The new Atlas has 282 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail
When it comes to sales, Volkswagen Canada had its best September ever with 7,629 vehicles sold, with the bulk of sales coming from its SUVs - the Tiguan, Taos and Atlas. As SUVs continue to dominate the market over all, to remain competitive VW introduced an all-new 2027 Atlas three-row SUV with smart technology, a more powerful and fuel efficient gas engine and a new three-year or 45,000 kilometre maintenance package at no extra cost.
“Customers perceive us at a higher cost of maintenance than competitors,” said Patrick Danielson, director of product planning and brand strategy at Volkswagen Group Canada Inc. “The hypothesis is that because we are the only mainline German automaker we get looped in with the luxury brands in terms of that perception of German cars being more expensive to maintain,” he said. So, VW is footing the bill for maintenance fees to “give value to the customer and counteract that perception,” Danielson said ahead of the drive.
Available in three trims, the base Atlas starts at $53,795 plus $2,450 for freight and pre-delivery inspection. Compared to the first-generation Atlas, the second-generation costs about $1,800 more. That’s not bad considering it has more standard features and the vehicle is made in Chattanooga, Tenn. therefore subject to 25-per-cent tariffs.
The new 2027 Volkswagen Atlas in Huntsville, Ala., home to NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, which developed the Saturn V rocket that carried astronauts to the moon during the Apollo missions.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail
The Atlas has grown slightly longer while staying the same width as the previous generation.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail
We drive the Atlas in Huntsville, Alabama, better known as “Rocket City” because its home to NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. It’s claim to fame? Developing the Saturn V rocket that carried astronauts to the moon during the Apollo missions. My test vehicle is a top-trim model loaded with goodies such as a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system, second-row ventilated seats, massaging front seats and a 15-inch infotainment screen versus the standard 12.9-inch display. Powered by an updated two-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, it’s mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive. The engine produces 282 horsepower – that’s an extra 13 compared to the previous generation - and 258 lb-ft of torque.
While the Atlas has pleasant road manners, the engine does struggle when pushed. For example, when accelerating, the engine whines while merging onto the highway quickly or passing slower vehicles. With a curb weight of 2,087 kilograms (4,568 pounds) and two passengers onboard it can feel heavy. But at cruising speeds, its comfortable, confident and relatively quiet in the cabin.
Even though there’s no hybrid for 2027, VW confirmed an Atlas hybrid will arrive on the next mid-cycle refresh, which will likely be in 2029. That’s good news because they are late to the party. Direct rivals, such as Toyota, Hyundai and Kia, already offer hybrid powertrains in the Highlander, Hyundai and Telluride. At least the upgraded engine is more fuel efficient, averaging 10 litres per 100 kilometres combined highway and city driving versus 11.1-11.5 in the previous generation.
When it comes to practicality and functionality, the Atlas shines. The SUV has grown longer; while the width and height remain the same. Inside, there’s seating for six or seven passengers, depending on if you opt for second-row captain’s chairs or a traditional bench seat. For larger families, the second-row bench seat can accommodate three car seats. The second-row seats also tilt and slide forward with car seats in place, so you can access the third-row. Granted, it’s a tight squeeze and adults might find it awkward and unglamourous squeezing into the third row. But for kids it won’t be an issue. And once inside, there’s good head- and legroom. Thanks to a tall roof, rear windows and a large panoramic sunroof, it doesn’t feel claustrophobic in the last row.
The second-row bench seat can accommodate three car seats.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail
There is still ample space behind the third row of seats.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail
The cargo space is slightly larger, too, because of the new tailgate design that sits flush with the rear bumper. Accessing the cargo area is simple. With the key fob in hand, you can kick under the rear bumper and the power liftgate opens easily.
One of the coolest features is a new onboard gaming system – a first in the U.S. It’ll be offered to Americans first as a bundled in-vehicle premium subscription package that’s free for three months. And come to Canada later – no date or pricing was announced. The package includes among other things a Wi-Fi hotspot and AirConsole Games, which lets passengers play games on the centre screen using their smartphone as controller. You can access up to 20 games including Tetris, PAC-Man and Uno. Volkswagen hasn’t said what the price will be in Canada for the games, but in the U.S. the package is free for the first three months and than there is a $149 per year subscription fee.
Some games include ambient lighting integration, for up to 30 colours, so you can change the colours of the cabin to create a cool, funky setting in the cabin.
The 2027 Volkswagen Atlas arrives in Canadian dealerships this fall.
Passengers can play games on the centre screen using their smartphone as controller.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail
There are 30 colours of ambient interior that create a light show flowing seamlessly through the dashboard, front footwells and door panels.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail
Looks
The new Atlas is a sleek, sporty and attractive SUV with double-stacked front LED headlights and a more pronounced rear spoiler. New wheel designs, from 18 to 21 inches with machined alloy and black finishes, are available as are bolder colours such as Blackberry Metallic, Boreal Green Metallic and Ascot Grey.
Interior
The cabin has gone upscale with modern tech-friendly features. My tester included a 15-inch centre screen, real wood accents and 30 colours of ambient interior that create a light show flowing seamlessly through the dashboard, front footwells and door panels. There’s more smart space because the gear shifter has moved to the steering column, freeing up room for large dual cupholders and two side-by-side Qi2 wireless chargers.
There’s more smart space because the gear shifter has moved to the steering column, freeing up room for large dual cupholders and two side-by-side Qi2 wireless chargers.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail
The second row of seats slides and tilt forward, even with car seats on them, for easy access for kids to get into the third row. It is a bit tight for adults.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail
Performance
It has pleasant road manners, but sometimes the engine feels underpowered when pushed. It’s available with all-wheel drive and four driving modes – comfort, sport, eco and custom. It can also tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Technology
New standard safety technology features include a front centre airbag, park distance control and VW’s IQ.Drive advanced driver assistance technology with hands-on semi-automated capability. But the system isn’t as advanced as some rivals.
Cargo
With 600 litres of cargo space, there’s room for all your kids’ goodies. If you need more space, drop the third and second row seats to create a long, flat cargo area with up to 2,701 litres of space.
The verdict
VW’s all-new Atlas is a family-friendly vehicle that’s practical, spacious and filled with cool tech features that’ll keep kids and parents alike entertained.
Tech specs
2027 Volkswagen Atlas
- Base price: $53,795 - $63,995, plus $2,450 for freight and pre-delivery inspection
- Engine: Two-litre turbocharged four-cylinder
- Horsepower/torque (lb-ft): 282 / 258
- Transmission/drive: Eight-speed automatic / all-wheel drive
- Fuel consumption (city/highway/combined): 11.4/8.4/10 litres/100 kilometres
- Alternatives: Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander/Grand Highlander
The writer was a guest of the automaker. Content was not subject to approval.
Shopping for a new car? Check out the new Globe Drive Build and Price Tool to see the latest discounts, rebates and rates on new cars, trucks and SUVs. Click here to get your price.