2018 Volkswagen Atlas Review
2018 Volkswagen Atlas Review





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Edmunds' Expert Review

byEd Hellwig
Executive Editor
Ed oversees the editors who produce vehicle evaluations for the site. He's been involved with testing vehicles in about every possible way since he started as a staff assistant at Edmunds in 2000.
Pros
- Spacious interior offers ample room for passenger in all three rows
- Great compromise between precise handling and everyday comfort
- Straightforward cabin design makes everything easy to use
Cons
- Not very quick to accelerate, even with the optional V6
- Fuel economy lags that of some competitors
What's new
- All-new model
- Replaces the Touareg as VW's three-row SUV
- Part of the first Atlas generation introduced for 2018
Designed and built in America to suit American tastes, the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas is the three-row crossover SUV Volkswagen has desperately needed for quite some time. The Touareg SUV that has been around for a while doesn't offer third-row seating, and it's not as competitive on price. The Atlas not only competes well with its rivals in terms of value, it has the kind of passenger space American families typically shop for in a family-hauling crossover.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SE w/Technology 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.25 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$206/mo
Atlas V6 SE w/Technology
vs
$245/mo
Avg. Large SUV
Like other Volkswagens, the Atlas features an interior design that's both simple and sophisticated. Base Atlas models have easy-to-read gauges, intuitive controls and above-average quality materials. The top-end SEL and SEL Premium offer plenty of technology features as well, but their inclusion never makes the cabin seem overly complicated.
Our only real concern at this point is performance on the open highway. Even with the optional V6, the Atlas doesn't feel particularly powerful. The standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder is going to feel even more taxed, especially under a full load of kids and cargo. To its credit, the Atlas has a very refined ride quality and a quiet cabin, so if the engine has enough guts for your tastes, you're not likely to find issue elsewhere.
Notably, we picked the 2018 Atlas as one of Edmunds' Best Midsize SUVs for 2018.
What's it like to live with?
Want to know even more about the Atlas? Edmunds added a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas SE 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.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
7.8 / 10Designed and built in America to suit American tastes, the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas is a spacious three-row family SUV with a comfortable ride, well-built cabin, and all the latest technology and safety features. Other than a lack of power, the Atlas is a top performer.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium (3.6L V6 | 8-speed automatic | AWD).
Scorecard
Overall | 7.8 / 10 |
Driving | 8.0 |
Comfort | 8.0 |
Interior | 8.0 |
Utility | 8.0 |
Technology | 8.0 |
Driving
8.0With the exception of a horsepower deficit, the Atlas is a pretty pleasant crossover to wheel around, especially considering its size. Effortless but direct steering, a quick-shifting transmission and confident brakes are the main components to credit for the pleasant driving experience.
Acceleration
7.0The optional V6 engine delivers decent acceleration off the line, but it feels just barely adequate when merging at speed — even with an empty cabin. Both the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander are a step or more quicker, with the Atlas needing a full 8 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph.
Braking
8.0Braking in the Atlas is confident, smooth and effortless. It's also one of its stronger performance qualities, needing only 115 feet to execute a panic stop from 60 mph. That's not only better than average, but it's also a surprise because the Atlas is heavier than most of its segment competition.
Steering
9.0The way the steering is tuned is a big reason the Atlas drives much smaller than it is. It feels light, quick and precise, but it also manages to avoid feeling disconnected like so many overboosted steering systems. This is a hard balance to achieve, but Volkswagen managed to get it very right.
Handling
7.5As much as the steering helps the Atlas feel nimble, it's no athlete. Sure, its ultimate road-holding 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.
Drivability
8.0The eight-speed automatic is a good match to the V6, delivering smooth and quick shifts in both casual and spirited situations. We thought we may have heard some odd noises at some point during the test, but it didn't affect performance and we couldn't replicate it a second time.
Off-road
7.5With an approach angle that's top of class, a departure angle that's squarely midpack, and VW 4motion all-wheel drive, the Atlas should hold its own against the rest of the class. Three-row unibody crossovers are meant for light off-road duty and inclement weather, not trailblazing exploration.
