2021 Volkswagen Atlas
What’s new
- Restyled front and rear bodywork
- Upgraded interior appointments
- Part of the first Atlas generation introduced for 2018
Pros & Cons
- Spacious interior offers ample passenger room in all three rows
- Great compromise between precise handling and everyday comfort
- Straightforward, easy-to-use cabin design
- Lackluster acceleration, even with the optional V6
- Lower fuel economy than most competitors
2021 Volkswagen Atlas pricing
in Ashburn, VA
2021 Volkswagen Atlas Review
The Volkswagen Atlas was VW's first swing at a three-row midsize SUV, and the automaker knocked it out of the park. Its roomy cabin and comfortable ride helped place it near the top of the pack when it debuted in 2018. But new competitors and a rapidly evolving market mean Volkswagen feels the need to offer some updates to keep the Atlas fresh.
On the outside, the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas gets restyled headlights, bumpers, taillights and a new grille. The interior receives some mild changes such as a new steering wheel and the addition of new driver aids including a system that can scan traffic signs. This latter feature can help you know what the speed limit of the road you're on, even if you didn't see the sign yourself.
Alas, the Atlas is powered by the same engines as before: a turbocharged 235-horsepower four-cylinder and a 276-hp six-cylinder engine. We think Volkswagen missed an opportunity here to add some power under the hood since even the optional six-cylinder lacks the power to get this big SUV moving with any real authority. Overall, though, the 2021 VW Atlas is still a compelling contender among three-row family SUVs.
What's it like to live with?
Want to know even more about the Atlas? Edmunds added a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas SE with Technology to our long-term road test fleet. Our editors spent a year driving Volkswagen's biggest SUV, racking up more than 20,000 miles. Check out our VW Atlas long-term test coverage to read more about what we learned, from real-world fuel economy to reliability. Note that while the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas differs slightly from our long-term 2018 model, nearly all of our observations still apply.
Our verdict
7.9 / 10How does it drive?
8.0As much as the direct steering helps the Atlas feel nimble, it's no athlete. Sure, its ultimate handling grip is above average, but mostly it feels heavy and resistant to midcorner adjustments. The Atlas is great to wheel around town. Just don't expect agility on curvy roads.
How comfortable is it?
8.0Ride comfort is pretty nice. The ride feels settled and not floaty, and most small or large bumps will go unnoticed. There's some road noise, and the large mirrors generate wind noise at highway speeds, but it's nothing the audio system can't conceal. The V6 engine thankfully makes a pleasant noise when you rev it out.
How’s the interior?
8.5It does take some time to become familiar with VW's Digital Cockpit instrumentation, but once you're accustomed to it, functionality is wide-ranging. One downside to the touchscreen infotainment system interface is having to look at what you're pressing, which takes attention away from driving.
How’s the tech?
8.0The adaptive cruise control maintained a really small gap for such a big car, and the lane keeping assist is subtle but effective. The rearview camera system provides crisp, clear images on the infotainment system, which is handy for parking.
How’s the storage?
8.0The Atlas offers a good amount of storage space for small items, but there are no clear storage cubbies for items such as sunglasses or sectioned compartments in the center armrest bin. The second row packs plenty of space, and there shouldn't be any issues fitting a rear-facing car seat there. The second row is also designed to tilt and slide with a seat installed.
How economical is it?
6.0Is it a good value?
7.0For 2020, Volkswagen has reduced the length of its previously excellent warranties. But what you get is still a little better than the industry average.
Wildcard
7.5Which Atlas does Edmunds recommend?
Volkswagen Atlas models
The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas is a midsize three-row SUV sold in eight trim levels. It is powered by your choice of two engines, though their availability across trims is quite confusing.
The base engine is a turbocharged 235-horsepower four-cylinder engine. It comes standard on S and SE levels, plus the front-wheel-drive SE with Technology and all-wheel-drive versions of the SEL and SEL Premium. All other configurations are powered by a 276-hp V6. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional.
