The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas: A Refined Giant Steps Up Its Game
The Volkswagen Atlas, a three-row SUV that arrived in 2018, has carved a niche for itself as a spacious and capable family hauler. For 2025, Volkswagen has given the Atlas a comprehensive update, aiming to refine its already strong formula and further solidify its position in the competitive midsize SUV market.
Exterior: A Subtle Evolution with a Modern Touch
The 2025 Atlas retains its familiar silhouette, but it gets a subtle yet significant makeover. The front fascia boasts a new, more aggressive grille with a prominent VW logo and sharper lines. Slimmer LED headlights with integrated daytime running lights add a touch of sophistication, while the lower bumper features a redesigned air intake and a more prominent skid plate for a rugged look.
Moving to the side, the Atlas gains new 18-inch alloy wheels (20-inch wheels are available on higher trims), and the side profile is further enhanced by the addition of chrome accents on the window trim and door handles. At the rear, the taillights have been redesigned with a more angular shape and LED technology. The rear bumper also receives a refresh with a new diffuser and integrated exhaust tips.
Interior: Comfort and Tech Take Center Stage
The interior of the 2025 Atlas is where the real improvements shine. While retaining its spacious and comfortable cabin, Volkswagen has introduced a host of upgrades to enhance the overall experience.
The most noticeable change is the introduction of a new, larger 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This system is powered by Volkswagen’s latest software, offering a more intuitive user interface and enhanced connectivity. The infotainment system integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and it comes equipped with navigation, a suite of apps, and a premium sound system.
The instrument cluster has also been upgraded to a digital 10.25-inch display, providing drivers with a customizable and informative interface. The new display offers a range of information, including speed, fuel level, navigation instructions, and driver assistance system status.
Beyond the technology upgrades, the 2025 Atlas also receives a boost in overall comfort. The seats are now more supportive and offer better lumbar support, while the interior materials have been upgraded for a more premium feel. The Atlas also gets a new multi-zone climate control system, ensuring optimal comfort for all passengers.
Performance: Refined Power and Efficiency
The 2025 Atlas continues to offer two engine options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a 3.6-liter V6 engine. The four-cylinder engine, standard on the base trim, delivers 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for everyday driving. The V6 engine, available on higher trims, pumps out 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, offering a more spirited driving experience.
Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which is known for its smooth and responsive shifts. The Atlas also features an optional all-wheel-drive system, enhancing its capability in various weather conditions.
Volkswagen has also focused on improving the Atlas’s fuel efficiency. The four-cylinder engine now achieves an estimated 23 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined, while the V6 engine offers an estimated 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined.
Safety: Advanced Features for Peace of Mind
Safety remains a top priority for Volkswagen, and the 2025 Atlas is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. The standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a driver attention monitor.
Higher trims of the Atlas offer optional features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, automatic parking assist, and a surround-view camera system. These advanced safety features provide drivers with an extra layer of protection and assistance on the road.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas is offered in four trim levels: S, SE, SEL, and SEL Premium. The base S trim starts at an MSRP of $33,995, while the top-of-the-line SEL Premium trim starts at an MSRP of $49,995.
The S trim comes standard with the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive, a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, cloth upholstery, and a suite of basic safety features. The SE trim adds features like a larger 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, leatherette upholstery, and heated front seats.
The SEL trim further enhances the experience with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. The top-of-the-line SEL Premium trim boasts features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a head-up display, and a suite of advanced safety features.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice for Families and Adventurers
The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas builds upon the strengths of its predecessor, offering a refined and versatile package that caters to a wide range of needs. With its spacious interior, comfortable ride, powerful engine options, and advanced safety features, the Atlas remains a compelling choice for families and adventurers alike.
Pros:
- Spacious and comfortable interior
- Powerful and efficient engine options
- Advanced safety features
- Improved technology and infotainment system
- Refined exterior design
Cons:
- Some competitors offer a more refined driving experience
- Fuel economy could be better
- The third-row seating is best suited for children
Overall, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas is a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering a compelling combination of practicality, comfort, and technology. It’s a strong contender in the competitive midsize SUV market and is well-positioned to continue its success in the years to come.
Note: This article is a fictional review and does not reflect official specifications or pricing from Volkswagen.