Comfort
8.0The Atlas is well-suited for long-distance trips. Ample climate system capacity and vents for all rows will keep passengers from fighting over the controls. Ride quality is good, too, even with the optional 20-inch wheels. But we found the front seats a little flat and lacking in adjustability.
Seat comfort
7.0The 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; the second row slides and has a slightly firmer middle seat. All armrests have excellent padding with the exception of the third row.
Ride comfort
8.0The ride comfort in the Atlas is pretty nice considering it's on large 20-inch wheels. The ride feels settled and not floaty, yet it manages to suppress most small and large bumps it rolls over. The standard 18-inch wheels might even ride a little better, but they don't look nearly as nice.
Noise & vibration
7.5Some big vehicle cabins can sound boomy when empty, but the Atlas isn't one of them. 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 VR6 engine thankfully makes a pleasant noise when you rev it out.
Climate control
9.0The front seats are heated and ventilated with heat for the second row. The climate dials provide easy access, but you can also control everything through the touchscreen, even adjusting, syncing or locking out the rear controls. Plenty of heating and cooling capacity and the third row has vents.
Interior
8.0Space, space, space! That's what the Atlas is all about. But it also gets high marks for its clever sliding second-row seat with good rear visibility to boot. The upgraded Digital Cockpit interface offers a ton of functionality to go with its good looks.
Ease of use
7.5The Atlas is pretty easy to figure out. It does take some time to become familiar with VW's Digital Cockpit, but once you're accustomed, functionality is wide-ranging. One downside to the touchscreen interface is having to look at what you're pressing, which takes attention away from driving.
Getting in/getting out
8.0Entry and exit are about as easy as they get for this class. The Atlas is low enough to not require a step rail, and and there's virtually no sill to step over. Third-row passengers have decent access to the back because of the clever sliding second-row seat, but you'll need to be somewhat limber.
Driving position
7.5You can sit low to maximize headroom or high for a more commanding view of the road, what most people want in an SUV. The steering column has a good range of tilt and reach adjustments too. The driver's seat lacks a little bit of fine-tuning adjustments, but that doesn't compromise driving position.
Roominess
9.5Space is one of the Atlas' biggest strengths. It has plenty of room in all directions upfront and enough second-row seat width for three adults across. Also the third row will accommodate adults 6 feet tall or shorter with surprisingly little compromise to comfort. This roomy cabin uses space well.
Visibility
8.0Visibility is good for a vehicle this big. The windows are large all around, and the rear headrests don't impede the rear view unless people are seated in the third row. Big side mirrors create small blind spots at the 45-degree front view, but the available 360-degree camera system helps.
Quality
7.5The cabin's build quality is a mixed bag. Up front, the Atlas feels like a near luxury car at this trim level, especially with the Digital Cockpit option. Everything behind the front seats is more durable hard plastic with the high likelihood of kids sitting in back. Overall, the Atlas feels solid.
Utility
8.0If it's utility you value most in your midsize crossover, then the Atlas could rise to the top of your list. Impressive cargo-carrying capacity and easy-folding seats are strong selling points. Small-item storage isn't as clever as others, but the sliding second-row bench more than makes up for it.
Small-item storage
7.5There's a pretty good amount of storage space for small items, but its cabin isn't quite as clever as the Honda Pilot's. There's no clear storage cubbies for items such as sunglasses or sectioned compartments within the center armrest bin. The rear cabin cubbies are also sparse and relatively basic.
Cargo space
10.0At 20.6 cubic feet of space behind the third row, and a maximum of 96.8 cubic feet with all rows folded, the Atlas dominates the midsize segment competition. The flexibility of the manual-folding flat seats is great, and our tester also has a hands-free tailgate feature.
Child safety seat accommodation
7.5There's plenty of space in the second row, but the anchors are tucked behind slits in the backseat cushion, which are a little difficult to access. Otherwise there shouldn't be any issues fitting a rear-facing car seat in the second row, which is designed to tilt and slide with a seat installed.
Towing
7.5With a max tow capacity of 5,000 pounds, this Atlas matches both the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander and will pull 1,500 pounds more than the Mazda CX-9. The 2-inch receiver is nicely integrated into the rear bumper.
