2022 VW Atlas Review: Is It The Right SUV For You?

by Jhon Lennon 51 views

Hey guys! Thinking about getting a new SUV? Let's dive into the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas and see if it’s the right fit for you and your family. We'll cover everything from performance and comfort to tech and safety, so you can make an informed decision.

Overview of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas is a mid-size SUV that offers three rows of seating, making it a great choice for larger families or anyone who needs extra space for passengers or cargo. It's known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and user-friendly technology. But how does it really stack up in a competitive market? Let's get into the nitty-gritty.

What's New for 2022?

For the 2022 model year, Volkswagen has made a few tweaks and improvements to the Atlas. One notable change is the addition of more standard features across the trim levels. You now get more bang for your buck with enhanced driver-assistance features and interior comforts right from the base model. Additionally, there have been some minor styling updates to keep the Atlas looking fresh and modern. These updates aim to enhance the overall appeal and value of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas, making it an even more compelling option in the crowded mid-size SUV segment.

Trim Levels

The 2022 Atlas is available in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and options. Here’s a quick rundown:

  • SE: The base model, which still comes well-equipped with essential features.
  • SE with Technology: Adds more advanced tech features and driver-assistance systems.
  • SEL: Steps up the luxury with premium features and enhanced styling.
  • SEL R-Line: A sporty appearance package with unique interior and exterior accents.
  • SEL Premium: The top-of-the-line trim, offering the ultimate in comfort and convenience.

Each trim level caters to different needs and preferences, so it’s worth exploring the options to find the perfect fit for you. Whether you prioritize affordability, advanced technology, or luxurious amenities, there's likely an Atlas trim that will meet your requirements. For example, the SE trim is ideal for those who need a reliable and spacious SUV without breaking the bank, while the SEL Premium is perfect for those who want all the bells and whistles. Understanding the nuances of each trim level is crucial in making an informed decision.

Performance and Engine Options

Let's talk about what's under the hood. The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offers two engine options:

  • 2.0-liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: This engine produces 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It’s a solid choice for everyday driving and offers decent fuel economy.
  • 3.6-liter V6: This engine cranks out 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. If you need more power for towing or hauling, this is the way to go.

Driving Experience

The driving experience in the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas is generally smooth and comfortable. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, making it suitable for long road trips. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic. However, some drivers might find the handling a bit soft, especially compared to sportier SUVs. Overall, the Atlas prioritizes comfort and ease of driving over sporty performance.

Both engine options provide adequate power for most driving situations. The turbocharged four-cylinder is surprisingly peppy and offers good fuel economy, making it a practical choice for daily commuting. The V6, on the other hand, delivers more robust acceleration and towing capability, making it ideal for families who frequently tow trailers or boats. The Atlas also offers available all-wheel drive, which enhances traction and stability in inclement weather conditions. This makes the Atlas a versatile and capable SUV for a wide range of driving needs.

Interior Comfort and Technology

One of the standout features of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas is its spacious and comfortable interior. There's plenty of room for passengers in all three rows, making it a great choice for families with kids or adults who need to ride in the back. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, ensuring a comfortable ride even on long journeys. The interior design is clean and functional, with high-quality materials used throughout.

Infotainment System

The Atlas comes standard with a user-friendly infotainment system that includes a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system is easy to navigate and responds quickly to inputs. Higher trim levels offer additional features such as a larger display, navigation, and a premium audio system. The infotainment system is a central hub for controlling various vehicle functions, including audio, climate control, and smartphone integration. The intuitive interface and responsive touch screen make it easy to use, even while driving.

Other Interior Features

Other notable interior features include:

  • Tri-zone automatic climate control
  • Available panoramic sunroof
  • Available leather upholstery
  • Ample cargo space, even with all three rows in use

These features enhance the overall comfort and convenience of the Atlas, making it a pleasant place to spend time. The tri-zone climate control allows passengers in different rows to customize their temperature settings, while the panoramic sunroof provides a bright and airy cabin. The available leather upholstery adds a touch of luxury, and the ample cargo space ensures that you can bring everything you need on your journeys. These details contribute to the Atlas's reputation as a family-friendly and comfortable SUV.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for most car buyers, and the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas doesn't disappoint. It comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including:

  • Forward collision warning
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Rear cross-traffic alert

Higher trim levels offer even more advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and park assist. These features work together to help prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe on the road. The Atlas has also performed well in crash tests, earning high ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The comprehensive suite of safety features and strong crash-test ratings make the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas a safe and reliable choice for families. The forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking can help prevent or mitigate frontal collisions, while the blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert can help you avoid accidents when changing lanes or backing up. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist can make long highway drives less stressful by maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles and keeping you centered in your lane. These features provide peace of mind and enhance the overall safety of the Atlas.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is an important consideration for many buyers, especially with rising gas prices. The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offers decent fuel economy for its class, but it's not the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market. The EPA estimates for the four-cylinder engine are around 21 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. The V6 engine gets slightly lower numbers, at around 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. Your actual fuel economy may vary depending on your driving habits and conditions.

While the Atlas's fuel economy is not exceptional, it is competitive with other mid-size SUVs in its class. The four-cylinder engine offers a good balance of power and efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily commuting and errands. The V6 engine provides more power for towing and hauling, but it comes at the expense of slightly lower fuel economy. If fuel economy is a top priority for you, you may want to consider a hybrid or electric SUV. However, if you need the space and versatility of a three-row SUV, the Atlas is a reasonable choice in terms of fuel efficiency.

Pricing and Value

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas is priced competitively within the mid-size SUV segment. The base model starts at around $34,000, while the top-of-the-line trim can reach upwards of $50,000. The overall value of the Atlas depends on your needs and priorities. If you're looking for a spacious and comfortable SUV with a good reputation for reliability, the Atlas is definitely worth considering. However, if you're looking for the most fuel-efficient or sporty SUV in its class, you may want to explore other options.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offers a compelling combination of space, comfort, technology, and safety, making it a strong contender in the mid-size SUV market. Its competitive pricing and available features make it a good value for families who need a versatile and reliable vehicle. While it may not be the most exciting or fuel-efficient SUV on the market, it excels in providing a comfortable and practical driving experience for both drivers and passengers. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not the Atlas is the right SUV for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, here’s a quick look at the pros and cons of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas:

Pros:

  • Spacious interior with ample room for passengers and cargo
  • Comfortable ride quality
  • User-friendly technology
  • Available advanced safety features

Cons:

  • Fuel economy could be better
  • Handling is not as sporty as some competitors

Final Verdict

So, is the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas the right SUV for you? If you need a spacious, comfortable, and safe SUV for your family, it’s definitely worth a look. While it may not be the most exciting or fuel-efficient option, it offers a well-rounded package that should appeal to a wide range of buyers. Happy car shopping, folks!