Is The Atlas The Worst SUV On The Market?
I was given the keys to this VW Atlas for a week. Here are my thoughts.
A new SUV that was added to the Volkswagen lineup in 2018, the Atlas showed much promise to the company and what it is capable of doing. The Atlas is meant to be a prefect choice for the family with plenty of options. Stacked against the world, how does the Atlas fair when put to the test? Does it make a great SUV for the family? Or does it fall on its face? Here's what I think.
Styling
"...headlights from the rest..."
The styling of the Atlas holds true to what every signature Volkswagen looks like. A bit of bulkiness with some edges and curves. Add in the razor-like grille and headlights from the rest of the Volkswagen line-up, and we get a bigger version of the Tiguan. To sum it up, it's as boring looking as some of the Porsche line-up. At least some of the competition has a bit of character. The Atlas isn't exciting to look at.
Interior Styling
"...it all felt a bit..."
The Atlas interior has a plethora of space inside. Not only that, but there is sort of a luxury feel to it as well. It isn't as noticeable, but it is there. Maybe it is due to some of the panels and plastics that were chosen to be placed inside. Maybe it is because of the panoramic sunroof. OR it is everything all added up. Who knows? What ruined it was that it all felt a bit cheap. Sure the seats were comfortable but they didn't give the support needed to stay in place while driving.
Price and Options
So, how much does this Volkswagen Atlas cost? Only a hair over $46,000. That is a hefty price for a hefty SUV. What does it come with? For safety, the Atlas has 6 airbags with advanced protection, ABS, anti-slip regulation, engine-brake assist, electronic brake distribution, hydraulic brake assist, intelligent crash response system, electronic differential lock, park assistance, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear-traffic alert, forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. For comfort and convenience, the Atlas has the power lift gate, heated front power seats, third row seating, roll-up manual sunshades, Bluetooth connectivity, and an 8 speaker sound system. Not much for a car this pricey.
Performance
"...keeps everything comfortable..."
Well, the Atlas does not have much power to really move out of its own way. But, steering is light and on-point. The suspension keeps everything comfortable and tidy. What hurts the Atlas is mainly the fuel economy. A mere 17 miles to the gallon in the city, 23 miles to the gallon on the highway, and a combined fuel economy of 19 miles to the gallon. Compared to the competition, this is just not good at all. Sure, ti also was awarded an overall "5 stars" on the government safety ratings, but it scored "4 stars" on the roll-over and driver front crash. Other SUVs that the Atlas competes against has "5 stars" for every category.
Conclusion
So, is the Atlas the worst SUV on the market? I would say yes. This doesn't mean it can't improve or another SUV takes its place. There are other SUVs out there that are better equipped and safer for way less of the price. The SUV that comes to mind is the Subaru Ascent. That is the best SUV for a family. Why? It is safer and cheaper. Fuel economy is even better too. The Atlas, I would not recommend it to anyone. Just stay clear of it for now.
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Comments (14)
The Touareg is cooler.
Lol, I have so many questions. I know everyone has their own opinions on these things but as a family man with 4 kids, and an automotive reviewer who has driven all the completion as well, I can easily say the Atlas is a great family SUV. Size wise, it’s one of the best bang for your buck you can get. I do like the new Telluride and Palisade but still really enjoy owning an Atlas. 👍
Understandable. But I'd prefer the Ascent over anything.
Just bought one.
I shopped the competition (ascent, Highlander, Pilot, Telluride, Explorer) the Atlas won me over with interior room and fit and finish.
I have a family of 5 snd I’m happy with the purchase
I’ve tested it in one word
soulless SUV
Indeed.
And don’t let me start talking about the 4 cylinder it sounds like the engine is being ******
Isn't this just the Audi Q8 in a VW suit
Pretty much.
Not bad. Give it a try before you judge
I had it for a week. That's long enough to figure it all out.
Ok then.