The 2024 Atlas receives positive reviews as a reliable SUV. It boasts a newly redesigned interior that is both spacious and aesthetically pleasing. The SUV features a more powerful turbo-4 engine and an impressive warranty, contributing to its improved scoring. The 2024 Atlas receives a commendable TCC Rating of 6.5 out of 10, reflecting its overall quality and appeal.
Volkswagen has introduced several updates to the 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport. These include refreshed exterior designs, updated technology features, and a more efficient turbo-4 engine. The previous V-6 engine option has been discontinued.
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The standard Atlas presents a conventional three-row crossover SUV design with a boxy and robust appearance. It showcases a prominent four-slot grille, LED headlights, and a connected light bar spanning the rear lights. On the other hand, the Atlas Cross Sport offers a slightly shorter length and a more streamlined roofline, resembling crossover coupes. Regardless of the model, both versions can be equipped with 18- or 21-inch wheels, enhancing their individual style.
Significant improvements can be observed in the interior of the 2024 Atlas. The SUV now features a standard 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.0-inch touchscreen that controls the climate settings. The center console has been revamped with a tiered design, an electronic gear shifter, and ample storage space. The overall interior finish and quality have received a substantial upgrade, rectifying previous criticisms and bringing it in line with competitors.
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Under the hood, the new 2.0-liter turbo-4 engine generates 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This represents a 34 horsepower increase compared to the outgoing turbo-4 engine. The new turbo-4 performs on par with the discontinued V-6 engine, delivering a satisfying driving experience. The Atlas boasts a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 7.5 seconds and comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is available across the lineup. The SUV maintains a composed ride, and the new turbo-4 engine surpasses the performance of its predecessors. However, some may prefer smaller wheels for an optimized driving experience, and a slight improvement in steering weight would be desirable.
One of the standout features of the 2024 Atlas is its spacious cabin. The seven-seat Atlas provides ample room for passengers, including two adults in the third row. Second-row passengers benefit from 37.6 inches of legroom and can choose between a three-seat bench or twin captain’s chairs. The Atlas Cross Sport eliminates the third row but retains a substantial cargo area with over 40 cubic feet of space.
Safety is a priority for Volkswagen, and the 2024 Atlas comes equipped with standard driver-assist technologies such as automatic emergency braking, active lane control, and blind-spot monitors. As the frame and body remain unchanged from the previous model, it is expected that the mixed crash test results will carry over to the 2024 version.
In terms of pricing, the front-wheel-drive Atlas SE starts at $39,075 and includes features like 18-inch wheels, adaptive LED headlights, a power driver seat, heated and cooled front seats, a 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and a 12.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Additionally, it comes with a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty, including 2 years of free scheduled service. The Atlas Cross Sport versions are slightly more expensive, and adding all-wheel drive to the base model costs an extra $1,900.
Among the lineup, the recommended choice is the SE with the $3,940 Technology Package, which adds parking sensors, remote start, and a power tailgate. For those seeking more premium features, the $47,905 Peak Edition offers black wheels and trim, a sunroof, and ambient lighting. The top-of-the-line $53,805 Atlas SEL R-Line includes 21-inch wheels, leather seats, Harman Kardon audio, a power front passenger seat, navigation, a head-up display, heated second-row seats, a sunroof, and a surround-view camera system.
The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas is manufactured in Chattanooga, Tennessee, alongside the VW ID.4 electric car, emphasizing Volkswagen’s commitment to American production.
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