2019 Volkswagen Atlas review

1. Eye-catching exterior

The Atlas features a modern, muscular design with sharp, clean lines adding up to a striking appearance. All 2019 trims come standard with full LED front lighting, while LED taillights leave a lasting impression on SEL and SEL Premium models. A large panoramic sunroof with a two-part glass opening system and power sunshade is also available on 2019 SE with Technology models and standard on the SEL and SEL Premium. Want to stand out even more? 2019 R-Line models grab attention with special R-Line badging, stylish side skirting, and sporty air intakes in the front and rear bumpers.

2. Two powertrain options

The 2019 VW Atlas features two energetic powertrains: a turbo 2.0L four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque and a 3.6L V6 with 276 horsepower and 266 lb.-ft. of torque. The four-cylinder comes standard on the base level trim and returns an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway on 2019 models with FWD—great if you're looking to buy a fuel-friendly family vehicle.

If power is what you are after, you can opt for the V6 as optional equipment on the S trim or as standard on SE and higher trims (2019 models). This powerplant delivers an estimated towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. when properly equipped, which can pull your boat or trailer quite easily. V6 fuel economy with FWD is an EPA-estimated 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, while AWD is an EPA-estimated 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway (2019 models).

3. Adaptable capability

Need a vehicle to help you tackle harsh conditions on the fly? The 2019 Atlas is there for you no matter what Mother Nature throws your way. All 2019 trims offer Volkswagen's 4MOTION^® All-Wheel-Drive system, which automatically redirects power to the wheels that need it most, allowing you to adjust to the conditions in real-time. All 2019 models also boast a special drive feature called Active Control with specific settings to suit whatever conditions your find yourself in, including Snow, Onroad, Offroad, and Custom Offroad, as well as Normal, Sport, Comfort, and Individual. Whether cruising down a gravel-covered path or tough terrain, the 2019 Atlas is design to inspire confidence with its ability to adapt.

4. Family-friendly interior

With space for seven passengers, the 2019 Atlas is a skilled people-mover for families both big and small. The third row is easy to access since the second-row features a 7.7-inch sliding range. Bringing the friends buddies with you? Adults will find no shortage of stretch-out space in this 2019 SUV with 37.6 inches of legroom in the second row and 33.7 inches in the third row.

5. Premium technology

With the 2019 Atlas, you don't need to climb trim levels to get the tech features that you value most. Starting from the base level, you'll find Volkswagen Car-Net^® App-Connect standard on all 2019 Atlas trims, which lets you access your favorite smartphone apps with Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™ capabilities. SE and higher trims add Car-Net Security & Service, which provides remote access to the 2019 Atlas via a smartphone app, while SEL and SEL Premium models include a navigation system called Car-Net Guide & Inform. Anchoring the dash of this 2019 VW is a 6.5-inch touchscreen display on S trims, but SE and higher models receive a larger eight-inch touchscreen display. A rearview camera comes standard on all 2019 models as well.