- Volkswagen has updated the Atlas for the 2027 model year.
- The second generation Atlas received engine upgrades that produced more power and torque.
- Inside, Volkswagen uses more premium materials and finishes.
Volkswagen has launched the second generation of its best-selling Atlas SUV for 2027. By 2025, SUVs accounted for 80% of Volkswagen’s US sales, and the full-size Atlas represented a large part of that number.
As more and more large three-row SUVs crowd the market, the aging first-generation model, released nearly a decade ago, needed a refresh—and now is the time.
Photo by: Volkswagen
The first thing to know about the new Atlas is that it shares the same platform and exterior styling as the Teramont Pro marketed in China. On the outside, the two cars are nearly identical, with similar front fascias and rear light bar arrangements. Volkswagen says there are several differences between the two models, including the addition of physical door handles on the Atlas, versus electronic door handles on the Teramont.
Despite the similarities between the two, the new Atlas retains a similar shape to the old model, using the updated MQB platform found in many other Volkswagen Group cars. There are also three new colors for the Atlas called Sacramento Green, Blackberry, and Sandstone. We saw Sacramento Green in person and can guarantee that it is a solid color choice in the lineup.
Inside, the interior has been completely reworked, with the biggest differences coming to the front. A 12.9-inch touchscreen is standard on the base model, while an optional 15-inch center screen is available on higher trims. The screen is the same as those found on other VW products, such as the Tiguan, and features controversial haptic touch sliders that control volume and HVAC controls.
But don’t worry, because there is a physical volume knob on the center console. This knob is multi-purpose and can also be used to select driving modes and lighting settings in the car.
Photo by: Volkswagen
The materials in Atlas have also been improved. The dashboard features real wood accents for top trim models, and Nappa leather is available in two different colors. We got an early look at the car and spent some time in the interior, which puts a premium on the quality of the materials. However, there is still a lot of piano black plastic that fades easily.
The new Atlas has a distinctive design on the door cards and passenger side dashboard. Both have embedded LEDs and can change color along with other interior lights.
Photo by: Volkswagen
Other tech features include two wireless MagSafe charging docks up front, USB-C ports in all three rows, and available heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, with the front row receiving massage seats on higher trims.
The new Atlas is powered by an updated 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, the same as in the Tiguan. Due to the Atlas’ larger size, it receives a power increase to 282 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque. The base model offers standard front-wheel drive, while all models can be optioned with Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel drive system.
Prices have not been announced; however, expect prices to start in the mid-$40,000 range, with top trim models approaching $55,000. The next Atlas is expected to hit dealers in the fall.
Gallery: 2027 Volkswagen Atlas
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Source: Volkswagen
Motorcycle Pickup1: The new Volkswagen Atlas looks sharp, and in a highly competitive market where every brand has a big 3-row crossover, a new generation was needed. That said, the lack of a hybrid option, as well as Volkswagen’s messy user interface and touch controls, may turn some buyers away.
