Chicago 2023 : 2024 Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport | Car News

• Volkswagen introduced its new 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport at the Chicago Auto Show.

• Both models get a new 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder, turbocharged engine producing 269 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque.

• Volkswagen promises that it will be easier to distinguish the Atlas from the Atlas Cross Sport.

The Atlas first debuted on our market in 2018. Six years later, VW makes significant changes to its SUV to bring it up to date. The company mentions a major upgrade, but in reality we can speak of a new generation even if the structure of the model remains the same.

And we should talk about models in the plural, because Volkswagen presented two vehicles: the Atlas and the coupe version, the Atlas Cross Sport. Certainly, the two SUVs are key players in VW’s lineup in Canada.

“The Atlas has struck a chord with Canadian consumers since its launch. With this update, the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport offer even more of the style, comfort and convenience our customers have been looking for,” said Pierre Boutin, President and CEO of Volkswagen Group Canada.

Here is a summary of the changes to the models.

styling
First off, in terms of aesthetics, there’s a new front-end signature. On all versions, except for the medium models, we note new LED lighting for the headlights, connected by an LED strip to give a little more character. The logo is also illuminated on the radiator grille. At the rear, the same approach is followed on the same versions with an illuminated Volkswagen logo.

At the rear, too, the diffuser of the Cross Sport variant gets a more aggressive design than that of the current generation, which will help to more easily distinguish the models from each other. It was one of the company’s stated goals to create a stronger distinction between the two products.

New 18- to 20-inch wheels (21-inch with the R-Line package) as well as larger fins on the back of the roof add style to both vehicle profiles.

On board
The interior has also been significantly upgraded, including more sophisticated materials and more generous standard equipment. All versions now benefit from a heated steering wheel as standard, as well as ventilated front seats and Climatronic three-zone automatic air conditioning. In the richest trim level there will be quilted leather with a diamond pattern. In addition to a 12-inch screen for the multimedia system, all models also have a 10.25-inch information screen in the instrument cluster.

As we’ve seen on other recently refreshed models in the range, 30-color ambient lighting will be available as an option. Technically, the new model will be up to date. The interior even offers six USB-C ports as standard (two more can be added), as well as wireless connection to favorite applications. USB-C charging will even offer a fast 45-watt capacity.

mechanics
Volkswagen makes it easier here. The 3.6-liter V6 engine goes away, as does the 2.0-liter, turbocharged 4-cylinder base configuration that offered 235 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.

Now all the Atlases run on a different 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder good for 269 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. This is joined by an 8-speed automatic transmission, and of course 4Motion all-wheel drive is included. Note that towing capacity remains at 5,000lb with this new engine.

It also promises to be more economical at the pump than the outgoing V6 engine.

The Atlas 2024 and Atlas Cross Sport are expected early in the third quarter of the year.

Of course we’ll get back to you after the launch with our driving impressions.