When Volkswagen announced it was doing a seven-seat SUV aimed squarely at U.S. customers, suffice it to say some critics were skeptical — especially in the wake of a massive diesel scandal. But when the first images were released, the Atlas SUV looked to hit every mark the American market looks for: big presence, three rows, seven seats, family-friendly. The only caveat is that the Atlas is based on the same architecture as the range-topping $50,000 Audi Q7. Surely VW’s new America-mobile would be similarly priced. Not so. Not even close — at least not the base model.
Volkswagen announced today that its own new range-topping SUV will start at just $30,500. For that, you’ll get the four-cylinder turbocharged 2.0-liter TSI engine, along with a 6.5-inch-touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For just $3,000 more, you can opt for the 3.6-liter V6 S AWD model. Worth it.
That said, the top-of-the-line Atlas SEL Premium comes with a sticker price of $48,490. But you get Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, 20-inch wheels, navigation, LED taillights, ventilated leather seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel and automatic high beam control. All in, that brings the Atlas up to the most basic Q7. Will all the extra bells and whistles be worth it, or will the base model prove to be the bargain you want? The waiting game begins.
More Atlas Details
Volkswagen unveiled a new three-row, seven-passenger SUV, tragically and aptly named Atlas, which is aimed squarely at the American market in hopes of regaining some credibility. Read the Story
