2026 Volkswagen Atlas Model Review with Prices, Photos, & Specs
Atlas
Key Features
- Starting at $39,310 MSRP*
- Standard 2.0-liter TSI Turbo 4-Cylinder Engine with 269 horsepower / 276 lb-ft of torque and available 4MOTION® with Active Control
- 60/40 split folding 2nd row, 3rd-row easy entry, and 50/50-split folding 3rd row
- Volkswagen Car-Net® App-Connect with Bluetooth® audio streaming
- Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist)
- Available Trailer hitch with 5,000-pound towing capacity
- Optional Discover Media touchscreen navigation system with 12-inch color display
- Available Hands-free Easy Open liftgate
About the Volkswagen Atlas
As the largest Volkswagen vehicle ever assembled in the United States, the Atlas redefines the meaning of a 7-passenger SUV. With up to 96.6 cubic feet of cargo space, the Atlas is among the best in its class. Families looking for a safe and reliable SUV will be pleased with the number of available safety features the Atlas has to offer. In fact, the Atlas competes and outperforms most full-size SUVs and minivans. From Pedestrian Monitoring and Front Assist to Blind Spot Monitor, available driver assistance systems will be on your side no matter where life takes you. The Atlas is also filled with technology features that will help you get to where you're going. For an active family that needs plenty of space, modern technology, and reliable safety -- the Volkswagen Atlas offers the perfect solution.
What the Critics Say
Volkswagen designed the Atlas with interior room as the primary focus. It boasts a ton of space for cargo and passengers, and the third row can easily fit average-sized adults. Drivers will benefit from a now-standard 8.0-inch digital gauge cluster. The central infotainment screen is easy to use, too.” -- MotorTrend
As a vehicle designed for the American market, the Volkswagen Atlas is a roomy family hauler with a high seating position that gives the driver a great view of the traffic ahead. The ride quality is comfortable and not the least bit floaty, and the interior controls are where you’d expect them to be. The quality of materials is good, and a European sensibility is apparent in the look of the dash." -- Kelley Blue Book
What's New for 2026
Back almost essentially unchanged from last year’s version, the popular Volkswagen Atlas gets just one noteworthy update for the 2026 model year. A Homelink rearview mirror is now included on SE with Technology trim levels and above for greater convenience. Aside from that small update, the Atlas is back to build on its already established reputation as a leader among midsize SUVs.
Volkswagen Atlas Features
Performance & Styling
Infused with the latest Volkswagen design DNA, the Atlas features a dynamic exterior appearance that sets it apart from your typical three-row SUV. Every Atlas features full LED front lighting, including low beams, high beams, turn signal indicators, Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), and side marker lights for superior visibility. R-Line models include R-Line badging, unique front and rear bumpers, a diffuser in glossy black paint at the rear, and stylish side skirts. Power comes in the form of a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that cranks out a robust 269 horsepower and 276 lb-ft of torque. The available 4MOTION with Active Control all-wheel-drive system is engineered to activate before wheelspin occurs, helping to mitigate traction losses. Built on the proven Volkswagen MQB chassis architecture, the Atlas delivers a responsive yet refined ride.
Sophisticated Interior
Clean yet functional and infused with a premium feel, the luxurious interior of the Volkswagen Atlas is optimized for ergonomics and usability. Its two-passenger third-row bench seat offers a 50/50 split along with both second-and third-row seats that feature fold-flat functionality to create up to a massive 96.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity. Hear your favorite songs the way the artists intended them to be heard with the most advanced optional Harman Kardon® Premium Audio System found in a Volkswagen to date. The innovative Discover Pro touchscreen infotainment system includes a capacitive-touch sensor (as in smartphone and tablet technology) which enables gesture controls like swiping and even pinch-zooming. Perfect for young drivers, the available Car-Net Security & Service also includes Family Guardian which gives you features like speed alert, boundary alert, and curfew alert.
Groundbreaking Safety
A combination of both passive and active safety systems on the Volkswagen Atlas helps give you a sense of peace of mind and confidence behind the wheel. A total of six standard airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) are found on every Atlas. Other examples of driver-assistance technology include Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), High Beam Control (Light Assist), and Overhead View Camera (Area View). Maneuver Braking, a part of the Park Distance Control system, is designed to mitigate or help prevent collisions with static obstacles to the front and rear.
Trims & Specs
SE
- Starting at $39,310 MSRP*
- 2.0-liter TSI Turbo 4-Cylinder Engine with 269 horsepower and 8-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic® and Sport mode
- IQ.DRIVE
- Digital Cockpit Pro with 12-inch center display
- 45w fast charging USBs including 3rd row
- 18-inch machined wheels
SE w/Technology
- Starting at $43,730 MSRP*
- Front grille with integrated lightbar
- Illuminated front and rear Volkswagen logos
- Remote start
- Power liftgate w/Easy Open
- PDC Front Rear
Atlas Peak Edition
- Starting at $48,060 MSRP*
- Atlas Peak Edition bumpers with lower side cladding and black mirror caps
- Power tilting & sliding panoramic sunroof
- Unique Atlas Peak Edition interior styling with V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces
- Trailer Hitch (5,000-lb)
- Illuminated Peak Edition dash décor
SEL
- Starting at $49,620 MSRP*
- 20-inch machined wheels
- Passenger power seat
- Head up display
- 30-color adjustable Interior Ambient lighting
- Navigation system
SEL Premium R-Line
- Starting at $54,630 MSRP*
- 21-inch machined wheels
- R-Line exterior styling
- Area view
- Stainless steel pedal cluster and foot rests
- Leather seating surfaces
*Starting MSRP excludes destination, taxes, title, other options, and dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price. Specifications, equipment, options, and prices are subject to change without notice. Some items may be unavailable when vehicle is built. Ask your dealer about availability of options and verify that the vehicle includes the equipment you ordered.
**Based on EPA estimates. See fueleconomy.gov for details. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors including your driving habits and vehicle condition.