Are you planning to get a Volkswagen Atlas? First introduced in 2017 and produced in 2018, the Atlas can comfortably take your entire family on a road trip. But, not all Atlas model years are equal, and early ones have a reputation for unreliability. So, what are the best Volkswagen Atlas model years?
Here are the most reliable Volkswagen Atlas model years in chronological order:
Early Volkswagen Atlas model years had a reputation for unreliability that undermined their overall performance. The 2020 Atlas was the model’s first mechanically dependable year. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration complaints dropped by 95% compared to the previous model years. Its four recalls were far fewer in number and involved noncritical parts.
The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas keeps the goodies introduced in previous model years. It offers a choice between a fuel-efficient inline-four engine and a more powerful V6. Both options are fairly economical when it comes to fuel consumption.
No family vehicle is complete without the ability to tow a trailer. The V6 engine trims have a factory-installed trailer hitch that can tow up to 5,000 pounds. The inline-four engine trims have lower towing capacity.
On the road, the 2020 Atlas is responsive and handles well. However, the otherwise smooth ride can become harsh when you drive over rough road surfaces.
Convenience is where the Volkswagen Atlas shines. Its third row of seats can comfortably fit adult passengers. The SUV can carry plenty of cargo, especially if you fold both seat rows in the back. Cup holders and storage spaces are everywhere, ensuring you have somewhere to stash your handhelds wherever you sit. However, the interior cabin is plain compared to other SUV models.
All trim levels have an easy-to-use infotainment system that keeps you and your passengers in good spirits. The 8-inch touchscreen is small by modern standards but respectable.
The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and would have gotten the Top Safety Pick Award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety if the headlights hadn’t fallen short during testing. Furthermore, it offered options for automated emergency braking and forward-collision warning. The driver-assistance technology options put the 2020 Atlas a step ahead of its counterparts in the 3-row midline SUV segment.
After the problem-laden 2021 Volkswagen Atlas, VW bounced back with the next model year. The 2022 Atlas showed fewer problems and recalls than its predecessor, although it still received more complaints than the 2020.
One of the six recalls for the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas covers a defectiveengine connecting rod. The issue can damage the engine. If you intend to get a 2022 Atlas, check its records to see if it either didn’t come from the affected production lots or already received a new engine to correct the issue.
The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas made automated emergency braking and forward-collision warning standard features on all trim levels. Other safety features include blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. When the 2022 Atlas was first offered, adaptive cruise control was an option for some trim levels.
Volkswagen dropped the S trim for the 2022 Atlas. The new base-level model is the SE trim. While costlier, the SE trim has more standard features and received a price reduction to help make it more appealing to buyers.
Why fix something that isn’t broken in the first place? The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas sticks close to its immediate predecessor. Improvements include the 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster in all but the starting-level SE trim as standard-issue equipment.
Unfortunately, some 2023 Volkswagen Atlas units also share the faulty engine connecting rod responsible for the recalls with the 2022 model year. If you’re getting a 2023 Atlas, check its records to see if it still has the bad connecting rod.
Aside from the engine connecting rod recall, the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas has few complaints and recalls. The improved reliability will save on maintenance fees.
The newest model year, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas is a welcome refresh. VW redesigned the SUV’s front, rear, and interior to look and feel more exciting.
A 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a new electronic shift-by-wire gear selector make driving the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas easier. The infotainment system upgrades the screen to a full 12 inches for easier use.
Environmental Protection Agency emission standards forced Volkswagen to drop the 3.6L V6 engine. Starting with the 2024 model year, the Atlas will use only an improved version of the turbocharged 2.0L inline-four gasoline engine. It retains its ability to tow trailer loads of up to 5,000 lb (2,268 kg).
VW plans to release a new Atlas model year in 2025. The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas might see a reduction in its price tag, making it more affordable for budget-conscious drivers.
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