2024 Volkswagen Atlas Reviews: Is This Family SUV Still a Good Choice?

I approached the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas with high hopes. As someone familiar with Volkswagen’s reputation for quality, especially as a happy owner of a 2018 Tiguan, I anticipated a similar positive experience with their larger SUV. My Tiguan is a fantastic compact SUV, known for its responsive steering and balanced handling, making it a joy for daily driving. Naturally, I expected the Atlas to deliver the same Volkswagen driving dynamics in a larger, family-friendly package. However, my initial drive quickly changed my optimism, particularly when I experienced the steering, which felt far from the engaging VW feel I anticipated.

The 2024 Atlas represents a significant refresh, not a complete redesign, but substantial nonetheless. Volkswagen has updated its appearance with a new front fascia, redesigned taillights, and most notably, a dramatically different interior. Unlike the previous Atlas, which shared interior similarities with models like my Tiguan, the 2024 version adopts a cabin design reminiscent of the Mk8 GTI and the all-electric ID.4. Unfortunately, this interior transformation feels like a step backward in terms of user-friendliness and overall appeal.

My disappointment wasn’t limited to the interior. The Atlas, in my experience, stands out as one of the least engaging Volkswagens I’ve driven. This is particularly frustrating because the Atlas has considerable potential as a family SUV. Compounding this issue, the market now offers several compelling SUVs in the same category that surpass the Volkswagen in numerous critical areas. Despite my initial positive expectations, fueled by my appreciation for Volkswagen vehicles, the 2024 Atlas unfortunately misses the mark in several key aspects, preventing it from earning a strong recommendation.

2024 Volkswagen Atlas: Core Features and Updates

Nico DeMattia

For the 2024 model year, Volkswagen has implemented significant changes to the Atlas, encompassing both exterior and interior styling updates, as well as revisions to its powertrain options. The engine lineup has been streamlined to a single option: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, replacing the previous choices of a turbo-four and a naturally aspirated V6. The Atlas also incorporates new technology, including Volkswagen’s updated touchscreen infotainment system, and enhanced standard equipment.

While immediately recognizable as an Atlas, the 2024 model presents a noticeably updated appearance. The front end is entirely new, featuring redesigned headlights, a larger grille, and a revised front bumper. These changes collectively give the Atlas a broader and more substantial look, although the aesthetic improvement is debatable. The new rear taillight bar adds a touch of modernity compared to the simpler taillights of the previous model. However, in a market segment with increasingly stylish competitors like the Hyundai Palisade, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Toyota Grand Highlander, the updated VW Atlas risks blending into the background despite its refreshed design.

Nico DeMattia

The interior of the VW Atlas has undergone a significant transformation for 2024, which unfortunately represents a step back from its previous design. While the cabin initially appears attractive with its open layout, premium-looking wood trim, and uncluttered center console, the user experience is marred by the new infotainment system. Volkswagen has replaced its formerly user-friendly touchscreen interface with the system currently found in the Golf and ID.4. This new system is arguably one of the most frustrating and unintuitive infotainment setups available today. Simple tasks require navigating through complex submenus, and the touch-sensitive controls, intended to replace physical buttons for functions like volume and temperature, are often unresponsive. This lack of tactile feedback and responsiveness makes everyday adjustments a frustrating experience. Adding to the ergonomic issues, some climate controls, such as the rear defroster, are inexplicably located near the driver’s left knee, underneath the headlight controls, making them difficult to locate and operate while driving.

The frustrating nature of the new interior design is compounded by the fact that previous generations of Volkswagen interiors, often referred to as “Mk7,” were praised for their near-perfect ergonomics and ease of use. This makes the downgrade in interior functionality in the 2024 Atlas particularly disappointing.

Nico DeMattia

On a positive note, Volkswagen continues to excel in powertrain engineering. While the V6 engine option is no longer available, the updated four-cylinder engine receives a performance boost for 2024. It now produces 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, an increase from the previous 235 hp and 258 lb-ft. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and is available with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The enhanced 2.0-liter engine proves to be surprisingly capable, propelling the Atlas from 0 to 60 mph in around 7.5 seconds, which is respectable for a vehicle of its size. The engine’s performance is more than adequate, and it operates smoothly and refinedly. The eight-speed automatic transmission also performs well with smooth gear changes. However, a notable drawback is the artificial engine noise in Sport mode, which is excessively amplified and unrealistic, detracting from the driving experience.

