Volkswagen is joining the three-row family SUV segment, dominated by the likes of the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, with its all-new Atlas. This seven-passenger coach will go on sale in spring 2017.
Slated to be assembled at the automaker's Chattanooga, Tennessee, facility next to the Passat, the Atlas is touted as the largest vehicle the company has manufactured in the U.S.
And when the company says large, it is sincere. The 2018 Volkswagen Atlas is among the largest in the segment at 198 inches long, which is about 5 inches longer than a Honda Pilot. It's also about an inch wider.
Based on initial impressions at the LA Auto Show, the Atlas's interior is very spacious. It has comfortable seats and good fit and finish.
Unlike many three-row SUVs, access to the back row is relatively easy. Second-row seats that slide and recline forward with a low effort action on both sides of the vehicle. The third row offers a legitimate space and posture even for adults.
(Story updated with video from the 2017 Detroit auto show.)
The Atlas will have two powertrains available, both mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and available in all-wheel or front-wheel drive. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is expected to have 238 horsepower, while the 3.6-liter V6 will produce 280 horsepower. All-wheel-drive is only available with the V6.
Adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitor with rear traffic alert, and lane-departure warning are all listed as part of the Atlas options. Additionally, an automatic post-collision braking system will be available to mitigate additional collisions after the initial impact of a crash.
Infotainment will be available with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Official pricing for the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas is expected to be released later this fall. It is expected to start below $40,000 and span to almost $50,000.
