2024 VW Atlas SUV: Big Changes Inside And Out

November 7th, 2024 by

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas arrives with a significant refresh, bringing substantial changes to its interior and exterior. This mid-cycle update aims to keep VW’s largest SUV competitive in the crowded three-row segment. 

Volkswagen Atlas

Volkswagen Atlas

Exterior Enhancements: Subtle Yet Impactful

While the overall silhouette of the Atlas remains familiar, Volkswagen has made several exterior updates that give the 2024 model a more modern and sophisticated appearance.

New Lighting Signature

One of the most noticeable changes is the new lighting design:

  • LED headlights are now standard across all trims
  • Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) is included, improving visibility around corners
  • A striking LED light bar spans the width of the grille on higher trims, creating a distinctive nighttime signature
  • Redesigned LED taillights feature a full-width light strip, echoing the front design

Refreshed Fascias

The front and rear fascias have been updated:

  • A more prominent grille design with a bolder chrome accent
  • Revised bumper styling with updated air intakes
  • New rear bumper design with integrated exhaust outlets

Wheel Options

  • New alloy wheel designs ranging from 18 to 21 inches
  • The SEL Premium R-Line trim offers exclusive 21-inch two-tone machined alloy wheels

Colour Palette

  • Introduction of new exterior colours, including Mountain Lake Blue and Pure Grey
  • Avocado Green, previously exclusive to the Atlas Peak Edition, is now available on other trims

Atlas Interior Overhaul: A Leap in Quality and Technology

The most significant changes for the 2024 Atlas can be found inside the cabin. Volkswagen has addressed previous criticisms about interior quality with a comprehensive update.

Upscale Materials

  • Soft-touch materials now cover most touchpoints
  • Available quilted leather upholstery on upper trims
  • New trim options including wood, brushed metal, and carbon-fibre-look materials

Redesigned Dashboard

  • A sleeker, more modern design with a horizontal emphasis
  • Improved ergonomics with a driver-centric layout

Advanced Infotainment

  • Standard 12.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system (up from 8.0 inches)
  • 10.3-inch Digital Cockpit Pro (digital instrument cluster) is now standard
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
  • Available Harman Kardon premium audio system with 10 speakers and a subwoofer

New Control Interface

  • Touch-sensitive sliders for volume and climate control replace traditional knobs and buttons
  • Customizable ambient lighting with 30 colour options

Comfort Enhancements

  • Ventilated front seats are now standard on all trims
  • Available heated steering wheel and heated second-row seats
  • Optional massaging function for front seats on top trims

Powertrain Revolution: Farewell V6, Hello Turbo Four

One of the most significant changes for the 2024 Atlas is under the hood. Volkswagen has streamlined the engine lineup, focusing on efficiency without compromising performance.

New Standard Engine

  • The VR6 V6 engine has been discontinued
  • A revised 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is now the sole option
  • Output: 269 horsepower and 370 Nm of torque
  • This represents an increase of 34 horsepower over the previous four-cylinder option

Transmission and Drivetrain

  • 8-speed automatic transmission remains standard
  • Available 4Motion all-wheel-drive system
  • Towing capacity remains impressive at 2,268 kg

Improved Efficiency

  • EPA-estimated fuel economy ranges from 10.2 to 11.7 L/100km combined, depending on configuration
  • This marks an improvement over both the previous four-cylinder and V6 options

Chassis and Driving Dynamics

While the Atlas retains its fundamental chassis architecture, Volkswagen has made some tweaks to enhance the driving experience.

Suspension Refinements

  • Retuned suspension for improved ride comfort
  • Better body control in corners without sacrificing compliance

Steering Updates

  • Revised electric power steering system for improved feel and response
  • Lighter steering effort at low speeds for easier maneuverability

Braking Enhancements

  • Larger front brake rotors for improved stopping power
  • Updated brake pedal feel for more confident deceleration

Atlas Technology and Safety Features

The 2024 Atlas has an array of advanced technology and safety features, many of which are now standard across the lineup.

Driver Assistance Systems

  • IQ.DRIVE suite of driver assistance features is now standard on all trims
  • Includes Travel Assist (semi-automated driving assistance)
  • Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go
  • Lane Keeping System
  • Front and Rear Park Distance Control

Connectivity

  • Car-Net telematics system with a 5-year complimentary subscription
  • Available Wi-Fi hotspot capability
  • Remote start via smartphone app

Convenience Features

  • Hands-free power liftgate is now available on more trims
  • 360-degree camera system for easier parking and maneuvering

Trim Levels and Packaging

Volkswagen has simplified the Atlas lineup by introducing new options to cater to customer preferences.

Trim Structure

  • SE: Base trim with an impressive list of standard features
  • SE with Technology: Adds more convenience and tech features
  • SEL: Mid-range trim with luxury appointments
  • SEL Premium R-Line: Top-of-the-line trim with all the bells and whistles

New Peak Edition

  • Introduced as a rugged-looking variant
  • Features unique styling elements and all-terrain tires
  • Positioned as an adventure-ready option in the lineup

Practicality and Space

The Atlas continues to excel in terms of interior space and practicality, which have always been its strong suits.

Cargo Capacity

  • 583 liters behind the third row
  • 1,572 liters behind the second row
  • 2,741 liters with both rear rows folded

Seating Configuration

  • Standard seven-seat layout with a second-row bench
  • Available six-seat configuration with second-row captain’s chairs

Clever Storage Solutions

  • Multiple storage compartments throughout the cabin
  • Large center console with ample storage space

Market Positioning and Competition

The 2024 Atlas enters a highly competitive segment, facing off against established rivals and newer entrants.

Key Competitors

  • Kia Telluride
  • Hyundai Palisade
  • Honda Pilot
  • Toyota Highlander
  • Ford Explorer

Volkswagen’s Strategy

  • Position the Atlas as a value proposition with premium features
  • Emphasize the spacious interior and German engineering
  • Target families and buyers who need a versatile, large SUV

A Significant Step Forward

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas represents a substantial improvement over its predecessor. With its refreshed exterior, vastly improved interior, new powertrain, and enhanced technology features, the Atlas is better equipped to compete in the crowded three-row SUV segment.

Key takeaways:

  1. Modernized exterior design with distinctive lighting elements
  2. Dramatically improved interior quality and technology
  3. More powerful and efficient turbocharged four-cylinder engine
  4. Expanded list of standard safety and convenience features
  5. Retained spaciousness and practicality

While some may miss the V6 option, the new turbo four-cylinder should provide ample power for most drivers while offering better fuel efficiency. The touch-sensitive controls may be a point of contention for some users, but they contribute to the more modern, streamlined interior aesthetic.

Overall, the 2024 Atlas addresses many of the criticisms of the previous model while building on its strengths. It remains a compelling option for families and individuals needing a spacious, well-equipped SUV with a European flair. As Volkswagen continues to evolve its lineup, the Atlas stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to meeting the needs of the North American market.

Posted in New Vehicles