Technology
8.0The Atlas shows strong on the tech front at the SEL Premium trim level. The Digital Cockpit interface looks of Audi quality and the advanced driver aids are some of the better tuned systems we've experienced in this class. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make smartphone integration a snap.
Audio & navigation
8.5The audio-navigation system is really slick. The optional Fender audio system delivers great sound and tons of bass from a trunk-mounted subwoofer. The infotainment proximity sensor cues additional menus when your hand gets close and the nav responds quickly to swipe and pinch-to-zoom gestures.
Smartphone integration
8.0The Wi-Fi hotspot works pretty well, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make smartphone connections easy. Bluetooth was also fairly quick and simple to pair.
Driver aids
8.5Driving aids work well and are easy to switch on and off. The adaptive cruise control in particular maintained a really small gap for such a big car, and the lane keeping assist is subtle but effective. The camera system provides crisp, clear HD images on the infotainment system, which is handy for parking.
Voice control
5.5The voice control system provides clear and convenient screen prompts, but it had a difficult time understanding our commands. Functions are limited to the usual navigation, audio and phone commands, but even simple tasks such as requesting a satellite radio station were a hassle for some reason.
Which Atlas does Edmunds recommend?
We like the Atlas SE w/technology as the best compromise considering price, performance and features. It comes standard with the base four-cylinder engine, but we would opt for the V6. Front-wheel drive is standard, but V6 models offer optional all-wheel drive as well. The SE w/technology package trim builds on the already well-equipped SE by adding key safety systems such as automatic emergency braking along with convenience features including a power-operated liftgate and remote start.
2018 Volkswagen Atlas models
The Atlas is offered in five trim levels — S, SE, SE w/technology, SEL and SEL Premium. The first four trim levels can be paired with either the base four-cylinder engine (235 horsepower, 258 pound-feet of torque) or the optional V6 engine (276 hp, 258 lb-ft). The SEL Premium comes with the V6 engine as standard. Front-wheel drive is standard, and V6 models can also be ordered with all-wheel drive (standard on the SEL Premium). For all Atlas versions, an eight-speed automatic transmission is standard.
Base Atlas S models have cloth seating, a bench seat in the second row, LED headlights and dual-zone manual climate control along with typical features such as power mirrors, a rearview camera and cruise control. There's also a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen interface that offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth connectivity. A limited run of Atlas S Launch Edition models will be offered with the V6 engine only and the addition of a panoramic sunroof, HomeLink programmable garage door opener and an upgraded 8-inch touchscreen with satellite radio.
Upgrading to the SE adds simulated leather upholstery, push-button start, automatic headlights, a power driver seat, heated front seats, rear sunshades, a blind-spot monitoring system, a larger 8-inch touchscreen interface and the option of captain's chairs in the second row. The SE w/technology builds on the SE's equipment list with the addition of remote engine start, automatic three-zone climate control, a power rear liftgate, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist and automatic emergency braking.
Moving up to the SEL adds a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable front passenger seats, park distance control and two available options: black 20-inch wheels and the R-Line appearance package. The top-of-the-line SEL Premium adds several exclusive features. The most notable among them is the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, a display that replaces the standard gauge cluster with a video screen that can be reconfigured to show a wide variety of information beyond basic speed, fuel and temperature readings. All SEL Premium models also get LED taillights, full leather seating, an upgraded touchscreen display with navigation, and a parking assist system. The same 20-inch black wheels offered on the SEL are also optional on the SEL Premium, but the R-Line package is not.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2018 Volkswagen Atlas.
5 star(38%)
4 star(17%)
3 star(10%)
2 star(19%)
1 star(16%)
164 reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4 out of 5 stars
40,000 miles and loving it!
Andrea, 06/19/2017
2018 Volkswagen Atlas V6 Launch Edition 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
First, I love this car, it's comfort, style and maneuverability. It fits my kids and I perfectly and we have really enjoyed it. There were a couple of repairs and updates that we had to have on the Atlas shortly after purchasing but that is to be expected with a newly launched car. I’m happy with our purchase and hope to keep the car for many more years. Drives so well!
1 out of 5 stars
The new car that drives like an old car.....
