Mazda CX-9 vs Volkswagen Atlas

Launched for the 2018 model year, the Volkswagen Atlas is engineered specifically for the United States market. It's a three-row midsize crossover SUV, big for a VW, but targeting a popular market segment that already includes the Chevrolet Traverse, Ford Explorer, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Nissan Pathfinder, Subaru Ascent, and Toyota Highlander. To keep up in such a competitive segment, the Atlas gets a major refresh for the 2024 model year.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas is essentially the same vehicle as before, but it gets key updates like different styling and more standard features. It also loses its six-cylinder engine option, but the remaining turbocharged four-cylinder engine gets more horsepower and torque.

The 2024 Atlas lineup includes SE, SE with Technology, SEL, and SEL Premium R-Line trim levels, plus a new-for-2024 Peak Edition treatment available on the SE with Technology and SEL trim levels. For this review, we tested an Atlas SEL Premium R-Line, representing the top of the range.