2024 Volkswagen Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport Freshen Up, Lose Optional V6
Volkswagen came to the Chicago Auto Show this week to introduce the 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport. The Car Guide was on hand at McCormick Place to see from up close how the German automaker’s midsize SUV has changed.
To be clear, this is still the first-generation Atlas that originally debuted in 2018. The refreshed and updated 2024 model looks sharper and gets new features, but more importantly, the 3.6-litre V6 (276 hp, 266 lb-ft. of torque) is no longer part of the lineup.
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The only engine available going forward will be the turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder. Thankfully, output is increased from 235 hp to 269 hp. It’s the same thing with torque, which is now rated at 273 lb-ft. instead of 258 lb-ft.
Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel drive system comes standard along with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite the elimination of the V6, maximum towing capacity is unchanged at 5,000 pounds—good news for families that own a boat or camping trailer. IQ.Drive technology, which combines a host of advanced safety and driver assistance systems, is also included.
Sharper Looks
Outside, the 2024 model year brings a new front end design and greater differentiation between the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport. As you can see on the pictures, a wide four-bar chrome grille is framed by LED headlights with the newly standard Adaptive Front-lighting System. On all but base trims, the daytime running lights wrap around the headlights and continue into an illuminated lightbar that sits atop of an illuminated VW logo.
Atlas Cross Sport models feature gloss-black grille details and a gloss-black “X” design element stretching across the lower fascia, similar to the Taos.
New wheel designs are part of the package, too, ranging from 18-20 inches with machined alloy and black finishes available. R-line trims up the ante with a gloss-black grille, 21-inch wheels and signature R-line badging. At the rear, both the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport get a larger spoiler.
Updated Interior
Volkswagen also made a number of changes to the interior. More premium materials are adopted throughout, including a leatherette-trimmed soft-touch dash and centre console. Front-row door trim is updated, as well, while top-of-the-range models feature diamond-patterned quilted leather seats.
A heated steering wheel with shift paddles, ventilated front seats and a height-adjustable passenger seat are now standard fare, which is great. Ditto for automatic climate control and voice control. A 12-inch floating infotainment display is the focal point in the redesigned cockpit, and drivers of every trim level benefit from a 10.25-inch fully configurable digital instrument panel.
Pricing for the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas will start at an MSRP of $49,995 and the 2024 Atlas Cross Sport will start at $48,895. Units are expected to begin hitting Canadian dealers this summer.