2023 Volkswagen Atlas Review

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas is a seven-passenger three-row SUV and is the largest vehicle VW currently sells in the U.S. The Atlas has been one of the better midsize three-row SUVs since it debuted in 2018, and it offers impressive passenger comfort, even in the third row. We also give it high marks for its simple, easy-to-use interior layout and pleasant road manners.

Volkswagen gave the Atlas a styling refresh in 2021, as well as an updated infotainment system, so changes were kept to a minimum for 2023. In fact, we're pretty sure Volkswagen is deep into the development of the next-generation Atlas, so we're betting the current Atlas will likely ride out the rest of its lifespan without any major upgrades.

Overall, we like the Atlas, though neither the standard turbocharged four-cylinder nor the optional V6 engine offers much in the way of punch, especially when you load up the Atlas with passengers. Check out our test team's full Expert Rating below for more detail on the Atlas and how it compares to other three-row SUVs such as the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot and Kia Telluride.

What's it like to live with?

To get a more in-depth ownership experience, Edmunds evaluated a Volkswagen Atlas over the course of a year while logging over 20,000 miles. See all of the hits and misses, as documented by our staff in the Edmunds' VW Atlas long-term road test review. This test was based on a 2018 model, but the 2023 Atlas is of the same generation and most of our observations still apply.

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas is available in five trim levels: SE, SE with Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line Black and SEL Premium R-Line. The SE, SE with Technology and SEL trims come standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (235 horsepower, 258 lb-ft). A 3.6-liter V6 engine (276 hp, 266 lb-ft) engine is available on the SE with Technology and all the SEL permutations. Feature highlights include: