When Amherst, NY families are looking for an elegant three-row SUV to help them along to their next adventure, they find the new Volkswagen Atlas is more than up to the challenge. And it has been that way since 2017. The Atlas is the largest model produced by Volkswagen, and found in our new inventory at Northtown Volkswagen. But it may also be considered a work of art.
Introduction of the Volkswagen Atlas
The Atlas, as we know it, was unveiled at the LA Auto Show, in the Fall of 2016. Released with the backdrop of the legendary Santa Monica Pier, the Atlas made an immediate impression with auto enthusiasts. It seems those in attendance were ready for the next new SUV with seating for up to seven.
But the Atlas didn't look much different than the three-row, midsize SUV Volkswagen lovers, today. Its front end resembled the grille of a truck with large headlights illuminating the road ahead. The Atlas was tall, long, and wide. With just one look, spectators could tell they were likely looking at the next wave of family-friendly SUVs.
Though technology has evolved quite a bit since its reveal, the all-new Atlas hosted the digital cluster we now know as the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit. This set up was a high-definition system that displays your Volkswagen's vital statistics while on the road. It also included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which have become staples in the Volkswagen lineup for years now.
There is one thing you can say about the early versions of the Volkswagen Atlas; it was ahead of the times. It included a second row of seats that could slide back and forth for each entry and exit from the back row. The introduction of the Volkswagen Atlas really set the tone for the vehicle's existence on Amherst, NY roads.
The Evolution of the Volkswagen Atlas
When it comes to new cars, they will never find future success if they don't evolve. That means updating features and technology. Since its reveal, the Volkswagen has carried the same two powertrain options, but the list of features is constantly being refreshed, so you get a new feel with every new year.
Under the hood, the Volkswagen Atlas packs the base turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, worth 235 horsepower. Then there is the boisterous upgrade; A 276-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine. It comes with front-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission, or you can get the enhanced all-wheel drive system for a remarkable commute.
In 2023, Volkswagen presented shoppers with the option to add a massive 10.25-inch Digital Gauge Cluster to brilliantly broadcast the information that makes your drive safer and easier. In 2021, the Atlas got its first facelift, with enhanced headlight and tail light designs and LED lighting added to the entire lineup. The visual upgrade gave the Atlas the aggressive and bold look you see on the road, today.
The Volkswagen Atlas added a member to the lineup in 2020, when Volkswagen released the Volkswagen Atlas Sport. This two-row variation still includes all the great features and technology the Volkswagen Atlas is known for. The biggest difference is the number of seats in the cabin.
Volkswagen Atlas Accolades
The team at Northtown Volkswagen knows the Atlas is a great option for local families that need a stylish and exciting way to get around town. But it helps to have a third-party opinion recognizing its achievements, as well. Here is a quick list of accolades national publications have heaped on the Volkswagen Atlas
- 2019 Ranked on Parents Magazine 10 Best Family Cars
- 2020 Family Car of the Year by Cars.com
- 2022 Best Value SUV by Parents Magazine
- 2023 Consumer Reports Recommended SUV, based on Safe and Reliable, Good Performance, Comfortable and Convenient
There are plenty of reasons to consider the Volkswagen Atlas as you search for your ideal family traveler. Contact our experts at Northtown Volkswagen and learn why this could be the right option for you, at our lot near Amherst, NY.