Interior

The Atlas features a user-friendly dashboard. Volkswagen's signature Car-net infotainment system is the main point of attraction. This system has a rock-solid user experience design, allowing the driver to alter in-vehicle entertainment options and other controls without delay. Two massive air vents are positioned to the sides of the dashboard. Upgrade to the SEL Premium edition and you will enjoy leather seats along with a comprehensive LCD instrument cluster that replaces the regular gauges with a multi-configurable style screen. The SE edition also provides leather seats.

Sit in any of the vehicle's three rows and you will find there is more than enough room. The second row slides with ease. There is even a child seat in the second row that stays in place when the row is slid forward to permit access to the back seats. Buyers are afforded the option of selecting dual captain's chairs or a three-seat bench for the second row. The third row is especially spacious. All in all, the new Atlas seats upwards of six or seven passengers depending on the chosen configuration.

Technology

The Atlas is equipped with the following features:

• An 8-inch infotainment screen (6.5-inches on the S model)
• Available moonroof
• 6 speaker sound system
• Apple CarPlay
• Android Auto capability
• Power windows and locks
• Heated front seats
• Power driver's seat
• Four total USB ports

Performance

The '18 Atlas offers buyers a choice of two engines:

• A 6-cylinder engine with 3.6 liters and 280 horses
• A 4-cylinder engine with 2.0 liters and 238 horses

The 4-cylinder engine is tied to front-wheel drive. The 6-cylinder engine can be tied to all-wheel drive for those who are concerned with snow, ice, rain and other impediments. In terms of transmission, both engines work in tandem with an 8-speed automatic.

When it comes to fuel economy, the Atlas surpasses expectations. This is a fairly large and powerful vehicle yet it achieves 23 mpg on highways, 17 mpg in cities and 19 combined mpg. Equip your Atlas with front-wheel drive and it will achieve 25 mpg on highways, 18 mpg in cities and 20 combined mpg.

Safety

The Atlas provides the following safeguards:

• 5-star overall safety rating
• Automatic emergency braking
• Lane departure warning
• Adaptive cruise control
• Rearview camera
• Six airbags
• Anti-lock brakes
• Stability control
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• Narrow roof pillars
• Post-collision braking technology that holds the brakes following a collision to prevent the vehicle from moving if impacted again