 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2024 Atlas: Which SUV Do You Want Most?


In the market for a new Volkswagen SUV? Let Low Country Volkswagen help you find the right one for you. Our Mount Pleasant VW dealership is stocked with new and pre-owned Atlas models for you to test drive – and take home! Stop by our lot today or start shopping online now.

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FAQs


Is the 2025 Atlas fast?

The 2025 VW Atlas comes equipped with a turbo-4, putting out 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. While the 2025 model may not be a super speedy ride, it goes from zero to 60 at a reasonable 7.5 seconds in all-wheel drive. The turbo-4 puts out decent passing power, and the engine works best in sport mode. 

Is the 2025 Atlas AWD or FWD?

The lower trims come standard with front-wheel drive, but all-wheel-drive is available. The Atlas isn’t quite an off-roading vehicle, if that’s what you’re looking for, but with its 6.3 inches of ground clearance, it’s more capable than an all-wheel-drive minivan.

Is the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas worth buying?

The VW Atlas is comparable to other midsize SUVs in price and build. It’s a solidly built SUV and it comes with basic and powertrain warranties that run for four years/50,000 miles – which is more than what other automakers offer for basic coverage and powertrain warranties. Volkswagen also offers complimentary maintenance!

What SUV does the VW Atlas compete with?

The Volkswagen Atlas competes with other three-row family SUVs like the Ford Explorer, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, and Toyota Grand Highlander. The Atlas boasts a 5-star National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) rating, comes with the popular IQ.DRIVE® Advanced Driver Assistance Technology, and offers Volkswagen’s warranty on routine maintenance and repairs.

Does the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas come with a sunroof?

Starting with the Peak Edition SE model and above, the 2025 Atlas comes with a panoramic sunroof.

Does the VW Atlas require premium gas?

No, the VW Atlas SUV doesn’t require premium gas. It runs on regular unleaded gasoline.

Is the 2025 VW Atlas 3rd row?

Yes, the VW Atlas is outfitted with three rows of seating for up to seven passengers.

Is the 2025 Atlas good on gas?

The Volkswagen Atlas gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. The all-wheel-drive option gets 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway on most models. 

Does the 2025 Atlas offer remote start?

Yes! The 2025 Atlas model offers both remote start and keyless entry. 

Is the 2025 VW Atlas full-size or midsize SUV?

The Volkswagen Atlas is a midsize SUV.

What are the trim levels for 2025 Atlas? 

The 2025 Atlas comes in five different trim levels: SE, SE with Technology, Peak Edition SE with Technology, SEL, and SEL Premium R-Line.

Which VW Atlas is the best trim level? 

Our experts believe the SE with technology comes with the most bang for your buck. This package is affordable and comes with a variety of features like the power tailgate, front and rear parking sensors, remote start, tow hitch, and USB ports. 

What is the VW Atlas Peak Edition?

The VW Atlas Peak Edition delivers the aesthetics of an off-road vehicle with its 18-inch, all-terrain tires, ruggedly designed bumpers and body cladding, and roof rails. 


*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, options, and installed accessories. Specifications, standard features, options, fabrics, accessories, colors, and other features related to the vehicles are subject to change without notice. Values are based on MSRP and exclude taxes, fees, and adjustments. Please visit certified dealers for more accurate pricing.

Images of vehicles are for illustrative purposes only. Please see the dealer for details and availability.