Volkswagen used to rarely update their lineup. But times have changed and the three-year-old Atlas has new front and rear styling for the new year.
A new grill and lights give the popular VW three-row SUV a more upscale look. The blocky style is a bit softer, but the flared fenders over the big wheels help with the curb appeal.
Where the Atlas impresses is in cabin size for the mid-size SUV/crossover class with three usable rows of seating for real adults. Access to the third row is easier than most of its competitors, even with a car seat in the second row.
There is still cargo space remaining when all the seats are in use, something not all three row Utes offer. The radio and other controls are easy to use and the 8-inch touch screen works well. It responds quickly, which wasn’t always the case with VW products.
My tester came with a V6 but you can get the Atlas with a turbo four-cylinder engine as well. The VW Atlas sees upgrades in many places but the engine choices and power didn’t get any attention.
The V6 could have used a few more ponies when merging into traffic with five seats filled. I found the ride a bright spot of the VW Atlas. It straddles the line nicely between comfort for our bumpy roads and confident handling.
Cost: $42,615 (as tested)
MPG: 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway; I managed 19.3 mpg in 237 miles of mixed driving.
Safety: Dynamic road sign assist; adaptive cruise control stop & go; park distance control front & rear; forward collision warning & autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian monitor; lane-keep assist & traffic jam assist; active blind spot monitor & rear cross traffic alert; high beam control; automatic post-collision braking system.
Things to know: The 2021 Atlas packs a fresh new face and updated technology to compete in the popular three row SUV/crossover class. Its strongest asset is a spacious interior that others just can’t match for a good value.
Pros:
• Improved style with a more upscale look
• Ample space for a three row mid-size crossover class
• Pricing is very competitive
Cons:
• Could use a bit more power
• Fuel economy isn’t very good with the V6
• Some might find the size a bit daunting at first
