2018 Volkswagen Atlas

2018 Volkswagen Atlas

Two adults fit comfortably in the third row with room for luggage behind them. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard; 12-speaker Fender audio is optional. The base model comes with a 235-hp turbo four, front-wheel drive, and an eight-speed automatic. All-wheel drive is available if you choose the 276-hp V-6. Optional safety tech includes automated emergency braking and lane-keeping assist.

The 2018 Atlas is very good at what it does, with a combination of interior versatility and easy-to-use technology that overcomes its average driving experience. 

If you're shopping for a three-row SUV and know you'll use the third row consistently (especially if you have a young child who requires a child-safety seat), the Atlas deserves a long, hard look. And Volkswagen has made things easier on the wallet, as well: The Atlas gets a six-year/72,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.

There are two engines available for the Atlas: The base engine is a 235-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 258 pounds-feet of torque. Both models I drove were equipped with the optional 276-hp, 3.6-liter V-6 that makes 266 pounds-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic is the only transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available on V-6 models.

The Atlas' styling is very vertical. The sides seem to go up forever, and a sense of boxiness is the most prominent visual aesthetic of the whole package. Beyond looks, however, this approach clearly benefits cabin room for both cargo and occupants.

The Volkswagen Atlas 2.0T starts at $31,675 for the base S model, which includes LED headlights, separate front and rear climate controls, and a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Moving up to the $34,765 SE trim adds niceties such as a proximity key with push-button start, rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic headlights, heated front seats, a power driver’s seat, an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a blind-spot monitoring system.