The Volkswagen Atlas, a large SUV priced around 60 million won (approximately $45,000 USD), recently held a test drive event that garnered significant attention. While the Atlas is marketed as a full-size SUV, it actually falls into the mid-size category and serves as a strategic model targeting the North American market. Competing models include the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade.
Upon seeing the Atlas in person, I found its design surprisingly appealing. Compared to its two competing models, which tend to have divisive aesthetics, the Atlas features a more neutral front design. It also outperforms in terms of overall size, interior space, and trunk capacity.
Initially, I had some preconceived notions about the Atlas. It shares the same MQB platform as the Volkswagen Golf, Passat, and Tiguan, and uses the same 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo gasoline engine (EA888 evo4) found in the Golf GTI. I worried it might struggle to handle its weight, which exceeds two tons.
However, during the test drive covering over 75 miles (120 km), I felt no lack of power from the Atlas. From the start, it exhibited a lively response with high torque, and the noise suppression was quite satisfactory.
I captured a quick video sketch of the test drive event.
The Atlas boasts a maximum output of 273 horsepower and a torque of 37.7 kg.m. While this may seem a bit underwhelming compared to larger SUVs, the actual driving experience feels like it delivers over 300 horsepower.
The high torque available from the lower RPMs felt reminiscent of Volkswagen's best-selling TDI diesel engine.
I initially thought a 3.0-liter engine would be necessary, but I found the 2.0-liter turbo gasoline engine sufficient. The response, especially in sports mode, was impressive as it smoothly accelerated into higher speeds.
However, due to the limitations of engine displacement, I felt a slight strain during high-speed driving beyond 93 mph (150 km/h). But honestly, it's not typical to drive at such high speeds on domestic roads.
I want to commend Volkswagen for their efficient engine tuning, focusing on the most commonly used driving ranges. In sports mode, the engine produces a decent exhaust note, likely enhanced by a sound generator through the speakers.
One downside, however, is that the Atlas does not meet the fuel efficiency expectations associated with the Volkswagen brand. While models like the Tiguan, Passat, and Golf typically achieve double-digit average fuel efficiency, the Atlas's actual fuel efficiency hovers around 7 to 8 km/L.
In reality, expecting high fuel efficiency from a mid-size SUV weighing over two tons with only a 2.0-liter turbo engine, and without a hybrid option, is unrealistic. Competing models like the new Palisade also struggle to exceed 8 to 9 km/L without a hybrid system. Given that the Atlas is designed for agile movement from low RPMs with its smaller engine, achieving better fuel efficiency than that is challenging.
However, considering the benefits of lower engine displacement for tax purposes, the 1 to 2 km difference in fuel efficiency compared to competitors may not be a significant drawback.
Looking at the Atlas's interior, it features the same layout as the latest Volkswagen models. Although the materials and trim choices may not be particularly luxurious, they present a clean aesthetic that remains appealing over time.
However, the improvements in the ADAS features related to semi-autonomous driving were impressive. The "Travel Assist" function, which maintains distance from the car ahead while keeping the lane, has been upgraded to learn the driver's preferred lane position, providing steering assistance accordingly.
For instance, if a driver prefers to drive closer to the left lane, they can steer left for more than five seconds while the ADAS is active, and the system will adapt to that lane position in the future.
This feature enhances comfort while driving in the first lane. Volkswagen Korea designed this custom function to ensure that the ADAS operates safely even in poor weather conditions where radar detection is difficult or when lane markings are not visible.
The massage function in the driver's seat is a nice touch. However, there is no separate button for activating it near the infotainment monitor or gear console. Instead, it's cleverly hidden near the power and memory seat settings, so keep an eye out for it.
When the third-row seats are folded down, there is ample legroom, and the trunk space is generous enough (2,735 liters) to accommodate camping gear or other uses, even with the second-row seats left in place.
The Atlas could be a great choice for those considering a budget-friendly second car for family outings and weekend leisure activities. With confirmed pricing for two trim levels and no additional options, it offers a price advantage of nearly 10 million won (approximately $7,500 USD) compared to similar competitors.
Lastly, regarding color selection, buyers can choose from eight different options. Personally, I recommend the Silver and Black colors.
The basic White color is a safe choice, representing Volkswagen well.
Finally, I noticed a minor issue with the daytime running light settings. While it may not matter at night, having the horizontal bar-type LED lights illuminated during the day could enhance visibility, similar to the Touareg.
