Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas, and let me tell you, there's a lot to unpack. If you're in the market for a family-friendly SUV that doesn't skimp on style or space, the Atlas might just be your perfect match. This review will cover everything you need to know, from performance and fuel economy to interior comfort and tech features. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas is a mid-size SUV designed with families in mind. It offers a spacious interior, comfortable ride, and a range of features that make it a strong contender in its class. With its three rows of seating, it can comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers, making it ideal for larger families or those who frequently carpool. The Atlas also boasts a respectable amount of cargo space, ensuring you can haul groceries, sports equipment, or luggage with ease. Available in several trim levels, the 2022 Atlas caters to a variety of budgets and preferences, offering a blend of value and premium features.

Volkswagen has made several updates to the 2022 model year, enhancing its appeal. The Atlas now comes standard with more advanced safety features, providing added peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike. The interior has also been refined, with improved materials and a more modern design. These enhancements, combined with the Atlas's already impressive list of features, make it an even more compelling choice for SUV shoppers. Whether you're looking for a reliable daily driver or a comfortable road trip vehicle, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas is worth considering. Its combination of space, features, and value make it a standout in the competitive mid-size SUV market. Plus, with Volkswagen's reputation for quality and reliability, you can trust that the Atlas will provide years of dependable service.

Performance and Engine Options

Let's talk about what's under the hood. The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offers two engine options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a 3.6-liter V6. The 2.0-liter turbo engine delivers a respectable 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, providing sufficient power for most driving situations. It's a great choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance. The engine is responsive and offers plenty of low-end torque, making it suitable for city driving and highway cruising. The turbocharged engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and seamless shifts. This combination results in a refined driving experience that is both enjoyable and efficient.

For those who crave more power, the 3.6-liter V6 engine is the way to go. This engine cranks out 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, offering noticeably more muscle for towing and hauling. If you frequently tow trailers or boats, or if you simply prefer a more robust engine, the V6 is an excellent choice. Like the turbo engine, the V6 is also paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is well-matched to the engine's power output, providing quick and precise shifts. The V6 engine delivers strong acceleration and confident performance, making it a pleasure to drive in all conditions. Whether you're navigating city streets or tackling challenging terrain, the V6 engine has the power to get the job done.

Both engines offer a smooth and comfortable ride, thanks to the Atlas's well-tuned suspension. The Atlas handles bumps and imperfections in the road with ease, providing a pleasant driving experience for both driver and passengers. The steering is also precise and responsive, giving you confidence behind the wheel. Whether you choose the 2.0-liter turbo or the 3.6-liter V6, you can expect a refined and enjoyable driving experience in the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. The choice ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and driving needs. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, the turbo engine is a great choice. If you need more power for towing or hauling, the V6 is the way to go.

Fuel Economy

Now, let's be real, fuel economy is a big deal. The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas doesn't exactly top the charts in this category, but it's also not the worst offender. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine offers the best fuel economy, with EPA estimates of around 21 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. These numbers are respectable for a mid-size SUV, and they should be sufficient for most drivers. However, keep in mind that actual fuel economy may vary depending on your driving habits and road conditions. If you do a lot of city driving or have a heavy foot, you may see lower numbers.

The 3.6-liter V6 engine, as expected, delivers lower fuel economy. EPA estimates for the V6 are around 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. While these numbers are lower than the turbo engine, they are still competitive with other V6-powered SUVs in this class. If you need the extra power of the V6 for towing or hauling, the trade-off in fuel economy may be worth it. However, if fuel economy is a top priority, the turbo engine is the better choice.

It's also worth noting that the Atlas comes with an Eco mode, which can help improve fuel economy by optimizing engine and transmission performance. When engaged, Eco mode reduces throttle response and shifts gears earlier, resulting in lower fuel consumption. While Eco mode may slightly reduce performance, it can be a useful tool for maximizing fuel economy on long highway drives. Overall, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offers decent fuel economy for its class, but it's not a standout in this area. If fuel economy is a major concern, be sure to compare the Atlas with other SUVs in its class to see how it stacks up.

Interior and Comfort

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas truly shines when it comes to interior space and comfort. The three rows of seating offer ample room for passengers, even in the third row. This is a major selling point for families who need to transport multiple kids or adults. The second-row seats can slide and recline, allowing passengers to customize their seating position for maximum comfort. The third-row seats are also relatively easy to access, thanks to the wide door openings and the sliding second-row seats. Even taller adults will find the third row to be surprisingly comfortable, with adequate headroom and legroom.

The Atlas also boasts a generous amount of cargo space. With all three rows of seats in place, there's still enough room for groceries or a few suitcases. When you fold down the third-row seats, the cargo area expands significantly, providing ample space for larger items. And when you fold down both the second and third-row seats, the Atlas offers a cavernous cargo area that rivals some minivans. Whether you're hauling camping gear, sports equipment, or furniture, the Atlas has the space to accommodate your needs.

In addition to its spaciousness, the Atlas also offers a comfortable and well-appointed interior. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives. The materials are of good quality, and the overall design is modern and stylish. The Atlas also comes with a range of available features that enhance comfort and convenience, such as heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system. These features can make a big difference in your overall driving experience, especially on long road trips. Overall, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offers a spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped interior that is sure to please families and individuals alike. Its combination of passenger and cargo space, along with its comfortable and stylish design, make it a standout in the mid-size SUV class.

Technology and Features

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas is packed with tech! The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a responsive touchscreen display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, so you can easily connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. The Atlas also offers a range of available features, such as a premium audio system, a navigation system, and a wireless charging pad. These features can enhance your driving experience and keep you connected on the go.

The Atlas also comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. These features can help prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe. Available safety features include lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and park assist. These features can provide added peace of mind and make driving easier and more enjoyable.

Overall, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offers a comprehensive suite of technology features that enhance both convenience and safety. Its user-friendly infotainment system, smartphone integration, and advanced safety features make it a great choice for tech-savvy drivers. Whether you're looking for a connected driving experience or added peace of mind, the Atlas has you covered. The combination of technology and features, along with its spacious interior and comfortable ride, make the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas a standout in the mid-size SUV class.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas is available in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and equipment. The base trim is the SE, which comes standard with features such as a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a suite of advanced safety features. Moving up to the SE with Technology trim adds features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a power liftgate. The SEL trim adds luxury features such as leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system.

The top-of-the-line trim is the SEL Premium, which comes standard with all of the available features, including heated and ventilated seats, a park assist system, and a surround-view camera. The price of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas varies depending on the trim level and the options you choose. The base SE trim starts at around $34,000, while the top-of-the-line SEL Premium trim can cost upwards of $50,000. It's important to research the different trim levels and options to find the one that best fits your needs and budget.

Overall, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offers a range of trim levels and pricing options to suit a variety of buyers. Whether you're looking for a basic family SUV or a fully-loaded luxury vehicle, there's an Atlas trim that's right for you. The combination of value, features, and space make the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas a compelling choice in the mid-size SUV market. Be sure to compare the different trim levels and options to find the perfect Atlas for your needs.

Conclusion

So, what's the verdict? The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas is a solid choice for families needing space and comfort. While it might not be the flashiest or most fuel-efficient SUV out there, it gets the job done and offers a lot of value for the price. If you're looking for a reliable and spacious SUV, the Atlas is definitely worth a look. Just be sure to weigh your priorities and consider which engine and trim level best suit your needs. Happy car hunting!