2021 Volkswagen Atlas
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2021 Volkswagen Atlas Review
- 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
- Restyled front and rear bodywork
- Upgraded interior appointments
- Part of the first Atlas generation introduced for 2018
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 | |
The Atlas is a roomy and comfortable three-row SUV. An easy-to-use infotainment system and helpful driver aids are also part of the appeal. Subpar acceleration from both of the Atlas' available engines is a drawback, but overall this is a compelling choice for a family-friendly SUV. | |
How does the Atlas drive? | |
Neither Atlas engine is all that great. The optional V6 engine delivers decent acceleration off the line but runs out of oomph when the Atlas is merging at speed, even with an empty cabin. Our V6-equipped Atlas test vehicle needed 8.5 seconds to cover 0-60 mph, which is slower than many rival three-row SUVs. We also tested the base four-cylinder — surprisingly, that Atlas was quicker, with 0-60 mph coming up in 8.1 seconds. Otherwise, the Atlas is pleasant to wheel around considering its size. It's composed and stable when going around turns, and the smooth brakes and transmission shifting make this an easy SUV to drive everyday. | |
How comfortable is the Atlas? | |
The Atlas' front seats lack some adjustability, and the bottom cushions feel a little flat and long, which might be uncomfortable for short drivers. Both back rows recline, and the second row slides and has a slightly firmer middle seat. The Atlas has a settled ride quality. The suspension absorbs most bumps and road undulations without getting overly floaty. There's some road noise, and the large mirrors generate noticeable wind noise at highway speeds, but it's nothing the audio system can't conceal. The Atlas' climate system is strong and has plenty of heating and cooling capacity. | |
How’s the interior? | |
There's plenty of room in all directions up front, and the second row is wide enough for three adults across. Also the third row fits adults 6 feet or shorter with surprisingly little effect on comfort. The Atlas also gets high marks for its clever sliding second-row seat, with good rear visibility to boot. It does take some time to become familiar with the Atlas' available digital gauge cluster, 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? | |
The Atlas boasts a strong assortment of technology features. The infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone capability. The base stereo has pretty good quality, and the optional 12-speaker system on top models boasts impressive sound quality. Voice control is improved over previous versions of the Atlas but remains restricted to pretty basic commands. A number of driver aids also come standard, and adaptive cruise control handles transitions and maintains gaps well for such a large vehicle. We also like the subtle lane keeping assist. The rearview camera is crisp and provides several viewing options. | |
How’s the storage? | |
The Atlas dominates the midsize SUV competition with 20.6 cubic feet of space behind the third row and a maximum capacity of 96.8 cubic feet. The flexibility of the manual-folding flat seats is great, and our test SUV also had a hands-free tailgate. The Atlas offers a good amount of storage space for small items, but there are no obvious 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 the Atlas? | |
The four-cylinder engine is less thirsty than the optional V6. The EPA estimate is 22 mpg combined (20 city/24 highway) with all-wheel drive. On our 115-mile evaluation route, our AWD-equipped test Atlas averaged 23.5 mpg, indicating the rating is accurate. But that still trails some three-row V6-equipped rivals such as the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. | |
Is the Atlas a good value? | |
The Atlas comes in a little pricier than most of its competition at its top trim levels. It balances that by offering plenty of safety and technology features that are effective and easy to use. What doesn't feel worth the price is the lack of horsepower, plus an abundance of hard plastic in the second and third rows. That could be OK, though, if there's a high likelihood of kids sitting in back. Volkswagen once offered great warranty coverage but has fallen behind recently. Kia and Hyundai offer the best basic warranties by far, and many other crossovers beat the Atlas in powertrain coverage. | |
Wildcard | |
The Atlas isn't as fun to drive as a Mazda CX-9 or Honda Pilot, but buyers who don't need sporty abilities will find the Atlas pleasant enough. Our editors have mixed opinions about the Atlas' styling. Some think it looks handsome, especially with the available R-Line enhancements, while others say it doesn't do enough to resemble other models in the VW lineup. | |
Which Atlas does Edmunds recommend?
We think the SE with Technology trim gives you the best of the Atlas' features while keeping the price reasonable. You can also select the panoramic sunroof and second-row captain's chairs if you desire, or check the box for the R-Line package, which gives the Atlas a sporty appearance. Acceleration from the four-cylinder and V6 engines is similar, so there's little reason to upgrade to the V6.
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.
Save as much as $5,455 with Edmunds
2021 Volkswagen Atlas pricing
in Ashburn, VAS
2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A
Edmunds Suggested Price$29,308
2 for sale in 20147
SE
2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A
Edmunds Suggested Price$32,864
4 for sale in 20147
SE w/Technology
3.6L 6cyl 8A
Edmunds Suggested Price$39,091
33 for sale in 20147
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas.
