VW Atlas Reviews: Is the 2024 Refresh Enough to Compete?

I approached the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas with high expectations, fueled by my positive experiences with our 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan. The Tiguan, a fantastic compact SUV, boasts impressive steering and handling. Driving it is always a pleasure. Therefore, stepping into the larger Atlas, I anticipated a similar level of driving enjoyment and family-friendly functionality. However, my optimism waned the moment I turned the steering wheel, a sensation akin to encountering something unexpectedly unpleasant.

Volkswagen introduced a significant refresh for the 2024 Atlas, not a complete redesign, but a substantial revision. Beyond a redesigned front and rear fascia, the interior has undergone a dramatic transformation. Departing from the Tiguan-esque cabin of the previous Atlas, the 2024 model adopts an interior aesthetic reminiscent of the Mk8 GTI and the all-electric ID.4. Unfortunately, this interior evolution feels like a step backward.

The Atlas proved to be the least engaging Volkswagen I’ve driven. This is particularly disappointing considering its inherent potential as a family SUV. Compounding matters, the market segment is now populated with compelling new SUVs that often surpass the Atlas in crucial aspects. Despite my initial hopes, the 2024 Atlas, while possessing certain merits, ultimately falls short of expectations in several key areas.

2024 VW Atlas: The Basics

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas presents a refreshed aesthetic both inside and out, accompanied by revised powertrain choices. Volkswagen streamlined the engine options, moving away from the previous combination of a 2.0-liter turbo-four and a naturally aspirated V6, and now offers only the four-cylinder across the lineup. The updated Atlas also incorporates new technology, including Volkswagen’s latest touchscreen infotainment system, and an expanded list of standard features.

While instantly recognizable as an Atlas, the 2024 model exhibits notable styling changes. The front end is entirely new, featuring redesigned headlights, a more prominent grille, and a reshaped front bumper. These alterations contribute to a broader, more substantial appearance, though not necessarily a more appealing one. The rear taillight bar is a modern touch, offering a visual upgrade from the simpler taillights of the previous generation, yet it lacks distinctive flair. The refreshed Atlas is arguably handsome, but in a market with more visually striking competitors—such as the Hyundai Palisade, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Toyota Grand Highlander—it risks blending into the background.

VW’s interior transformation for the 2024 Atlas represents a step down from its predecessor. While visually appealing, with an airy ambiance, generous wood trim, and a minimalist center console, the user experience is compromised. Volkswagen replaced its user-friendly touchscreen system with the same system found in the current Golf and ID.4. This new infotainment system is plagued with unintuitive menus and frustrating operation. Simple tasks require multiple swipes and navigating through convoluted submenus. The touch-sensitive controls, replacing physical buttons and knobs for functions like volume and temperature, are unresponsive and exacerbate the frustration. Adding to the ergonomic issues, some climate controls, including the rear defroster, are inexplicably located near the driver’s left knee, obscured beneath the headlight controls. Locating these essential functions proved to be unnecessarily challenging.

The powertrain, however, remains a strong point. While the V6 engine is no longer available, the updated four-cylinder engine receives a power increase for 2024. It now delivers 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, up from 235 hp and 258 lb-ft. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and available in either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, the 2.0-liter engine proves surprisingly capable. It accelerates the Atlas from 0 to 60 mph in around 7.5 seconds, feeling adequately powered and refined throughout the rev range. The eight-speed automatic transmission provides smooth and responsive shifts. A notable drawback is the artificial engine noise in Sport mode, which is excessively aggressive and unconvincing.

Driving the Volkswagen Atlas: A Disappointing Experience

Despite the competent powertrain, the driving dynamics of the 2024 Atlas are a letdown. While the Tiguan offers engaging steering and handling, the Atlas feels ponderous and imprecise. The steering is overly light and lacks feedback, offering minimal connection to the road. Compared to competitors like the Toyota Grand Highlander and Mazda CX-90, which offer more refined driving experiences, the Atlas falls short. While it’s a large SUV intended for family duties, driving enjoyment shouldn’t be entirely sacrificed.

On a positive note, the Atlas delivers a comfortable ride, effectively absorbing bumps and maintaining composure. The cabin is also well-insulated from road noise, contributing to a relaxed driving experience. For those prioritizing ride comfort for daily commutes, the Atlas performs adequately. However, rivals like the Grand Highlander and CX-90 demonstrate that it is possible to achieve both a comfortable ride and engaging handling characteristics.

Highs and Lows of the VW Atlas

The Atlas isn’t without its merits. The three-row cabin is exceptionally spacious, offering ample storage and a sense of openness. Large windows provide excellent outward visibility, a valuable asset in a vehicle of this size. Volkswagen’s driver-assistance systems, including automatic emergency braking and rear cross-traffic alert, function effectively.

However, the drawbacks outweigh the positives. Beyond the frustrating infotainment system and lackluster steering, the digital instrument cluster is uninspired and cluttered. The base SE trim seats lack sufficient support for longer journeys, and the overly tight cupholders can lead to spills when removing drinks.

VW Atlas Features, Options, and Market Competition

The 2024 Atlas SE starts at $39,420 and includes standard features like heated and ventilated front seats, three-zone climate control, leatherette upholstery, and a 12-inch infotainment system. All-wheel drive (4Motion) is optional, adding $1,900 to the base price.

The test vehicle included the Technology Package, which adds 20-inch wheels, illuminated VW badges, park distance control, a tow hitch, manual sunshades, and remote start. This package brought the price to $43,015, still without a sunroof.

While the Atlas is a decent SUV in isolation, its competitive landscape reveals its shortcomings. The Hyundai Palisade, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Grand Highlander offer fresher designs and often more standard features. Furthermore, hybrid powertrains are increasingly common in this segment, available in models like the Toyota Grand Highlander and Jeep Grand Cherokee, offering improved fuel efficiency.

Fuel Economy: Not a Standout

Despite its four-cylinder engine, the Atlas’s fuel economy is not significantly better than its V6-powered competitors like the Palisade and Pilot. It achieves 19 mpg in the city, matching rivals, and 22 mpg on the highway, resulting in a combined 22 mpg. The Grand Highlander surpasses the Atlas on the highway, achieving 23 mpg combined.

Value and Final Verdict on VW Atlas Reviews

In terms of pricing and features, the Volkswagen Atlas aligns with its competitors. However, its cabin technology and design feel dated, unsurprising given its platform dates back to 2017.

Ultimately, the Atlas’s execution is where it falters. While possessing fundamental strengths as a spacious, comfortable three-row SUV with a capable powertrain, the frustrating infotainment system, imprecise steering, and ergonomic shortcomings detract from the overall experience. Lacking a standout feature and failing to outperform competitors in key areas, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas emerges as a weaker contender in the three-row SUV segment.