After the update for the 2021 YM, we don’t expect huge changes on the 2022 VW Atlas. The styling is new and the SUV is introducing fresh front and rear fascias. We could see the new interior layout for the upcoming model. The Atlas SUV is available with two and three-row setup and it could serve as the base for the first Volkswagen truck in the US. Space is one of the main advantages. However, the size increases the overall weight, which hurts the fuel economy.
The German SUV is reliable ever since its introduction in 2018. The bold and big design drew the attention right from the start. The latest update surprised the fans, coming during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the company has left something for the following season, since the interior is mostly untouched for the 2022 VW Atlas.
2022 VW Atlas Specifications
There are two engines available for the 2022 VW Atlas. The company is not making announcements about the hybrid unit. It might be a plan to surprise the competition, by not unveiling the cards. A 2.0-liter turbo-four is the main powerplant. Back at the beginning, this engine was not available at the higher trim levels, but Volkswagen made it a part of SEL packages. The fuel economy is not the greatest, even with a four-pot drivetrain. It can return 21/24 mpg alongside 235 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. An all-wheel drive, popular 4Matic, will consume a little bit more gas.
Still, the smaller block is averaging better numbers than a V6. A 3.6-liter unit is delivering 276 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque but makes 17/23 mpg in the city/highway. All-wheel drive is also available. With 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, the 2022 VW Atlas will be at the same level as most of the competition. On the other hand, the class leaders are able to haul 6,000 and more pounds.
2022 VW Atlas Hybrid
For a more efficient ride, we could see a hybrid unit in the future. The German carmaker is making moves in the electrification area, but everything is still blurry about the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. the ID platform is making progress and soon we will see the first vehicles built on this concept. However, VW starts with smaller units and the ID4 will be only 180 inches long. The Atlas SUV adds nearly 20 cm and an extra row for seating.
Still, the vehicle needs an improvement in the fuel economy and emission areas. Everyone still remembers the scandal from 2015. Nevertheless, Volkswagen moved on and now it is more active in the EV market.
Trim Levels and Optional Packages
The 2022 VW Atlas is going to be very spacious. Although nearly 200 inches long, the SUV is not belonging to the full-size segment. The vehicle also offers nice equipment for a non-premium model. Cloth seats and 18-inch wheels are standard. But, if you want more, you will need to get the 2022 VW Atlas SE. It brings leatherette upholstery, a large infotainment screen, a power liftgate and driver’s seats. Technology package upgrades with active cruise control and parking assist. Furthermore, the R-Line is enhancing the look of the Atlas SUV. Black accents, 20-inch five-spoke wheels, and a few other details are making this version recognizable.
The base SEL bundle comes with active headlights, a digital cockpit, panoramic roof, and power front seats. A V6 is standard as well. You can upgrade the SUV with the R-Line 21-inch wheels and other features this package is bringing. The Premium trim also becomes an option. You can also combine accessories with the R-Line. All-wheel drive is standard, leather seats, all-around camera view, and premium audio are there as well.
2022 VW Atlas Cross Sport
The 2022 VW Atlas Cross Sport is a two-row version of the large SUV. The smaller vehicle cuts 20 inches and brings some unique styling solutions. Still, the Cross Sport is not bringing too much of excitement compared to many other five-seat SUVs. The vehicle is using the same drivetrains and most packages as its bigger brother.
Prices
The base two-row 2022 VW Atlas is going to cost $32,000. The SE package upgrades it by nearly $3,500 and the SEL adds another $7k. The Technology package will cost you around $2,000. The R-Line is a little bit less expensive, while the Premium features are going to cost buyers $5,000. A heavily-loaded Atlas is in the luxury waters with a price tag above $50,000.
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