S
Standard features of the base Atlas S include:
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- LED headlights
- A 60/40-split second-row bench seat and 50/50-split third-row bench
- 6.5-inch touchscreen
- Six-speaker audio system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
- In-car Wi-Fi hotspot
- Volkswagen's Car-Net app services
The S also comes with these safety features:
- Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
- Blind-spot monitor (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
- Rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle behind you is about to cross your vehicle's path while in reverse)
SE
The SE adds a host of convenience features, including:
- Power liftgate
- Keyless entry and ignition
- Three-zone automatic climate control
- Power driver's seat
- Heated front seats
- Simulated leather upholstery
- Second-row USB ports
- Manual rear window sunshades
- 8-inch touchscreen
- Voice controls
- Wireless charging pad
SE with Technology
The SE with Technology primarily adds driver assistance features, but a few other extras are included as well:
- 20-inch wheels
- Hands-free tailgate
- Remote engine start
- Household-style power outlet
- Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Atlas and the car in front)
- Front and rear parking sensors (alerts you to obstacles that may not be visible behind or in front of the vehicle when parking)
There are several options packages starting at this level, including:
- Second-row captain's chairs
- Panoramic sunroof
- Towing package with 5,000-pound towing capacity (V6 models only)
SE with Technology R-Line
This trim comes standard with the V6 engine. It also adds:
- Dark gray wheels
- Restyled bumpers and lower door trim
- Sporty interior accents
SEL
The SEL builds off the SE with Technology trim. A panoramic sunroof is standard at this level, as is the Towing package when you opt for a V6 engine. Other add-ons include:
- Digital instrument panel
- Heated steering wheel
- Driver-seat memory settings
- Power passenger seat
- Navigation system
- Lane departure mitigation (warns you of a lane departure when a turn signal isn't used and can automatically steer to maintain lane position)
- Adaptive headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
SEL R-Line
The SEL R-Line essentially marries the SEL trim with the R-Line's styling upgrades and standard V6. It also includes 21-inch wheels.
SEL Premium
The SEL Premium is the most feature-packed Atlas available. It starts with SEL content and all-wheel drive, then adds:
- Ventilated front seats
- Heated second-row seats
- Leather upholstery
- Ambient interior lighting
- 12-speaker Fender premium audio system
- Automated parking system (steers into a parking spot with no driver intervention)
- 360-degree camera (gives you a top-down view of the car for tight parking situations)
SEL Premium R-Line
This top-of-the-line trim pairs the SEL R-Line's upgrades with SEL Premium's features.
Sponsored cars related to the Atlas
Features & Specs
| S 4dr SUV 2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $31,545 |
| MPG | 21 city / 24 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 7 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 235 hp @ 4500 rpm |
| S 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD 2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $33,445 |
| MPG | 20 city / 24 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 7 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 235 hp @ 4500 rpm |
| V6 SEL Premium 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD 3.6L 6cyl 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $48,995 |
| MPG | 16 city / 22 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 7 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 276 hp @ 6200 rpm |
| SE w/Technology 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD 2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $38,795 |
| MPG | 20 city / 24 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 7 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 235 hp @ 4500 rpm |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Atlas safety features:
- Blind-Spot Monitor
- Alerts you with visual and audible warnings if other vehicles are in your blind spot.
- Park Distance Control
- Alerts you if you are approaching an object in front of or behind the Atlas while parking.
- Lane Keeping System
- Sounds an alert when you drift from your lane due to inattention and can automatically steer to help out.
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
| Side Impact Test | Good |
|---|---|
| Roof Strength Test | Good |
| Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint | Good |
| IIHS Small Overlap Front Test | Not Tested |
| Moderate Overlap Front Test | Good |
Volkswagen Atlas vs. the competition
Volkswagen Atlas vs. Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot is one of our favorite midsize three-row SUVs. It isn't as spacious as the Atlas, but the Pilot makes up for it with a premium cabin design and a more dynamic feel from behind the wheel. If you want to learn more about a Pilot of this generation, you can read our long-term road test.
