Volkswagen Atlas seven-seat SUV unveiled

Volkswagen has unveiled the much anticipated Atlas large SUV, the brand’s three-row crossover designed for the North American market.

The Atlas is the largest model in the Volkswagen stable. Measuring 5037mm long, 1979mm wide and 1768mm tall, the Atlas is even larger than the Touareg. It finally gives Volkswagen a model to play in the large SUV segment, taking on established rivals such as the Mazda CX-9, Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota Kluger.

Based on Volkswagen’s transverse MQB platform, the Atlas will offered in front- and all-wheel-drive, with the former available with either a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine making 175kW or a normally aspirated 3.6-litre V6 developing 206kW. The all-paw variant will be exclusively powered by the V6. Both drivetrains are shuffled by an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The Atlas promises a ‘massive’ interior and loads of technology, including an all-digital instrumentation and the brand’s updated infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink connectivity. An optional Fender 12-speaker premium sound system with 12 channels and a 480-watt amplifier is also available.

Designed with a focus on families, Volkswagen has utilised a new second-row seat-folding design which allows access to the third-row even with child seats installed in the middle row.

The Atlas is also set to be one of the safest SUVs in its class thanks a wide array of safety features including Adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitor, forward collision prevention, lane keeping assist, post-collision braking, and parking assistant. LED headlights are standard fare, though LED taillights are optional fitment.

Produced exclusively in left hand drive – at least for now – the Atlas will not be heading for the Australian market, though Volkswagen Australia said it’s something that the company would no doubt consider bringing in if it’s available in right hand drive.