2024 Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport Preview
It’s hard to predict the American auto market, but one thing is undoubtedly true for automakers: build an excellent 3-row SUV and people will buy it. Volkswagen finally figured that out in 2018 when the first Atlas SUV went on sale. Built in Chattanooga, TN, the family van is a hot seller for VW, and for 2024 it and its two-row counterpart – the Atlas Cross Sport – are getting a makeover.
The Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport enter 2024 with a simplified powertrain lineup. VW dropped the V6 option for the new model year, opting for a turbocharged 4-cylinder with 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. The new turbocharged engine is far more powerful than the previous standard 4-cylinder and comes close to the power of the V6, keeping the Atlas’ towing capacity at 5,000 pounds. Like the 2023 model, the engine will be mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and either front- or all-wheel drive.
Volkswagen updates the exterior of the Atlas duo with a new front fascia that brings an updated LED lighting system and adaptive headlights as standard. Most trim levels get an LED light bar above the grille, and the lower fascia accommodates air intakes. Wheel sizes range from 18 to 20 inches for all but the R-Line trim, which gets gloss black 21-inch wheels.
The interior is upgraded with a standard heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, a height-adjustable passenger seat and paddle shifters. A new center console features a lower storage tray, and leather upholstery is available in lower trim levels than before. A 12-inch floating infotainment screen is standard, and VW equips each trim with its superb configurable digital instrument cluster. The Digital Cockpit Pro system provides map views, vehicle information and other displays right in front of the driver.
The previous Atlas missed out on a Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), but VW subsequently updated its IQ.Drive safety package for the new model year, which might help. The system now comes standard with handy semi-autonomous driving features that work on the highway with lane centering assistance and adaptive cruise control systems.
No pricing or specific release dates are available, but VW says the Atlas 2024 and Atlas Cross Sport will launch in early Q3 2023. The new model will likely be a bit more expensive than its predecessor’s starting price of $30,000 due to the upgrade engine, tech and of course inflation.
Volkswagen is the source of information in this article. It was correct on February 9, 2023, but may have changed since that date. Always confirm product details and availability on the car manufacturer’s website or with your local dealer.
Chris Teague is a veteran automotive and technology writer. In addition to JDPower.comhis work appears in Forbes, The Drive, Autoweek and others.