Volkswagen’s biggest model has undergone a refresh for the 2024 model year, with the Atlas receiving many upgrades, including a new powertrain and redesigned styling, most noticeable up front with a new fascia and headlight design. The wheels on the Atlas have also been completely redesigned, including 21-inch models on the R Line version, such as our tester.
The Atlas is offered in four trims by Volkswagen, starting with the Comfortline trim, with a Peak Edition and Highline trim also available. Our tester was the top tier Execline model, with a starting price of $59,995. The only option added to our Silverbird Metallic ride was the Captain’s Chair Package for the second row at $700.
Powertrain: In addition to the revised styling, the Atlas receives a new turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, which is an increase of 34 horsepower and 15 lb-ft over the previous generation engine.
It is paired to an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, and the Atlas features a 4MOTION all-wheel drive system.
I found the engine to be smooth and powerful enough for the Atlas, and the 4MOTION system did well on snow-covered drives.
The fuel efficiency rating for the Atlas is estimated at a combined 10.8 litres per 100 kilometres, but I missed that mark considerably with an average of 15.6 L/100 km.
Not only is the Atlas a good family hauler, but it can also handle a maximum towing capacity of 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs.).
Exterior: The Atlas’s revised front end is big and bold, which definitely grabs the attention. And other than the base Comfortline trim, it includes enhanced exterior LED lighting with front light bar, as well as front/rear illuminated VW badges. This is a feature from VW I really like on several models.
Unique to the Execline is a set of elegant 21-inch machined alloy wheels, as well as R-Line exterior design elements.
Interior: The Atlas cabin is very spacious, with the Shetland Beige Leather interior helping it feel even larger thanks to the light tone.
The Execline comes with heated front and second-row seats, ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, second row sunshades and interior ambient lighting.
The Atlas can seat up to seven occupants, but with the optional Captain’s Chairs in the second row, that is down to six. For families with siblings who never get along during road trips, a little space between them thanks to the optional seating configuration is probably not a bad thing.
The third row offers very respectable seating, but when folded flat opens up a ton of cargo space. But even while in use, the Atlas offers a good amount of room for your stuff.
Up front, the buttons are kept to a strict minimum, with most functions being controlled via the infotainment screen. Personally, I would opt for more buttons and less screen controls.
One thing I did find odd was that the buttons to activate the front and rear defrosters were off to the left of the steering wheel, with the headlight controls. Took a while to figure that out.
The Execline features heads-up display, a feature I always appreciate. And in additional to the infotainment screen, the Atlas offers a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster.
Infotainment: Featuring a 12-inch infotainment screen, the Atlas Execline comes equipped with an excellent Harman Kardon premium audio system with 10 speakers and a subwoofer.
The system itself is pretty straightforward to use, with clear menus and a good response time to user inputs.
Right below the screen are touch sensitive controls for the volume, power and even the temperature of the ventilation system.
It offers wireless compatibility for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as wireless device charging and satellite radio.
Drive: Despite its size, the Atlas was a pretty enjoyable ride. The cabin is comfortable and quiet, and well isolated from both road noise and the imperfections of the pavement.
Power is good and the transmission is smooth, while handling and steering response are both nicely set up in the Atlas.
2024 Volkswagen Atlas Execline
2024 Volkswagen Atlas Execline
2024 Volkswagen Atlas Execline
2024 Volkswagen Atlas Execline
Conclusion: While I would prefer some simpler and more traditional controls for some of its systems, the overall feeling from the Atlas is positive.
The new looks are nice, as is the power from the revised engine.
And with room for six or seven passengers, generous cargo capacity and good towing capacity, the Atlas is able to do more than just bring the kids to their school, sports or activities.
2024 Atlas Execline
Price as tested: $62,845.00
Freight: $2,050.00
Configuration: Front engine/All-wheel drive
Engine/transmission: Turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder/ 8-speed automatic
Power/torque: 269 horsepower/ 273 lb-ft of torque
Fuel (capacity): Regular (70 L)
Combined fuel economy ratings (L/100 km): 10.8 L/100 km
Observed fuel economy (L/100 km): 15.6 L/100 km
Warranties: 4-years/80,000 km (basic)
Competitors: Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Kia Telluride, Mazda CX-90, Toyota Highlander
Website: Volkswagen Canada