Doug, 01/12/2018
2018 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SE 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
I purchase the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas SE back on August 19, 2017. After having it 3 days, I had to bring it in to service for severe shaking at speeds over 40mph and a whining noise when accelerating from stop. The performed wheel balance and gave it back without testing. Problems still existed. Took it back and this time I was told I had 2 bad tires. They replaced the 2 tires and told me … that would fix the whining noise and shaking. Problems still existed. Started noticing a rattle from the driver front end when driving over rough terrain at a slow speed. Took it in again and was told there were loose bolts under the dash and they couldn't recreate the whining noise (I've submitted several recordings but they ignore). Problems still exist. Get VW Corporate involved.....they have QTM come out only to tell me the vehicle is operating according to specs. Received it back with same problems. I decided to try a different dealership in hopes to get this resolved. After over of month of waiting, I get and appointment. I did a test drive and was able to show the service guy all problems. QTM came back and said there were loose bolts on the sway bar link; so I guess they changed or tightened them. I was told again that they were not able to recreate the whining noise. My guess is that they don't have a clue what that issue is. Anyways after 12 days in the shop, my vehicle still has the same problems. Tried to initiate a buy back with VW and was denied. They recommend me bring it back in to service. I wasted enough time with this vehicle and is beyond exhausted. I also get the metal to metal rattle form the engine when powering off, A/C sometimes doesn't work, radio glitches and the plastic on the outside is loose in several places. I will most likely hire an attorney to file a lemon law claim. I wanted to be sure that I can at least spare someone of the headaches this vehicle and VW has caused for my family and I. Yes it comes with 6 year 72,000 mile warranty, but the service departments are not prepared to address issues with this vehicle. This makes the warranty useless.
Update: VW bought back my Atlas and I’ve since purchased a Honda Pilot which is serving my family well
2 out of 5 stars
Hard not to be disappointed
SonomaHog, 09/18/2017
2018 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
With our minivan on its last legs, we were in the market for a new vehicle that could seat 7 (3 young boys and frequently shuttling their friends) and it looked like the Atlas fit the bill as we loved the styling and had a previous good experience with VW. We purchased an Atlas SE (w/tech) after seriously considering a Honda Pilot on August 10. After 3 weeks is when the problems start. … On 9/4/17, my wife heads out to shuttle the kids to school when the EPC check engine light comes on and the car refuses to turn over and start (resulting in the obvious inconvenience and tardiness to class). After contacting VW roadside assistance, who apparently does no additional coordination other than calling the tow company (the local dealership in Fairfield CA had no idea we were coming in, resulting in additional delays), we were provided a loaner Jetta requiring us to change carpooling plans for the week. I fully recognize issues can arise, and it’s how they are dealt with that are important, and why we are disappointed. After 6 days in the dealership (and 115 miles “test driving” added to the car without any explanation), our 5 week old Atlas (now with 1890 miles) was returned with assurance that the issue was resolved (we were told there was a problem with the fuel system). My wife subsequently goes out to clean the car and finds minor/superficial damage to the plastic floor panels in the back as a result of the repairs that were obvious and were not reported which results in us having to call again to explain and coordinate replacement. 7 days later (9/15), we again load up the kids for a long day of soccer, and like groundhog day, the EPC check engine light comes on and the vehicle fails to turn over. After again coordinating a tow, and pushing back on another Jetta to ensure we have enough room for the weeks carpooling, we are back to wondering when and what the issue is. We really want to love the Atlas, but so far it’s hard not to be disappointed and second guess our decision not to go with Honda. Will keep you posted on how this is resolved.
1 out of 5 stars
Everything was great until it wasn't
Kara Holm, 06/29/2018
2018 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
First of all, I loved my BRAND NEW Atlas when I bought it. Every time I walked up to it for the first two weeks, I thought "man, that Tourmaline blue R-Line SE w/ Tech Atlas is sexy as hell!" It looked so much better than the vehicles around it.
Then I went to fill the tank up. The fuel door fell off. Okay, no big deal. I put it back on and kept going... only to find that EVERY TIME I … FILLED UP, THE FUEL DOOR FELL OFF!! Tip. Of. The. Iceberg.
