2022 Volkswagen Atlas Review: Unpretentious Sophistication
If size matters to you, but you aren't willing to invest in a full-size SUV, then the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas may be the ideal midsize for you. As the largest vehicle in the classification, it boasts loads of interior space, but it also presents buyers with the option of a capable V6 engine that develops 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, improving the towing capacity to 5,000 pounds. The capacious cabin is well-appointed, especially since the SE replaces the outgoing S as the base model. The higher base tech specs of the Volkswagen Atlas mean that it stacks up well against rivals like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Subaru Ascent. A choice between a fuel-efficient and more performance-focused engine, easy access to all-wheel drive, and seating for up to seven passengers combine to make the 2022 Atlas very compelling in one of the most popular car market segments.
2022 Atlas Exterior
Dimensions
| Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 200.7 in | 117.3 in | 70.1 in | 78.3 in | 67.0 in | 67.6 in | 4,262.0 lbs |
2022 Atlas Performance
Handling and Driving Impressions
If you're looking for a fun-to-drive car, then the VW Atlas is not the SUV for you. However, this is not was it was designed for. The steering is light, so maneuvering into those relatively tight parking spots is easy, but feedback is non-existent. This makes the large vehicle easy to handle, but there is no athleticism or dexterity. So while this may not impress those who have test-driven a Mazda CX-9, it's a whole other story once you start considering ride comfort.
This is where the Atlas really shines, as it eats up bumps in the road without breaking its stride and cosets occupants in a quiet and cozy cabin that never feels claustrophobic. This is why we feel the Sport Mode is really just there as a gimmick. The VW Atlas is a solid and pragmatic cruiser that families will love to be inside during those long vacation trips.
2022 Atlas Interior
2022 Atlas Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
| Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 7 Years / 100,000 Miles | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles | 2 Years / 20,000 Miles |
US NHTSA Crash Test Result
| Overall Rating | Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Side Crash Rating | Rollover Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 |
Verdict: Is the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas A Good SUV?
Three-row SUVs are becoming more commonplace as American families want more space and decent levels of comfort in their daily drivers. And within this classification, the Volkswagen Atlas is one of the better products. Despite falling into the midsize category, it delivers oodles of space and a usable third row of seating. The cabin is well put together, and there are plenty of standard features to enjoy. On top of all this, the trunk space behind the third row is very competitive. However, there are some downsides we feel obliged to point out. The most obvious is the lackluster engines on offer. Sure, they get the job done, but this is a huge and heavy vehicle, and neither powerplant has enough oomph to move it with gusto. The driving dynamics are also rather dull and uninspired, so while it is easy to handle, it won't ever be fun behind the wheel. And while the interior is actually pretty good, it looks kind of plain. Nevertheless, none of this is enough to detract from the fact that the Atlas is a comfortable and composed family cruiser that can even be made to feel like a true premium vehicle if you are willing to pay for one of the upper trim levels.
2022 Volkswagen Atlas Comparisons
2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs Honda Pilot
While Volkswagen presents buyers with a lot of choices, with multiple trims, engine, and drivetrain configurations, Honda keeps things simple with the Pilot. The only engine is a V6, which supplies a heartier 280 horsepower that somehow manages to deliver better mpg than the Volkswagen Atlas. Both are spacious SUVs that can conceivably seat seven in comfort (and up to eight in the Honda). However, the VW boasts better quality materials and construction, as well as more standard tech. That said, you get access to more premium features in the Pilot at a lower price point when looking at the upper trims. Unless you can afford the top-tier Honda Pilot, we'd suggest sticking with an Atlas at SE Tech level for the extra passenger and cargo space and comparable tech and safety specs.
2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs Kia Telluride
When it comes to three-row SUVs, the Kia Telluride is a tough competitor to beat. The V6 under the hood is far more capable than the one presented in the Atlas, but power isn't what matters here. It's the incredible standard safety suite and unbeatable passenger and cargo space that place the Kia so far ahead of the pack. It's cheaper than the Volkswagen when comparing base models, and the value you get for your money is undeniable. Worth mentioning is that the Telluride boasts great reliability expectations, and Kia covers it with an industry-leading warranty, both categories where the Atlas simply can't match it. Finally, the Telluride is proof that a practical three-row SUV need not be dull to look at or to drive.