Volkswagen Atlas vs. Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride was a newcomer last year, but it quickly won us over. Roomy, comfortable and chock full of features, the Telluride offers everything you want in a three-row SUV at a price that undercuts rivals by thousands. With no real faults, it's our top-rated vehicle in its class. If you want to learn more about a Telluride of this generation, you can read our long-term road test.
Volkswagen Atlas vs. Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is the newest member of the Atlas family. The Atlas Cross Sport is essentially a two-row version of the Atlas that has a coupe-like rear roof to give it a sportier appearance. The Atlas Cross Sport's reduced weight makes it feel a little more fun to drive than the standard Atlas, but the two SUVs are otherwise very similar.
FAQ
Is the Volkswagen Atlas a good car?
What's new in the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas:
- Restyled front and rear bodywork
- Upgraded interior appointments
- Part of the first Atlas generation introduced for 2018
Is the Volkswagen Atlas reliable?
Is the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 Volkswagen Atlas?
The least-expensive 2021 Volkswagen Atlas is the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas S 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $31,545.
Other versions include:
- S 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $31,545
- S 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $33,445
- V6 SEL Premium 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $48,995
- SE w/Technology 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $38,795
- SE 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $36,795
- SEL Premium 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $47,195
- V6 SEL Premium R-Line 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $50,695
- V6 SE w/Technology 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $40,195
- SE 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $34,895
- SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $36,895
- V6 SEL 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $44,195
- V6 SE w/Technology R-Line 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $39,695
- V6 SE w/Technology R-Line 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $41,595
- V6 SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $38,295
- SEL 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $42,395
- V6 SEL R-Line 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $43,995
- V6 SEL R-Line 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $45,895
- V6 SEL 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $42,295
What are the different models of Volkswagen Atlas?
More about the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas
2021 Volkswagen Atlas Overview
The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas is offered in the following submodels: Atlas SUV. Available styles include S 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), S 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), V6 SEL Premium 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A), SE w/Technology 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), SE 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), SEL Premium 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), V6 SEL Premium R-Line 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A), V6 SE w/Technology 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A), SE 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), V6 SEL 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A), V6 SE w/Technology R-Line 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A), V6 SE w/Technology R-Line 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A), V6 SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A), SEL 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), V6 SEL R-Line 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A), V6 SEL R-Line 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A), and V6 SEL 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A).
What do people think of the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas and all its trim types. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2021 Atlas.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2021 Atlas featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2021 Volkswagen Atlas?
2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SEL Premium 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SEL Premium 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $50,585. The average price paid for a new 2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SEL Premium 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) is trending $3,325 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $3,325 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $47,260.
The average savings for the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SEL Premium 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) is 6.6% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 4 2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SEL Premium 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SEL 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SEL 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $46,580. The average price paid for a new 2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SEL 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) is trending $3,192 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $3,192 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $43,388.
The average savings for the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SEL 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) is 6.9% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 2 2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SEL 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $40,630. The average price paid for a new 2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) is trending $2,833 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $2,833 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $37,797.
The average savings for the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) is 7% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 2 2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2021 Volkswagen Atlas SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $39,080. The average price paid for a new 2021 Volkswagen Atlas SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) is trending $2,749 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $2,749 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $36,331.
The average savings for the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) is 7% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2021 Volkswagen Atlas SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Which 2021 Volkswagen Atlases are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2021 Volkswagen Atlas for sale near. There are currently 23 new 2021 Atlases listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $40,285 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $2,896 on a used or CPO 2021 Atlas available from a dealership near you.
Can't find a new 2021 Volkswagen Atlass you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Volkswagen Atlas for sale - 7 great deals out of 9 listings starting at $23,705.
Find a new Volkswagen for sale - 4 great deals out of 17 listings starting at $20,460.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2021 Volkswagen Atlas?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Volkswagen lease specials