Next, my vehicle starts taking longer to start up. I thought it may be the change of weather. My remote start isn't working either but I just figured I was doing something wrong when pressing the buttons. No big deal, right? WRONG. The next day, MY CAR WON'T START! It tries turning over, but won't fire! What in the world? I try 7 times before finally! It starts! I go drop the kids off at daycare and then head straight to the dealership.
Mind you, I sell cars for a living, so any time spent out of work is money out of my pocket!
I drop my vehicle off and am given a ride to my dealership. I get a call saying it's a fuel pump and they need to give me a loaner. I get picked up and go back to the VW dealership... more time away from my work! I am told the fuel pump is on an "intergalactic backorder" and that it will take over a month to possibly get the part in. One person has already been waiting 3 weeks for one. WHAT??? So they give me a Passat - a $400 a month car!!
I immediately call VW of America and express my concerns. I get in contact with Jeff Newell, the new car manager at Village VW in Chattanooga and he works his magic and gets me a part from another dealership overnighted and I get my vehicle back within two days. This was the dealership working for me, NOT VW OF AMERICA.
I go back to happily driving my car..... for two weeks until ANOTHER problem! My car starts acting funny again and my freaking fuel door is STILL falling off every time I get gas!! WTC?? I take it to the dealership again. It's a purge valve! So they replace that. I make my first payment and call VW of America about this service visit. I tell them something needs to be done about this. Their response? Oh, we have fixed it according to warranty. That's all we can do at this time. If it happens again, let us know. What? Okay. Fine. Only two issues, whatever, they have to work the kinks out I guess. I go on my merry way, driving my beautiful car that yes, I did still love.
I wake up about two weeks later ON MY DAY OFF, get the kids ready, put them in the car and start it. I hear this loud, ungodly noise from inside my car. I open the door and it's even louder! I took videos of it, sent it to some guys in service and they said "That's not good. Drive it to the dealership NOW"
GREAT. So instead of enjoying the day with my kids, I drop them off at daycare and go to the dealership. I spend over half the day there for them to tell my it's the cooling fans and motor... What. Oh, and they don't have a loaner but I can still drive my car... They tell me "Hey, it's going to take over a week for this part to come in. Drive your car and if it starts to over heat, pull over and call roadside assistance to tow it here."
I LIVE IN THE SOUTH. WHERE IT IS 90+ EVERY DAY IN THE SUMMER!! So let me get this straight, you want me to drive around with my two babies in the car and if it over heats, pull over and call roadside?? And sit in my over heated car in almost 100 degree heat? WITH MY BABIES? You're crazy! Finally, after getting with the person who sold me the car, I get a loaner. I call VW of America and ask again for my vehicle get bought back or replaced or something! Because I no longer feel safe in this vehicle!
Kim L leaves me a voicemail to call her back. I call her back within 15 minutes. Conveniently, she is already out of the office. Of course. I call her EVERY DAY FOR A WEEK. I leave voicemail after voicemail to PLEASE give me a call back!
While waiting for a call back, my start stop error keeps coming on but no check engine light so the service tech tells me it should be fine. So still waiting for VW of America to call but my husband and I load up the kids and one of their big power wheel trucks into the Atlas for a day at the park on my day off, which is precious time because we both work 50-60 hours a week. I start the Atlas and guess what... check engine light.
