2022 Volkswagen Atlas
Price Estimate
$20,000 - $48,999
$20,000 - $48,999
The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas is available in six trims: SE, SE with Technology Package, SEL, SEL R-Line, SEL R-Line Black, and SEL Premium R-Line.
The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas stands out in the midsize SUV segment with its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and German-engineered driving dynamics. This model year brings several updates, including new standard features across the lineup and revised styling for the R-Line trims. The Atlas's combination of practicality, technology, and refined performance makes it a compelling option for families seeking a versatile, well-equipped three-row SUV. The Atlas Cross Sport, a two-row version with a rakish back end, is a distinct model covered separately.
The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offers two engine options to suit different driving preferences. The base powerplant is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides adequate power for daily driving and offers a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
For those seeking more robust performance, a 3.6-liter V6 engine is available, generating 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant delivers stronger acceleration and enhanced towing capability, making it an excellent choice for families who frequently travel with a full load or plan to tow.
Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard across the lineup, and Volkswagen's 4Motion all-wheel drive system is available for improved traction in challenging weather conditions.
The Atlas's towing capacity is competitive for its class, with properly equipped V6 models capable of pulling up to 5,000 pounds. This makes it suitable for hauling small boats, campers, or trailers.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2022 Atlas SUV a top five-star overall safety rating.
Standard safety features across all 2022 Atlas trims include:
The Atlas also offers a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance technologies, with many features standard across all trims:
The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offers a driving experience that balances comfort with capability. The steering is well-weighted and responsive, allowing for easy maneuvering in urban environments and stable handling on the highway, although the Atlas isn’t a small vehicle.
The base 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provides sufficient power for most driving scenarios, though it may feel strained when fully loaded or climbing steep grades. The optional 3.6-liter V6 offers noticeably more pep, with ample power on tap for merging and passing maneuvers.
Ride quality is an Atlas strong point. The suspension does a commendable job of absorbing road imperfections, resulting in a smooth and composed ride. Road and wind noise are well-controlled, contributing to a quiet cabin environment, especially at highway speeds.
The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas interior is well-designed, featuring a spacious cabin that prioritizes comfort and functionality. Premium materials and solid build quality give the Atlas an upscale feel, particularly in higher trims.
One of the Atlas's standout features is its generous interior space. All three rows offer comfortable seating, with the third row being particularly spacious for the class and capable of accommodating adults on longer trips. The second row can have a three-person bench seat or captain's chair.
Cargo space is 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 55.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a cavernous 96.8 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. This class-leading cargo capacity makes the Atlas exceptionally versatile for hauling everything from groceries to furniture.
2022 Volkswagen Atlas interior features, varying by trim, include:
The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas comes well-equipped with modern technology. The standard MIB II infotainment system includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen display (upgraded to 8 inches on higher trims) with App-Connect smartphone integration, allowing for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
Key available technology features on various Atlas trims include:
The fuel economy for the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas varies depending on the engine and drivetrain. The EPA estimates reflect:
2022 Volkswagen Atlas reviews on Kelley Blue Book offer mixed results, with an average rating of 3.9 out of 5. Scores are strong for value, comfort, and styling but slightly below average for quality and reliability.
The market is awash with midsize three-row crossovers, but adult-friendly seating from front to back isn’t always part of the package. The VW Atlas delivers solid cabin comfort regardless of seating position. Few competitors can match its combination of passenger room and cargo capacity, making it an excellent choice for larger families or those who frequently haul bulky items. The user-friendly technology, including the intuitive infotainment system and available digital cockpit, adds to its appeal.
The Atlas's driving dynamics strike a good balance between comfort and capability. While it may not be the sportiest handler in its class, it offers a smooth, quiet ride well-suited for long family road trips. The available V6 engine provides strong performance, though at the cost of fuel efficiency.
Safety is another strong point, with the Atlas earning top marks in crash tests and offering a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, many of which are standard across the lineup.
Where does the 2022 Atlas come up short? Fuel economy, particularly with the V6 engine, is not class-leading. Additionally, while the base four-cylinder engine is adequate for most driving, it can feel underpowered when fully loaded. Pricing is another factor to consider. While the Atlas offers good value in its lower trims, higher-end models can get expensive, approaching luxury SUV territory.
Whether you should buy a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider buying if you:
However, you might want to consider alternatives if:
Based on data from NHTSA and carcomplaints.com, there are no widespread reports of transmission problems specific to the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. The eight-speed automatic transmission used in the Atlas has been generally reliable in recent model years. However, it's always wise to stay informed about potential issues and keep up with regular maintenance.
If you're considering a used 2022 Atlas, it's a good idea to:
Yes, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas does feature some changes from the previous model year:
Buyers can choose from six core editions:
© 2024 CoPilot. All Rights Reserved.