After long waits, Volkswagen has finally decided to lift the veil on its new SUV named Atlas. Presenting itself as a big brother to the Touareg, this one is distinguished above all by its massive style with a cabin large enough to accommodate up to seven people.
A classic design, but with a massive style
With the Atlas, the Wolfsburg company does not want to break away from the visual identity of its other models and therefore offers a rather classic design. Indeed, this new vehicle is largely inspired by the Cross Blue concept unveiled by the German brand in 2013. It has the same body lines and massive styling with dimensions (5.03 × 1.97 × 1.76 meters) that are slightly larger than those of the Touareg. As for the interior, it will also have the same design as the other Volkswagen models, especially the Passat, with which the Atlas will share the Chattanooga plant in the United States.
A largely satisfactory power
Volkswagen is known for the exceptional power of its vehicles and this is confirmed again with the Atlas. For the engine, the German firm gives users the choice between a 2L TSI four-cylinder with 238 hp and a 3.6L VR6 with 280 hp, both associated with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Unfortunately, both engines are gasoline-powered and there is no plug-in hybrid architecture as was the case last year. A decision that could be linked to the scandal of rigged diesels that have marked the automotive news recently.
An SUV for the American market
The official announcement of the new Volkswagen Atlas was made in Santa Monica, California. A way for the manufacturer to tell us that it will be reserved for the American market. Indeed, it is very unlikely that this new model will land in Europe, except of course for Russia which will welcome it on its soil for the end of 2017. The Atlas will also arrive in Asia at the same time, however its U.S. launch is scheduled for Spring 2017. For the moment, we are still waiting for its presentation at the Los Angeles Auto Show next November.
