Atlas is a successor of VW Tiguan. The vehicle is still fresh and we are not expecting any updates for the 2020 and 2021 season. However, the 2021 VW Atlas might get some changes while we are waiting for the first facelift. Well, there are no details about this update. Anyway, the SUV will remain a seven-seater with nearly luxury equipment. Its price is slightly higher. We’ll see what is going on under the bonnet since some sources claim the hybrid engine might become part of the lineup soon.
If you want to buy the 2021 VW Atlas, you will have to wait until the last quarter of 2020. Also, pay attention to the pros and cons of this model. Here are some things we love about Atlas. Fuel economy is above average. An optional V6 is also a fuel-friendly and reliable unit. Although a mid-size model, the driving impression is like you are driving a much smaller vehicle. With the improved maneuvering, you can even go off-road. The 4Motion AWD and eight inches under the body are enough for some adventures. The infotainment system also deserves praise with a huge touchscreen display and optional safety features.
The big SUV also lacks some things. For example, you can find difficult parking it in tight urban areas. A smaller Tiguan has a Parallel parking feature. All-wheel drive is a great upgrade, but also pretty expensive and harms fuel economy. The infotainment system will have to upgrade voice commands.
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Engine Range: Four-Pot and V6
The engine range for the 2021 VW Atlas will be unchanged. The German carmaker is relying on two different configurations that provide enough power for the mid-size model. It is not usual to see a four-cylinder powerplant, but a 2.0-liter mill gets turbochargers to put out maximum energy. Its 235 hp needs just over 7 seconds to accelerate 0-60 mph. The engine also produces 260 pound-feet of torque. If we have to point to a downside of this engine, that would be a towing capacity. The small block cannot pull more than 2,000 pounds. The company mates an engine with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, as a part of the 4Motion package.
A V6 is definitely more capable than the turbo-four. First of all, the 3.6-liter unit delivers 275 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. That increases the towing capacity to 5,000 pounds. The extra power doesn’t mean the 2021 VW Atlas is quicker. Contrary, the V6 engine needs more time to accelerate 0-60 mph. You can choose between a front- and all-wheel drive. Famous 4Motion is a recommended upgrade.
2021 VW Atlas Trim Levels, Changes
We could see the 2021 VW Atlas test mules wearing camouflage on the nose. That indicates the company is preparing the facelift of its largest SUV in the United States. However, there are no official updates from Volkswagen. The famous MLB platform underpins this SUV. Atlas shares the same architecture with Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne.
The changes is definitely not bringing the big redesign, since the vehicle is still relatively fresh. The design of the Atlas is something that makes it different from other models in the same class.
The base version is S, for both engine configurations. Turbo model also comes in SE trim level. A subclass trim is adding Technology package. All three versions will use a 4Motion AWD. If you want the V6 engine, there are three trim levels – S, SE, and SEL. The entry-level model comes with 4Motion system, and that’s all. If you pick a mid-range SE trim, you will find configuration with Technology and R-Line add-ons. Top of the class SEL model adds the Premium trim level with most accessories and upgrades.
What is Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport?
The 2021 VW Atlas will be a seven-seater SUV. This class is quite popular recently. However, the company will build another Atlas, called Cross Sport, to introduce a five-seat model with a shorter wheelbase. The SUV is gaining agility and a better fuel economy. The new model will compete with Nissan Murano, Ford Edge, and other mid-size two-row SUVs.
2021 VW Atlas Tanoak Truck
It is not an SUV, but the arrival of the VW pickup truck will shake things up on the market. What it has to do with Atlas? According to rumors, the company plans to use its name. Amarok is a truck for non-US markets, while Atlas is already a recognized brand. On the other hand, the pickup will draw more attention and it will positively affect the SUV.
Pricing
The 2021 VW Atlas is going to be slightly more expensive than the competition. The base price is under $31,000. But, that is for the model with four-pot engine. The good thing – you will get an AWD. For a V6, you must pay at least $34,000. Again, the 4Motion system is included in offer, while the destination fee is paid separately. An SE with FWD costs $35,500, while the standard configuration of the SEL trim starts at $41,500. The Premium model and AWD will cost nearly $50,000.
