When the box is 2022 Volkswagen’s enormous three-row Atlas SUV, living in a box isn’t so bad. Contrary to many other three-row mid-sizers in the platoon, the Atlas has a rearmost seat that is roomy enough to accommodate adults. A 235-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a 276-hp V-6 engine with a 5000-pound towing capacity power the Atlas. Both engines can be selected with either front- or all-wheel drive and both come with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Let’s explore it further.
What Is New?
For 2022, Volkswagen streamlines the Atlas trim levels and modifies some of the equipment. The former Atlas S model is no longer available, therefore the new five-trim lineup is led by the base Atlas SE. All models above SE now come standard with VW’s 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro instrument panel.
Which One Is The Best?
The best model is the SE with the Technology package and a V-6 engine. All-wheel drive with 4Motion can be added for $1900. An 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, adaptive cruise control, three-zone climate control, and remote start are just a few of the goodies included in our sample. We would also include the second-row captain’s seats and the 5000-pound towing capacity of the Atlas’s towing hook.
How Are The Performance And Transmission?
The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas comes with either a 235-hp four-cylinder or a 276-hp V-6 engine. Both come with an eight-speed automatic transmission and either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. There are no chills in the cabin as a result of the tuned V-6’s smooth sound and feel. Despite the mediocre acceleration of the most modern four-cylinder and V-6 variants we evaluated, they rarely seemed underpowered when driving. Despite being less fun to drive than the Mazda CX-9, the Atlas always seems responsive to directional inputs. It is nimble and calm both in the city and on the highway. The ride is smooth and only the toughest potholes sensed.
What About The Towing And Pay-load Capacity?
Every Atlas with the 276-hp V-6 comes with a trailer hitch that already installed by Volkswagen. The maximum towing capability of the six-cylinder variants is 5000 pounds, matching that of the Subaru Ascent and Toyota 4Runner. The Atlas’s hauling capacity for four-cylinder variants is 2000 pounds.
Overall, The Atlas is a practical choice, particularly when compared to other incredibly practical competitors, thanks to its family-friendly interior space, user-friendly control set-up, and an abundance of cupholders. Another key bonus is the third row of seats, which are easily big enough to accommodate people. Families may love the Atlas’s utilitarian and straightforward interior, but aesthetic enthusiasts may not. It should be able to take practically anything a suburban family can throw at it because there several thoughtfully designed storage nooks around the cabin to conceal little items.