The 2022 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.
Part of the first Atlas generation introduced for 2018
What is the Atlas?
The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas is a large three-row SUV. Since its debut in 2018, the Atlas has been Volkswagen's largest SUV, slotting above the smaller Tiguan and new Volkswagen Taos SUVs. While we liked the Atlas when it debuted, a handful of updates on the 2021 model made it much more competitive. The updated exterior styling and upgraded interior kept it feeling fresh. Since the Atlas was updated just last year, we don't expect any significant changes for 2022.
The Atlas competes against other midsize three-row SUVs. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade remain our favorites, but it's also worth checking out rivals including the Honda Pilot, Mazda CX-9 and the recently redesigned Toyota Highlander. If you like the Atlas but don't need three rows of seating, the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport combines most of the regular Atlas' strengths in a somewhat more stylish package.
Edmunds says
The Volkswagen Atlas may not be our favorite three-row SUV, but a series of updates to styling, tech and the interior have kept it feeling fresh and well worth a look.
2022 Volkswagen Atlas SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
Largest interior short of a Tahoe. The Kia and Hyundai counterparts interior aren’t as spacious or as easy to access. Infotainment system with the wireless CarPlay is flawless. V6 is plenty if you’re not planning on street racing. Wish it got better gas mileage in current gas prices (~20).
Real review not professional one.
5 out of 5 stars
Bill, 04/18/2022
2022 Volkswagen Atlas SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
Before buying my Atlas, I read every review and watched every YouTube video I could find almost to the point of obsession. I had a Ford expedition max previously with far too many problems with the EcoBoost engine. The common theme for the Atlas was that the engine was too sluggish. In my opinion, the engine is perfectly adequate (have V6) and will perform everything you need it too. The … big test came when I needed to pass two semi-trucks at once. The car had no problem getting up to speed and at 104mph felt really solid, but yes it is slow compared to a Dodge Durango Hellcat. The Atlas is at home on the long road trips and after 7 hours of straight driving I had no aches or pains. The steering is precise and the ride is very smooth. I am on the bigger side and have plenty of room all the way around. I never feel cramped. In my opinion the vehicle looks far more expense than the price and I love how the interior is uncluttered and streamlined. I am not a big fan of the 12 inch tablet sticking out over the dashboard. The fit and finish have met all expectations, and I have yet to experience any creaks or other interior noises. Our neighbor who bought a 2021 Hyundai Palisade said the Atlas handles better and feels more confident in corners with less body roll. With my wife and three daughters in the Atlas we have plenty of room and my 12 year old prefers the third row to herself. The charging ports in the third row are a must. I found all the technology fairly easy to figure out and love the wireless Apple CarPlay. Knock on wood, I have had no problems yet with over 2000 miles. The two things I think need improvement are sometimes at lower speeds the transmission shift patterns are a little goofy, almost like the trans is confused for a second. Not the end of the world, but happens once is awhile. The other bothersome thing is the fake dual exhaust tips. To me it is just strange, either have dual exhaust or eliminate the fake chrome tips. Overall, I really like this vehicle and recommend adding it to your list of considerations. I know Kia and Hyundai get all the raving reviews, but for me it is the VW.
2022 VW Atlas ce W/Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Tom Tom, 01/18/2022
2022 Volkswagen Atlas SE w/Technology 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
8 hour drive to the beach and back. Atlas did not disappoint! All the latest technology. Love it!?!
Lots of Space and No Wind Noise
5 out of 5 stars
Dan, 03/02/2021
2021 Volkswagen Atlas SE w/Technology 4dr SUV AWD w/Prod. End 08/20 (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.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas, so we've included reviews for other years of the Atlas since its last redesign.
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