History
This is still the first generation of the Volkswagen Atlas, the company's biggest vehicle and a full-size three-row family-ready model. After skipping the 2020 model year, the lineup has expanded with a shorter Atlas Cross Sport two-row model so the Atlas has gotten some changes to keep it fresh.
What's New
This year, the changes start with a new three-bar grille and new headlights along with bumpers that make the Atlas 75 mm longer. A new steering wheel keeps the cabin modern and leather-trimmed models gain contrast stitching for a more premium feel. All-wheel drive is standard across the board and the four-cylinder is available on more trims.
Available Trims
The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas is offered in Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, and Execline. The first gets only a 2.0L turbo-four while Comfortline and Highline get a 3.6L V6 or the turbo-four. Execline is V6 only and all have an eight-speed auto.
Standard Features
Trendline starts with cruise control and hill descent control as well as blind-spot monitoring, front assist emergency braking, and automatic headlights. USB-C charging is included as is a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Tinted glass and rain-sensing wipers as well as 18-inch alloys, and heated front seats are all part of the package.
Comfortline adds parking sensors front and rear, adaptive cruise, and dynamic rear camera lines. Voice control is added to the infotainment system that now has four USB ports and an 8.0-inch screen. Three-zone climate control, remote start, and keyless access as well as a 10-way power driver seat are all included with leatherette seating and a heated wheel. Highline adds dynamic lights, 20-inch alloys, and a panoramic roof as well as perforated seating, ventilated front chairs and heated rears.
Top-spec Execline adds 360-degree camera views, road sign display, lane keep assist and traffic jam assist lane-steering, park assist, and light assist plus 12-speaker Fender audio, digital cockpit display, and navigation.
Key Options
The big options here are captain's chairs instead of a second-row bench and for Execline and R-Line package with 21-inch alloys, special fascias front and rear, and an R-Line-badged steering wheel.
Fuel Economy
Four Cylinder VW Atlas models should return an estimated 9.9 L/100 km city, 11.7 highway. With the V6 expect 13.8/10.2.
Competition
The Atlas is in one of the most competitive segments in the industry, against the likes of the larger Chevrolet Traverse and slightly smaller GMC Acadia as well as the Ford Explorer, rugged Kia Telluride, luxurious Hyundai Palisade, and quiet Buick Enclave.
