2024 VW Atlas Review: Mediocre Refresh Falls Short in Competitive SUV Segment
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- By Dushyant
- (@dishs)
The 2024 VW Atlas, in its quest to be comfortable, spacious, and affordable, has received a mid-cycle refresh. But let me be brutally honest, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. This three-row SUV, designed specifically for the North American market, falls short in several areas. It feels generic and cheap, lacking that certain je ne sais quoi that sets it apart from the competition.
Sure, there are some updates, like new front and rear fascias and a slightly improved interior. The material choices are slightly more upscale, but the overall design language still feels sterile. And let's not forget the infotainment screen. Yes, it's bigger, but it's also more difficult to use without physical controls. The software has stability issues, crashing not once, but twice during the review. Not exactly a great sign for a car that's nearly 50 grand.
Under the hood, the Atlas has simplified its drivetrain options, saying goodbye to the charismatic VR6 engine in favor of the more refined EA888. While the new engine offers more torque and improved performance, it lacks the soul-stirring sound of its predecessor. The Atlas is built on the previous generation MQB platform, which means it's not as cutting-edge as some of its competitors. It's a quiet and capable vehicle, but it lacks the driving excitement and inspiration that you'd expect from a three-row SUV.
In a highly competitive segment, the Atlas struggles to stand out. Its mediocrity is evident when compared to the likes of the CX-9, Grand Highlander, and Pilot. These alternatives offer more refinement, better handling, and a higher level of attention to detail. While the Atlas may be functional and affordable, it fails to deliver that extra spark that makes a car truly memorable. So, if you're in the market for a three-row SUV, I implore you to look beyond the Atlas and explore the other options available.
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Image copyright Youtube
Image copyright Youtube
Image copyright Youtube
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Viewer Reactions for 2024 VW Atlas | Updated in The Wrong Places
Criticism of VW removing buttons from their models
Positive comments about the material quality of the interior
Comparison to previous generation of the Atlas
Positive comments about the simplicity and usability of the vehicle
Criticism of the touch buttons
Comparison to other three-row SUVs like the Telluride and Palisade
Mention of other vehicles that would be considered instead of the Atlas
Criticism of VW neglecting their biggest sellers
Mention of the value propositions of the Atlas
Mention of the reliability of VW engines
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