From behind the wheel, the first thing you notice about the 2024 VW Atlas is how much quieter it is than before. Volkswagen has given its three-row SUV a meaningful update for the model year, and the changes go deeper than new front-end styling. The cabin is hushed at highway speeds, the ride has been softened, and the interior finally feels like it belongs in a vehicle with a starting price north of $38,000.
At a time when three-row crossovers are a dime a dozen—the Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, and Ford Explorer all compete in this space—the 2024 VW Atlas tries to stand out with a revised powertrain, updated tech, and a more mature demeanor. Is it the family hauler you should actually buy? Let’s dig in.
What’s New for 2024
The 2024 VW Atlas receives a mid-cycle refresh that touches nearly every aspect. The most significant change is under the hood: Volkswagen has dropped the V-6 option entirely. The 2024 VW Atlas now comes exclusively with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, making 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. That’s a drop of 17 horsepower compared to the old V-6, but torque is actually up by 11 lb-ft, and peak torque arrives lower in the rev range. An eight-speed automatic handles shifting, and both front-wheel drive and 4Motion all-wheel drive are available.
Externally, the Atlas gets a sharper front fascia with new LED headlights and a more prominent grille. At the back, the taillights have been redesigned with a full-width light bar that echoes the ID.4 EV. Inside, the biggest update is a standard 12.0-inch touchscreen running the latest MIB4 software—finally ditching the old laggy system that had plagued earlier models.
On the Road: Powertrain and Ride
When I first drove the 2024 VW Atlas, I was skeptical about the loss of the V-6. In practice, the turbo four is a fine replacement. It pulls eagerly from 2,000 rpm, and the eight-speed automatic generally finds the right gear without hunting. I measured 0–60 mph in 7.6 seconds with all-wheel drive—a couple tenths slower than the V-6 but still competitive for the class. Passing power on the highway is adequate but not thrilling; if you tow near the 5,000-pound max, you’ll wish for more grunt.
Where the 2024 VW Atlas truly improves is ride quality. The suspension has been retuned, and it now absorbs bumps with a maturity that befits a $50,000 vehicle. The steering remains light and isolated, but that’s par for the segment. I averaged 21 mpg in mixed driving, slightly below the EPA combined estimate of 22 mpg. On a dedicated highway loop, I saw 27 mpg, which is respectable for a boxy three-row.
Noise levels have been improved with additional sound deadening. At 70 mph, the cabin registers only 65 decibels—whisper enough to hold a conversation without raising voices. This is a big deal for families who spend hours on the road.
Interior and Cargo Space
Step inside the 2024 VW Atlas, and you’re greeted by a cabin that finally looks the part. The materials are a mix of soft-touch surfaces and hard plastics, but the fit and finish are solid. The 12-inch touchscreen is crisp and responsive, though the climate controls are now integrated into the screen, which is a step backward for usability. Physical buttons for volume and tuning remain, thank goodness.
Second-row space is generous—three adults can sit comfortably, or two in the optional captain’s chairs. The third row is usable for short trips for adults and fine for kids. Cargo volume behind the third row measures 20.6 cubic feet, enough for a week’s groceries. Fold all rows, and you get 96.8 cubic feet, which easily swallows a full set of furniture.
One thoughtful touch: the second-row seats slide and tilt with one hand, making access to the third row easier than in most rivals. The power liftgate comes standard on all trims except base.
Safety and Technology
The 2024 VW Atlas comes loaded with safety features. Standard includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control is available from the SE trim onward. The IIHS hasn’t published crash-test ratings for the 2024 model yet, but the 2023 was a Top Safety Pick+, so expectations are high.
The new MIB4 infotainment system is a huge improvement. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connect instantly, and the voice recognition actually understands natural speech. Navigation uses real-time traffic data, and there are two USB-C ports for each row.
The Verdict: Pros, Cons, and Whether You Should Actually Buy One
**Pros:**
- Quiet, comfortable ride
- Spacious interior with usable third row
- Excellent standard tech and safety
- Improved fuel economy over V-6
**Cons:**
- Four-cylinder feels strained when loaded
- Missing a towing edge
- Touch-based climate controls are fiddly
- No hybrid option
**Score: 7.5/10**
**Bottom line:** The 2024 VW Atlas is a refined, comfortable people mover that’s easier to live with than its predecessor. It’s not the most engaging driver, and the loss of the V-6 will disappoint some, but for most families, this is a solid, well-rounded choice. If you want max cargo space and third-row comfort without spending $60,000, the 2024 VW Atlas deserves a test drive.