Trending topics in reviews
- spaciousness
- interior
- value
- appearance
- seats
- driving experience
- technology
- road noise
- fuel efficiency
- maintenance & parts
- dashboard
- comfort
- infotainment system
- towing
- doors
- handling & steering
- ride quality
- reliability & manufacturing quality
- acceleration
- wheels & tires
- sound system
- engine
- lights
- transmission
Most helpful consumer reviews
5/5 stars, Lots of Space and No Wind Noise
Dan,
SE w/Technology 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
I've owned dozens of cars and SUVs. The VW Atlas is a great choice for families who have taller children but don't want a domestic brand SUV or full size gas guzzler. Is the Atlas the best mid-size SUV? No, not really. The Palisade and the Telluride are better. However, the Atlas has more room in the third row and the trunk once all the seats are up and being used. If you like VW's simplistic cabins this is the one for you. I like the fact that the climate controls and the gear shift are the same as all the other cars of past. It still looks great. Let's talk dollar for dollar options. I bought a 2.0 SE with Tech, 4Motion, and sunroof. With all the discounts you get a vehicle that is cheaper with more options than all the other brands. Hyundai and Kia are still selling for more than sticker. Also, the Hyundai and Kia lower models don't have nice big wheels or a power trunk... this is worth money right there. The Atlas drives very will if not a bit harsh over rough pavement... this is true. I drove a Palisade for a week and it was much smoother. HOWEVER... like all Hyundais I've owned in the past, the Palisade becomes very boring to drive. Not sure why, but all VWs are much more entertaining to drive. So, for a car that you can get for around $37k this Atlas has nice features such as a huge moonroof, latest safety tech plus radar cruise, power trunk, Android and Apple car play, perforated fake leather seats, and automatic wipers (that's a nice touch). On paper the Hyundai and Kia might be cheaper, but in reality as of right now that 's not the case. Like I said, we have 4 kids who are all older and taller. We have a minivan for long trips, but they all fit fine in the Atlas which you can't say about most of the other Brands. Trunk space is also good for and SUV. You can cram 5 board cases in the trunk plus a small duffel bag. However, it's still not enough for a road trip of any length. It's fine though if you have less than 6 people. Gas mileage and engine performance are good... not great. I bought the 4 cyl since it had more torque in everyday driving and I don't have to tow anything....oh yes it's cheaper too. So, both engines are about the same quickness. The V6 does sound better at low RPM. The 4 cyl shifts less even on the HWY. Gas mileage is about 18 in town and 22 on the HWY. That's about as good as it gets. The V6 didn't do any better when I had it as a rental car. I started putting premium gas in my Atlas and I swear I can feel a power and response difference. But most people might not. The steering is very light...almost too light, but it's not a deal breaker. Oh yes... this car generates NO wind noise. It's almost limo like when on the open road. Doesn't matter how hard the wind blows, there is almost no noise. Overall this is a great family car. I've only had it 3 months but so far no issues of any kind. Bluetooth works fine and all the other gadgets work well. So far so good.
5/5 stars, One Week of Ownership Atlas SEL
rtw21288,
V6 SEL 4MOTION 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
Just purchased an Atlas SEL. So far a very smooth ride. We are coming from a 2012 Honda CRV, and the room and storage space is night and day. Captains chairs are a must I feel if using the third row often. Wider and more seating room than Highlander. Quieter and more refined than the Explorer. Many prefer the Palisade and Telluride, but we honestly got better rebates and incentives going with Atlas. We just took a 600 mile road trip and averaged a little bit over 22 mpg. Time will tell on durability and reliability, but so far so good.
3/5 stars, Nice but too bulky -and dealers are terrible
Cumming Buyers,
SEL 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
Love VW products, but this car is simply too bulky in the front. But worse, the dealers are terrible and caused us to cancel our purchase. We decided on a dark green with brown interior with certain options, which required options. None of the dealers wanted to order a car. Their 200% focus was to flip us to take a car from inventory. Then, the advertised VW special financing never applied to what we wanted. We were planning to pay cash and have excellent credit, do we know that wasn’t the reason - and we never got that far. It was the worse experience we ever had buying a car. VW needs to upgrade their dealers or they will never achieve higher sales.
5/5 stars, Would Buy Again! 2021 SEL PREMIUM 4 MOTION
shineykate,
SEL Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
The VW Atlas has both the roominess I need and the luxury of German engineering with style. SO MUCH STYLE! (*I've owned a Jeep Commander and a BMW X3 - neither even compare to the Atlas.) I love looking at the Atlas as much as I love driving it and I've never felt like that about any vehicle I've ever owned. I read 10M reviews before deciding to test drive and ultimately purchase a brand new Atlas in December of 2020. I had read about horsepower being an issue, but I have always felt like it was zippy for as large as it is. It's obviously not a sportscar and while it doesn't ignite like one, it's incredibly smooth on the road and quiet. I can't say enough good things - I plan on driving it forever!
2021 Volkswagen Atlas video
2018 Volkswagen Atlas Review
NOTE: This video is about the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas, but since the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
Our experts review the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas. Edmunds Road Test Manager Jonathan Elfalan takes a thorough look at the all-new 2018 Volkswagen Atlas, the company's largest three-row SUV to date. He covers everything from the Atlas' expansive cabin quarters (all three rows of it) to its available luxury-level technology features to its handling and drivability.
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.
Volkswagen Atlas vs. the competition
2021 Volkswagen Atlas
2020 Honda Pilot
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.
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FAQ
Is the Volkswagen Atlas a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2021 Atlas both on the road and at the track, giving it a 8.0 out of 10. You probably care about Volkswagen Atlas fuel economy, so it's important to know that the Atlas gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg to 22 mpg, depending on the configuration. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Atlas has 20.6 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Volkswagen Atlas. Learn more
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?
To determine whether the Volkswagen Atlas is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Atlas. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Atlas's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2021 Atlas and gave it a 8.0 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 Atlas is a good car for you. Learn more
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:
- SEL Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $48,995
- SEL 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $44,195
- SE w/Technology 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $40,195
- SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $38,295
- SE w/Technology R-Line 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $41,595
- SE 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $34,895
- SEL 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $42,295
- SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $36,795
- SE w/Technology R-Line 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $39,695
- S 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $31,545
- SEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $42,395
- S 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $33,445
- SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $36,895
- SE w/Technology 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $38,795
- SEL Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $47,195
- SEL Premium R-Line 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $50,695
- SEL R-Line 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $45,895
- SEL R-Line 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $43,995
What are the different models of Volkswagen Atlas?
If you're interested in the Volkswagen Atlas, the next question is, which Atlas model is right for you? Atlas variants include SEL Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A), SEL 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A), SE w/Technology 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A), and SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A). For a full list of Atlas models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more