Driving Dynamics of the 2024 Atlas

Despite the capable powertrain, the driving experience of the Atlas is a significant letdown. In contrast to the enjoyable handling characteristics of smaller Volkswagen SUVs like the Tiguan, the Atlas feels cumbersome and unrefined on the road. The steering is excessively light and lacks feedback, offering minimal connection to the road. While it is a large SUV and not intended to be a sports car, the steering feel is less engaging than many competitors. SUVs like the Toyota Grand Highlander and Mazda CX-90 demonstrate that it is possible to combine the practicality of a large family vehicle with enjoyable driving dynamics. Unfortunately, the Atlas seems to have missed this mark.

Nico DeMattia

Fortunately, the Atlas compensates for its handling deficiencies with a comfortable and compliant ride. It effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth and composed experience for passengers. The cabin is also well-insulated, minimizing road and wind noise. For drivers prioritizing ride comfort for daily commutes, the Atlas performs adequately. However, competitors like the Grand Highlander and CX-90 manage to offer both a comfortable ride and more engaging steering, presenting a more well-rounded driving experience.

2024 VW Atlas: Highlights and Drawbacks

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas does have some positive attributes. The three-row cabin is spacious and offers ample storage, creating a comfortable environment for passengers. Large windows contribute to good outward visibility, which is beneficial for maneuvering a vehicle of this size. Volkswagen’s safety systems, including automatic emergency braking and rear cross-traffic alert, are effective and provide added peace of mind.

Nico DeMattia

However, the drawbacks of the 2024 Atlas outweigh its positives. Beyond the frustrating infotainment system and lackluster steering, the digital instrument cluster is uninspired, the base SE model seats lack sufficient support for longer trips, and even minor details like overly tight cupholders detract from the overall experience.

Features, Options, and Market Competition

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SE base trim starts at $39,420 and includes desirable standard features such as heated and ventilated front seats, three-zone climate control, leatherette upholstery, and a 12-inch infotainment system. However, all-wheel drive (4Motion) is an optional extra, adding $1,900 to the base price.

The test vehicle included the Technology Package, which adds 20-inch wheels, illuminated VW badges, park distance control, a tow hitch, manual sunshades, and remote start, bringing the total price to $43,015. Notably, even with this package, a sunroof was not included, requiring a further upgrade.

Nico DeMattia

While the Atlas might seem adequate in isolation, it faces stiff competition in its segment. Vehicles like the Hyundai Palisade, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Grand Highlander offer more compelling designs and a more generous list of standard features. Additionally, several competitors, including the Toyota and Jeep Grand Cherokee, offer more fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain options, which are absent in the Atlas lineup.

Fuel Efficiency of the 2024 Atlas

Despite its smaller four-cylinder engine, the fuel economy of the Atlas is only marginally better than V6-powered rivals like the Palisade and Pilot. The Atlas achieves 19 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway, resulting in a combined 22 mpg. The Toyota Grand Highlander, for comparison, achieves a slightly better 23 mpg combined, and surpasses the Atlas in highway fuel economy.

EPA

Final Verdict: Value and Overall Assessment

In terms of pricing and features, the Volkswagen Atlas is competitively positioned within its segment. Its price point, standard equipment, engine performance, and fuel economy are comparable to its rivals. However, the cabin technology and design feel dated, particularly considering the Atlas’s platform, which dates back to 2017.

Ultimately, the 2024 Atlas falls short in its execution. While it offers a spacious three-row cabin, comfortable ride, and capable powertrain, the frustrating infotainment system, imprecise steering, and ergonomic shortcomings detract significantly from its appeal. Lacking a standout feature that differentiates it from competitors, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas unfortunately emerges as a less compelling option in the competitive three-row SUV segment.

Nico DeMattia