2023 Volkswagen Atlas Reviews, Pricing & Specs

The Volkswagen Atlas lineup is tweaked for 2023, and the model benefits from the addition of VW's Digital Cockpit.

Without a midsize SUV in its lineup, Volkswagen desperately needed a larger family hauler to remain competitive. To solve the problem, the automaker introduced the Atlas for the 2018 model year. VW dropped the base S trim for 2023 and also updated the Atlas’s tech with its excellent Digital Cockpit system.

The 2023 Atlas comes in five trims: SE, SE with Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line Black, and SEL Premium R-Line. The base engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and there’s also an available 3.6-liter V6 that produces 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Both engines come paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and either front- or all-wheel drive (FWD or AWD).

Neither engine offers a particularly thrilling driving experience. The four-cylinder can sound coarse at times, but it’s capable around town. It loses its fizz at higher speeds and requires effort to pass on the highway. The V6 is noticeably stronger, but it still needs a few more horsepower and better torque.

Volkswagen does offer a smaller Atlas Cross Sport with two rows and five seats, but the larger Atlas is available with up to seven seats. Models equipped with second-row captain’s chairs lose a seat, for a six-passenger capacity. The base SE trim gets synthetic leather with heated front seats, but higher trims come with leather and add ventilation. Second-row heated seats are also available.

The Atlas picked up VW’s Digital Cockpit Pro and a 10-inch display for 2023. The system offers multiple configuration and display options, including full-color navigation and maps. Other displays include audio functions, vehicle stats, and phone call information. The display works in concert with the standard 6.5- or available 8-inch touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, along with Bluetooth, USB inputs, and six speakers. Higher trim levels pick up wireless smartphone connectivity, more USB ports, 12 speakers, navigation, and more.

The 2023 Atlas has not been crash tested yet, but the 2022 model saw mixed results from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It earned “Good” scores in all crash test areas but fell short in front-crash prevention tests. Volkswagen includes a few driver aids as standard equipment, including blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts, forward-collision warnings, and automatic emergency braking. High trim levels add parking sensors, road-sign recognition, a highway driving assistance system, lane-keep assist and lane-departure warnings, a surround-view camera system, and a parking assist system.

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas is on sale now with a starting price of $36,445, including a $1,295 destination charge. The top SEL Premium R-Line starts at $53,635. Upgrading to second-row captain’s chairs costs $695, and Volkswagen offers wheel upgrades for $1,220 and $1,674. Available accessories include a baby mirror, aluminum side steps, a bike rack, and roof rack crossbars.