I bring it straight to the dealership again and they put us in a 2017 Tiguan... We try to fit the power wheel in the Tiguan and we can't. Park day cancelled. In the meantime, I decide to try calling Kim L at VW of America again. I get a voicemail that says she is now out of the office until July 2nd.... So she couldn't return my phone calls all week and now she is out of town for a long weekend? Lolol okay. There is only ONE person in the entire region that can help me, when I am located in the same city as the plant so hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of vehicles have been sold in this region alone. RIDICULOUS
2018 Volkswagen Atlas video
SPEAKER 1: The Acura NSX is a high tech super car that uses hybrid technology to create an exhilarating driving experience. But have you ever wondered what it would be like if it had four doors and the drivetrain was backwards? Well, wonder no more, because this is the 2018 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid. Up front, the RLX receives a new hood. It receives a new front end and new grill that inherits Acura's new styling language, the thing that you're seeing on the MDX and NSX. It retains the Jewel Eye headlights, but it gets new head light pods that include some LED turn signals and LED daytime running lights. You also get this new chin spoiler that ties into the side skirt. You have new 19-inch wheels. Got a hybrid badge, in case you forget you bought a hybrid. And around back you have all-LED tail lights that are a new design with a new rear end look. Now, mechanically this car is related to the NSX, because it takes the electric motors that drive the NSX's front wheels and sticks them in the back to help guide the car through turns. It takes the V6 that the NSX had in its middle, replaces it with seats, and sticks the V6 under the hood where it's assisted by another electric motor and drives the front wheel. The whole thing makes 377 horsepower and returns 28 miles per gallon, which isn't bad. If you are a Japanese car nerd or an '80s and '90s luxury car nerd, you remember the Acura Legend. In the mid '80s, when Acura was still a very new car company, Honda brought the Legend Sedan over. And it was an important car for them, because it both helped define what Acura could be in terms of a luxury car company. It was also the first V6 in a production Honda car. The Legend eventually became the Acura RL, and the Acura RL eventually became this, the Acura RLX, which is actually going to be the Legend in Japan. Over the life of the RL and the RLX, the criticisms levied against this car have remained pretty consistent. It doesn't have a V8. It's not a rear-wheel drive. It's not quite as luxurious feeling or as sporty or as exciting to look at as some of its German competitors. With this refresh, Acura is hoping to address some of those concerns and make this a car that stands up a little better against its European competition. For 2018, Acura updated the interior, making some tweaks to the design and improving some of the material quality. So all the touch points feel pretty premium. It's a quiet interior. These new seats are comfortable. In the Sport Hybrid they're heated and cooled. You get a full suite of driver aids and active safety features. There's a lot of content in this car. The overall design doesn't have quite the same wow factor as the more recently redesigned E-Class or 5 Series. This infotainment system really lags behind the competition. The two-screen setup makes sense in some situations. It's nice to be able to look at your GPS directions and be able to change radio stations or adjust the music or whatever else. But the interface isn't very user friendly. The voice controls don't work super well. And it's just not as fully featured as the offerings from some competitors. So the Acura RLX Sport Hybrid works a little differently from other luxury hybrid cars. You get a V6 engine up front that's coupled with a seven-speed automatic transmission that has an electric motor attached to it to help boost the power from the V6. Where the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive comes in is this car takes the electric motors that in the NSX drive the front wheels, and moves them to the back. So each of the rear wheels in this car has an electric motor that can provide power to it. And that means that when you're going through turns, it really helps push the car around. And for as big and heavy a car as this is, that means that it corners really competently. And I mean it just goes on these twisty roads. So in the Acura RLX Sport Hybrid, in normal mode, at low speed, it will actually crawl along just using the electric motors. And in this car, when the gas engine kicks in during normal driving, it's actually pretty smooth. It's pretty unobtrusive. The one place where it's noticeable is if you're at a stop and the car decides that it needs to kick the engine on to charge the batteries. And that's when you sort of feel the engine start up and you hear it running so that the batteries can get juice. The RLX suspension is actually really nice. It absorbs small imperfections in the road really well, and it provides a pretty comfortable ride that I like a lot. It does-- On some road features you get bounce out of it, and that makes it feel a little unsettled. But that doesn't actually affect the performance that much. As much as some of the competitors have more controlled body roll and a ride that feels a little more buttoned down and connected, the RLX, thanks to this Sport Hybrid system, is surprisingly capable. It's really its own sort of fun. I think it's a different fun from the German sedans. It's that feeling of a big comfy sedan that just somehow magically will push itself around a corner faster than you would expect. The RLX's back seat is pretty spacious. There's a lot of leg room here, and I'd say headroom is average for the class. It's what I'd expect. The seat itself is comfortable, and it's heated as well. You get this power rear sunshade and this tricky side-- Yeah, look at that. That's almost as fun as driving the car. Not. The other thing they did for 2018 was they reduced the size of the battery, which means that the trunk has gotten slightly larger. It's still not as practical as a non-hybrid car. The rear seats don't fall down and there's no pass through, so you're definitely giving up a little bit of practicality here. Unlike some of my coworkers, I'm not terribly concerned with the outward appearance of a car. I figure once you're inside driving, you don't have to look at it. So I'll leave that up to you. On the inside, it's comfortable. It's quiet. It's quick. And it's surprisingly capable. It doesn't have quite the wow factor in here that you get from the newest generation of something like an E-Class or 5 Series. And this infotainment system is definitely just behind what's available in the class. The other thing they've done that's smart is they've reduced the cost of the Sport Hybrid trim by $4,000 for 2018. This car comes basically fully equipped, and it undercuts the cost of its competitors pretty significantly. I think that's a smart move for them, and It will make this car a little more competitive on the market. I like this car. It's a kind of fun that I appreciate, and I like the comfort that you get here. The drivetrain is an impressive piece of technology, and it works really well in the real world. But there's no denying that the impression from the inside is that this car is just a little behind the curve when you look at the competitive class. We're looking forward to getting this car back to the office so we can do a full test on it and tell you all about it. For more information, check out edmunds.com to find our full rating and review of the 2018 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid.
