Volkswagen Atlas Peak Edition Evaluation: Analyzing Its Attractiveness and Drawbacks for Prospective Buyers

Unlike a lot of crossovers, I doubt that many individuals purchase a Volkswagen Atlas by chance. What I’m implying is that drivers looking for a reliable new car typically opt for something domestic or Japanese. The mainstream German family vehicle is a bit more eccentric than the average car buyer might prefer, but for those who resonate with it, the Atlas is essentially a larger VW.

I appreciated some of the unique features, such as the dashboard that allows the backlit badge to glow through quite clearly, but not all of them appealed to me. I found the touch-sensitive controls in this new car very confusing, for instance. It was particularly striking as I had just tested several Toyotas, but overall, I can value (most of) the deliberate choices to be distinct.

I’m just uncertain if I would choose to spend my money on one of these instead of a Highlander or a Telluride.

The Essentials

VW introduced the Atlas in 2017 and has subsequently provided it with two major updates: one in 2021 and another in 2024. However, it remains fundamentally the same underneath. The current Atlas and its two-row Cross Sport variant utilize an updated version of the MQB platform, which is shared with smaller models like the Golf and Audi A3.

The recent design update is only in its second year, and while it appears to be aging adequately, I prefer the look of the 2021-2023 Atlas. Up front, it’s not as streamlined as before, with more noticeable DRLs and a full-width LED bar across both headlights in higher trims. That said, I’m fond of the LED taillight bar on the newer model, and I particularly like the Avocado Green Pearl paint on my test vehicle.

Inside, the Atlas aims to be tech-savvy, featuring a 12-inch infotainment screen and an optional 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit gauge display. VW and Audi were among the first brands to offer in-cluster navigation and similar features, and I believe it still holds up well. My test model also had a significant amount of orange stitching, as it was a Peak Edition—basically, a soft-road special.

Currently, the VW Atlas comes with a single engine choice: a 2.0-liter turbocharged TSI four-cylinder generating 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Previously, you could get an Atlas with a VR6 engine, but that option has been eliminated. An eight-speed automatic gearbox transmits this output to all four wheels on most models, although the base SE features standard front-wheel drive.

Experiencing the 2025 VW Atlas Peak Edition

First things first, before settling into the driver’s seat and igniting the engine, I secured my daughters’ car seats—one rear-facing and the other front-facing. We were all thrilled to discover ample space, even after I adjusted the chair to my driving posture. I’m quite a large fellow at 6’5″ and 290 pounds, but I’m happy to report that the VW Atlas is spacious enough for a swinging three-year-old to sit behind someone of my size without issues.

Now, don’t anticipate the same comfort in the third row. This is a common concern among midsize crossovers, so it’s not specifically a criticism of VW. People seem to gravitate toward cars like this, prompting manufacturers to continue creating them with inadequate room for actual adults to occupy that area.

It was time to take the vehicle for a spin. What I thought was a fault with VW’s Apple CarPlay turned out to be an issue with my cable. Once I switched it out, I didn’t experience any further connectivity problems. However, I struggled with adjusting the volume and HVAC using the dash controls. I’m not the first reviewer to complain about these, so I’ll refrain from elaborating and simply state that they’re quite poor. I’m grateful VW reintroduced physical buttons on the steering wheel, and I quickly adapted to using those controls instead. I found myself wrestling with the touchscreen to set the temperature.

Alright, one more complaint regarding the interface because I don’t want to dwell on it: Who in the world decided that the sunroof should open by swiping your finger where you would typically find a button, a rocker switch, or literally anything else? It feels like opening an iPhone 3G. It’s bizarre.

Moving on. The Atlas might appear too large for a turbo four-cylinder, but it accelerates quickly in the lower range. Changing lanes after a stop sign is effortless. Acceleration does level off at higher speeds, as is typical of many engines like this, but you never question whether you can make a pass.

In fact, if you listen to the vehicle rather than relying solely on your instincts, you might think you’re capable of anything. The Atlas generates so much artificial engine noise when you’re in Sport mode that you might confuse the SUV for a GTI… until it’s time to squeeze into a tight parking space. It reminds me of the old “Drivers Wanted” VW ads that I was so fond of as a 17-year-old with a VR6 Corrado. (Heck, it was even green like this one.)

I won’t heap excessive praise on the Atlas’ handling, but it’s not bad. I think it finds a fair compromise between sporty and comfortable, even if it’s not extremely leaning toward either. The term “unremarkable” seems too harsh, but it’s definitely closer to that than “outstanding” or even “exceptional.”

I also drove on some loose gravel since I was in the Peak Edition. The 30-inch Continental CrossContact tires performed adequately in terms of grip, but the Atlas’ weight and low ground clearance caused its undercarriage to meet many creek rocks. Nonetheless, I never became stuck, even as the first car to traverse that area following a flood, and it was able to power out of any situation, even while dragging its belly.

The Advantages and Disadvantages

While not all of VW’s decisions regarding the Atlas were spot-on, I still view its character as a significant asset since very few other crossovers strive to stand out. It fully embraces the theme, so to say. The ambient lighting is so vivid that my children likened it to a spaceship; the noise produced when you accelerate is adorably corny in the most VW way possible; and it gladly pretends to be an off-road vehicle if that brings you joy.

If only it didn’t unnecessarily complicate things with user interface controls: that seems to be the Atlas’ most critical flaw. While it’s convenient that VW allows you to select “warm hands” or “cool feet” through its Smart Climate display, I would prefer to just push a button or twist a knob. It doesn’t take any additional time.

VW Atlas Features, Options, and Rivals

You can acquire a new Atlas starting at $40,735, assuming you’re fine with the front-wheel-drive SE model. The base Atlas still includes LED headlights with dynamic cornering, the large 12-inch infotainment display, a digital gauge cluster, and three-zone climate control. Overall, the standard features are commendable, and you can still add AWD for an additional $1,900.

If you’re interested in a Peak Edition, like the one I tested, you’ll need to shell out significantly more: it now retails for $49,485 for 2026. There was a notable price increase, as the sticker on my 2025 test vehicle indicated a price of $48,080. Nevertheless, the Peak Edition includes all-terrain tires, Titan Black interior with orange accents, brushed aluminum pedals, and some additional rugged aesthetics.

The Atlas competes in a fiercely contested segment, not just in quality but also in quantity. American counterparts include the Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia, as well as the Ford Explorer. Similarly sized Japanese crossovers like the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot are also quite popular. Arguably, the leaders in this category are the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade twins, which are newly refreshed for 2026.

Fuel Efficiency

The 2025 VW Atlas Peak Edition essentially matches its all-wheel drive crossover competition in fuel efficiency with ratings of 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway / 20 mpg combined. It is slightly outperformed by the Chevy Traverse, which also features a turbo four-cylinder, while yielding nearly identical results to the V6-powered Honda Pilot TrailSport and Kia Telluride.

Assessment and Conclusion

Reflecting on my week with the VW Atlas, I believe it would certainly bring joy to some individuals. It has a cheerful demeanor in a way that many competitors often lack. However, it doesn’t measure up to Japanese and domestic alternatives in several aspects. As I increasingly value practicality over novelty, I question if the Atlas would be my choice.

It has its target audience, without a doubt. I wouldn’t label anyone foolish for choosing one. But I might privately wonder how challenging it is for them to adjust the HVAC when the temperature drops. Or maybe one gets accustomed to it! I don’t think I’d ever spend my own money to find out.

VW provided The Drive with a seven-day loan of this vehicle for the purpose of writing this review.

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