The model developed primarily for the North American and Chinese markets gets a modern look, but there will only be a two-liter turbocharged four-cylinder under the hood.
During the Chicago Auto Show, Volkswagen presented the modernization of the Atlas model series, which will now offer a more modern exterior design, a redesigned cabin, an emphasis on better materials, and the range of power units has also undergone a transformation, from which the V6 engine is unfortunately missing. But let’s take it step by step.
The modernization concerns both the classic seven-seater SUV Volkswagen Atlas, which was introduced in 2017 and subsequently modernized for the first time in 2020, as well as only the five-seater SUV Atlas Cross Sport, which was introduced to American markets in 2020. For the seven-seater model, it will be the second modernization, for the five-digit one by the first.
Changes to the exterior were mainly focused on the mask, which impresses with larger headlights, which are connected by an illuminated line in the upper part of the radiator grille. It was enlarged with the modernization, has a reduced amount of chrome and, with the exception of the basic equipment, will also offer an illuminated brand logo. The modernization of the bow is completed by a slightly modified front bumper.
No significant changes are visible from the profile, but the offer of cast wheels with new shapes, which have dimensions from 18 to 21 inches, has undergone a transformation. At the back, we again see prominent lights, which are again optically connected. The lighting (with the exception of the basic equipment) also received the rear brand logo.
Both models also received a more prominent rear spoiler, the five-seater Atlas Cross Sport also received an accentuated rear diffuser to differentiate it more from its seven-seater sibling. The cars in the presented top-of-the-line R trim also boast sports accessories, including four chrome exhaust tips.
But most of the fundamental changes took place in the cabin, where the automaker focused on materials and technological equipment. The ventilation vents have been modified, the buttons have been reduced, there is a new 10.25″ digital instrument panel behind the steering wheel and a free-standing 12″ infotainment screen on the dashboard with the familiar capacitive temperature and volume controls.
The automaker also offers new leather upholstery or new ambient lighting with 30 colors. In addition to the digital instrument panel, the standard equipment includes three-zone air conditioning, seat ventilation, steering wheel heating, wireless phone charging, six USB-C connectors, voice control, etc. Higher equipment will also offer premium leather upholstery with stitching, head-up display or advanced assistance systems , including adaptive cruise control.
Under the hood of the Atlas model family for the 2024 model year, there will be only a 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which means the end of V6 engines. However, the new 2.0 TSI unit will offer a maximum output of 198 kW and 370 Nm, so it is 25 kW more powerful than the older two-liter and only 5 kW weaker than the 3.6-liter V6 engine. At the same time, the torque exceeds both original engines.
The new two-liter engine will be connected only to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which sends power primarily to the front axle. However, 4Motion all-wheel drive will also be available across the range of equipment. The large SUV should be able to handle over 2.25 tons on the towing device.
The upgraded Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport for the 2024 model year will begin appearing in the brand’s US showrooms during the brand’s third quarter.
