Why Buy a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas
The minivan is an industry leader when it comes to combining passenger space, cargo space, utility, and economy.
For drivers who want everything that a minivan offers, but in a cleaner, more attractive package, Volkswagen developed the Atlas. The largest member of the VW line-up, the Atlas was introduced in 2017 as a successor to, and evolution of, the Touareg. Aside from being easier to pronounce, there are plenty of reasons why the new Atlas has become a top seller in the mid-size SUV category. So why should you buy a 2022 VW Atlas?
For drivers who want everything that a minivan offers, but in a cleaner, more attractive package, Volkswagen developed the Atlas. The largest member of the VW line-up, the Atlas was introduced in 2017 as a successor to, and evolution of, the Touareg. Aside from being easier to pronounce, there are plenty of reasons why the new Atlas has become a top seller in the mid-size SUV category. So why should you buy a 2022 VW Atlas?
Performance Features
Whether you opt for the four-cylinder or more-powerful V-6 engine in the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas, you get confident and capable acceleration. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard on both, with smooth shifts up and down. The four-cylinder turns out 235 horsepower, while the V-6 raises it up to 276 horses. Of course, this means lower fuel numbers in the bigger engine, but it’s not that bad – while the four-cylinder gets 21 mpg city and 25 mpg highway in two-wheel drive form, the larger engine offers 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.
The Atlas handles confidently, particularly if you opt for the 4Motion all-wheel drive. While this puts a small dent in the fuel economy, it is certainly a good choice for areas with poor roads and regular inclement weather. Steering is responsive and well-weighted, and there is minimal body lean when sharp maneuvering. Ride quality is exceptional, with a quiet cabin.
Style and Technology
Smart exterior design helps the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas stand out in the mid-size segment, while at the same time fitting in with the VW family. There’s a clear family resemblance to the smaller Tiguan, including the horizontal-bar front grille.
The roomy and airy interior of the Atlas is the highlight of the vehicle. Simple and uncluttered, there is seating for up to seven passengers, with even the third row offering 33.7 inches of leg room and 38.3 inches of headroom – plenty for children and even smaller adults. Even with all the seats in place, there is 20.6 cubic feet of storage behind the third row. Stow the second and third rows, and you have up to 96.8 cubic feet of storage. Both of these measurements are on par with larger competitors, bordering even full-size SUVs.
A 6.5-inch touch screen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto comes standard at the base level, while an eight-inch unit is offered as an upgrade. The larger touch screen comes with SiriusXM satellite radio along with an introductory period, while Bluetooth hands-free phone and streaming audio are standard across the lineup. The base six-speaker audio system can be upgraded to a Fender Premium Audio System that features 11 speakers plus a subwoofer. While the base model features a single USB-C port and a standard USB port, more ports are available at higher trim levels.
Smart exterior design helps the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas stand out in the mid-size segment, while at the same time fitting in with the VW family. There’s a clear family resemblance to the smaller Tiguan, including the horizontal-bar front grille.
The roomy and airy interior of the Atlas is the highlight of the vehicle. Simple and uncluttered, there is seating for up to seven passengers, with even the third row offering 33.7 inches of leg room and 38.3 inches of headroom – plenty for children and even smaller adults. Even with all the seats in place, there is 20.6 cubic feet of storage behind the third row. Stow the second and third rows, and you have up to 96.8 cubic feet of storage. Both of these measurements are on par with larger competitors, bordering even full-size SUVs.
A 6.5-inch touch screen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto comes standard at the base level, while an eight-inch unit is offered as an upgrade. The larger touch screen comes with SiriusXM satellite radio along with an introductory period, while Bluetooth hands-free phone and streaming audio are standard across the lineup. The base six-speaker audio system can be upgraded to a Fender Premium Audio System that features 11 speakers plus a subwoofer. While the base model features a single USB-C port and a standard USB port, more ports are available at higher trim levels.
Safety
When you’re hauling along a full complement of passengers and cargo, you want to be confident that it is all safe in your hands. The 2022 VW Atlas features a rearview camera, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, and forward automatic emergency braking at the base level, with additional features at higher trim levels. These advanced driver assistance features are part of the IQ.DRIVE package that includes front and rear parking sensors, a surround-view parking camera system, hands-free park assist, adaptive cruise control, road sign recognition, lane keep assist and adaptive headlights with automatic high beams.
Trim Levels
With the removal of the base S trim for the new model year, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas has five trim levels on offer.
The base SE trim offers quite a bit for an entry-level trim vehicle. Automatic climate control is standard, keeping all three rows comfy. Keyless entry with push-button start makes it easy to get in and get moving, even with your hands full. Unlike its competitors, the Atlas SE starts out with heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and full synthetic upholstery throughout.
Stepping up to the Atlas SE with Technology trim adds plenty of tech to the package. The larger touch screen is standard at this level, along with wireless device charging to eliminate wires in the cabin. Tri-zone automatic climate control provides comfort for everyone, and with standard remote start, you can get the Atlas warmed up before you get in on a cold day! At the rear, you get a hands-free power liftgate for easy loading and unloading. The 20-inch wheels provide a stand-out look.
A significant step up comes with the SEL trim, where the IQ.DRIVE safety suite is standard along with all-wheel drive. A panoramic sunroof opens up the cabin in the daylight, while ambient interior lighting adds luxury touches as the sun goes down. A navigation system is standard, while the driver will enjoy the heated steering wheel in the cold months.
For the most part, the SEL R-Line is simply a sport version of the SEL. While the V-6 is an option in the SEL, it is standard in the Atlas R-Line. This trim adds restyled bumpers and “R” badges so it stands out from its basic SEL sibling.
At the top of the Atlas line is the SEL Premium R-Line, which takes all the style of the R-Line and adds comforts and amenities to push the mid-size SUV into the luxury realm. The synthetic upholstery is upgraded to genuine leather, while the front seats get ventilation and the rear seats get heating. The Fender stereo system is standard, as is the surround-view camera system with hands-free park assist. Big 21-inch wheels wrap up the exterior package.
Want To Learn More?
There are plenty of reasons to be looking to buy a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. From style to capability, to capacity and simplicity, it is an SUV that fits what many shoppers are looking for. Come check out the 2022 VW Atlas today at West Broad Volkswagen in Richmond, VA to see how it fits your driving needs!
There are plenty of reasons to be looking to buy a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. From style to capability, to capacity and simplicity, it is an SUV that fits what many shoppers are looking for. Come check out the 2022 VW Atlas today at West Broad Volkswagen in Richmond, VA to see how it fits your driving needs!