Published August 31 2018

Road tests of the new 2018 Volkswagen Atlas

The new Volkswagen Atlas really stands out from the competition in terms of space and refinement. With the Atlas, you will never have to wonder if you have enough room. Not convinced? Check out what some journalists had to say in their recent reviews of the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas.

Like its namesake, the Volkswagen Atlas can carry the world on its shoulders—figuratively speaking. Two adults fit comfortably in the third row with room for luggage behind them. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard; 12-speaker Fender audio is optional. The base model comes with a 235-hp turbo four, front-wheel drive, and an eight-speed automatic. All-wheel drive is available if you choose the 276-hp V-6. Optional safety tech includes automated emergency braking and lane-keeping assist.

With a boxy shape and beefcake styling, the Atlas provides family-friendly passenger and cargo space without so much as a hint of a mom-mobile image. It’s not the fastest or the most fuel-efficient mid-size crossover, but this biggest Volkswagen earns its stars by offering practicality that’s tough to beat, along with a lithe chassis, plush ride comfort, and comfortable seats for up to seven. Technology also takes center stage: the Atlas can be had with the latest active safety features, infotainment displays with crisp graphics, and even a trendy reconfigurable digital gauge cluster. A lengthy, transferable warranty and pricing that undercuts many of the segment’s most popular choices are all additional feathers in the Atlas’s quiver – Car&Driver

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Second, there’s little getting used to the Atlas driving experience, if this will be your first great big brute of a ute. Don’t worry about its heft: though there’s a lot of vehicle surrounding you, and though you sit up high with a commanding forward view, Atlas is light at its controls, feels easily maneuverable as big utes go, and is scarcely harder to position, park, or weave around obstacles than a small car. The bricky look to the styling suggests that Atlas drives like a tank, but around town, and while parking especially, this is not the case.

Hit the highway, and some of the lightness at the controls is traded for a weightier feel. The steering heavies up a measure, and the Atlas’s weight feels more apparent when cruising. Mostly, this helps the machine stay locked into its lane with minimal need to readjust, while imparting that weighty utility vehicle feeling that many appreciate. Still, Atlas manages to avoid feeling clumsy, gigantic, or ponderous when driven the way most will drive it, most of the time. It’s a beefy cruiser, but it doesn’t feel like you’re driving a burrito truck, or like the suspension is made of coagulated gravy.

Slick all-wheel drive (AWD) system, too. In fact, as a fan of good AWD systems, I couldn’t be more excited for you to try this AWD system out – AutoTrader.ca

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Inside, the story is all about space. The middle row seating is comfortable with enough space for three taller adults to sit comfortably — the third row not so much. Now given the choice of riding back there or walking home in the rain … well, I’m staying dry. Then there’s the flexibility and space for seven and cargo. With all seats occupied, there’s 583 litres, dropping the third row opens up to 1,571 and with the lot flat there’s 2,741 litres. That, by any measure, is roomy.

The cabin is very nicely finished. When you get to the top-line Execline trim, you pretty much get everything VW has to offer, including a 12.3-inch screen for the reconfigurable instrumentation. Naturally, all the desirable power options are in place, including a panoramic moonroof and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. To the right, the centre stack is dominated by the eight-inch touchscreen that looks after all the entertainment, phone, vehicle and navigation functions, as well as giving access to a number of apps including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Rounding things out was the 13-speaker Fender sound system — it is a soulful setup with a dynamic range. Finally, lest I forget, there are 17 cup holders for seven riders - Driving.ca