2021 Volkswagen Atlas: Key Enhancements and Upgrades

CHICAGO— If you found the Volkswagen Atlas’ design a bit too plain, you will appreciate the facelifted 2021 model. Volkswagen has refined the upper grille, drawing it deeper into the bumper, which gives the Atlas a striking resemblance to its smaller counterpart, the Atlas Cross Sport that debuted in 2020. Moreover, the lower grille features unique design elements with silver accents that highlight the opening and faux bull bar. This aesthetic enhancement provides the understated Atlas with much-needed personality.

At the rear, the Atlas has upgraded to LED taillights, maintaining the overall shape and size. Additionally, it features a more prominent rear bumper, which, combined with the new defined jawline, adds three inches to the Atlas’ overall length.

Interior Upgrades

Volkswagen is also enhancing the interior with a new steering wheel design and optional contrast-color stitching. All models, except for the base version, will include an 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system. Moreover, the infotainment system undergoes significant upgrades, including Volkswagen’s Car-Net telematics, which features a variety of subscription-based services. Among these innovations is a 4G-LTE hot spot, allowing up to four devices to connect to the Internet seamlessly via the Car-Net Wi-Fi hot spot.

Engine Options

In terms of performance, the engine lineup remains unchanged, featuring a 235 hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a 276 hp 3.6-liter V6 engine. Notably, the availability of the 2.0T engine expands: it is now offered on the top-of-the-line SEL model, which was previously only available with the V6. Additionally, buyers can opt for the four-cylinder engine with 4Motion all-wheel drive.

These changes are poised to allow customers to select a more luxurious and capable Atlas without a significant increase in price. Consequently, more information regarding pricing will be available as the 2021 Atlas approaches its launch this spring.