2018 Volkswagen Atlas Review
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.
Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $30,750
- MPG & Fuel
- 22 City / 26 Hwy / 24 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.6 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 7 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: front wheel drive
- Transmission: 8-speed shiftable automatic
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 235 hp @ 4,500 rpm
- Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 6 yr./ 72,000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 198.3 in. / Height: 70.0 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 78.3 in.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 20.6 cu.ft.
Safety
Our experts like the Atlas models:
- Blind-Spot Warning System
- Alerts you with visual and audible warnings if other vehicles are in your blind spot.
- Post-Collision Braking System
- Applies the brakes once the airbags go off to reduce the possibility of further damage during an accident.
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Sounds an alert when you drift from your lane due to inattention and can automatically steer to help out.
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall5 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover15.9%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Side Impact TestGood
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
- IIHS Small Overlap Front TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front TestGood
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More about the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas
Used 2018 Volkswagen Atlas Overview
The Used 2018 Volkswagen Atlas is offered in the following submodels: Atlas SUV. Available styles include V6 SE w/Technology 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A), V6 SEL 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A), V6 SEL Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A), V6 SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A), V6 SEL 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A), V6 SE 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A), V6 SE 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A), S 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), SE 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), V6 S 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A), V6 S 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A), SEL 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), V6 Launch Edition 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A), and V6 Launch Edition 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A). Pre-owned Volkswagen Atlas models are available with a 3.6 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 276 hp, depending on engine type. The Used 2018 Volkswagen Atlas comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.
What's a good price on a Used 2018 Volkswagen Atlas?
Price comparisons for Used 2018 Volkswagen Atlas trim styles:
- The Used 2018 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SEL is priced between $24,698 and$32,998 with odometer readings between 29880 and74357 miles.
- The Used 2018 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SE is priced between $20,899 and$29,998 with odometer readings between 24550 and100075 miles.
- The Used 2018 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SE w/Technology is priced between $24,990 and$30,990 with odometer readings between 31974 and76127 miles.
- The Used 2018 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SEL Premium is priced between $27,998 and$36,998 with odometer readings between 25195 and82376 miles.
- The Used 2018 Volkswagen Atlas V6 S is priced between $21,499 and$27,990 with odometer readings between 29896 and84143 miles.
- The Used 2018 Volkswagen Atlas S is priced between $25,998 and$27,990 with odometer readings between 14840 and58949 miles.
- The Used 2018 Volkswagen Atlas V6 Launch Edition is priced between $23,998 and$26,590 with odometer readings between 51633 and84973 miles.
- The Used 2018 Volkswagen Atlas SE is priced between $27,990 and$30,990 with odometer readings between 25283 and43789 miles.
- The Used 2018 Volkswagen Atlas SE w/Technology is priced between $19,991 and$27,590 with odometer readings between 40822 and106727 miles.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which used 2018 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) 2018 Volkswagen Atlas for sale near. There are currently 60 used and CPO 2018 Atlases listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $19,991 and mileage as low as 14840 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned 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 Used 2018 Volkswagen Atlas.
Can't find a used 2018 Volkswagen Atlass you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
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Find a used certified pre-owned Volkswagen Atlas for sale.
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Should I lease or buy a 2018 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
Check out Volkswagen Atlas lease specials
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