Serving as Volkswagen’s largest SUV, the all-new Atlas model has been unveiled for its 2024 model year. Boasting three rows of seats, a fresh face and a downsized powertrain, this is the Audi Q7 that South Africa will never get.
Distinct bodylines, a familiar-looking front fascia and an interior recognizable to the premium Volkswagen lineup in South Africa, the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas has debuted at this year’s Chicago Auto Show. It may not be a model many local Volkswagen aficionados are familiar with, but this is the German automaker’s largest SUV offering that will compete against the Hyundai Palisade, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Audi Q7 and BMW X5.
Available in two body configurations namely the Atlas and Atlas Cross, this supersized American SUV has received new styling including LED headlights and an LED signature that spans just above an illuminated VW logo. Towards the rear is a slightly larger roof spoiler which features on both models while all models will feature a rear light bar that spans the width of the boot, save from the base model.
Wheel sizing spans from 18- to 20-inch depending on the specification while a fully kitted out R-Line derivative will boast 21-inch aluminium alloys. In addition to this, the sporty model will include R-Line badging and gloss black accents on the exterior, similar to models wearing the moniker in South Africa.
Inside, Volkswagen has taken what we know as a premium SUV and elevated it to another level. Most noticeable is a 12,0-inch touchscreen which is sized up from its predecessor. Behind the steering wheel is a 10,3-inch digital display while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard across the lineup. Premium materials have been opted for, replacing hard plastic on the centre console and door panels with higher-quality leatherette – it is competing with the upper echelon of SUVs after all.
As with premium Volkswagen offerings here, the Atlas will include the IQ.Drive driver assistance technology throughout the range. This includes lane-keep assist, automatic braking, adaptive cruise control, a head-up display and lane centering to name a few.
Under the bonnet, the 2023 Atlas does away with the VR6 engine and replaces it with a 2,0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder instead. The 200 kW and 370 N.m motor is coupled exclusively to an 8-speed automatic while the 4Motion all-wheel drive is available as an option.
The full-size Volkswagen SUV is expected to retail from $36 000 which prices it just less than R700 000 (excluding import costs). While the Atlas is produced at Volkswagen’s Chattanooga Assembly Plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee exclusively in left-hand drive format, could a derivative destined for South Africa compete against the full-size premium SUV segment in South Africa?
Powered by WordPress and CarmagRevamp . Back to Top