2018 Volkswagen Atlas | CarGurus Test Drive Review

[@Brent-sc6sc]

I consider you one of the best reviewers on the tube. I'm 71 and truly appreciate a mature detailed report, especially when you tell about how it performs while driving in various conditions and the use of different features. I hate the reviewers who joke around and think they're supposed to entertain instead of giving a straightforward review! I downloaded this particular review. I was considering a Toyota Highlander, but now will check out the Atlas in person. Thanks and keep up the superior work!

[@tomcatjeff1985]

I bought VW Atlas exactly a year ago...it's a perfect vehicle for a snowy and slippery road here in Alberta, Canada. The only downside is it's mpg but you can be reciprocated by vehicle's massive passenger space and comfort.

[@hanishs.nadkarni179]

Christian....You are BESTEST ! ! ! ! ....After watching your review, I did purchase the Atlas SEL Premium 4MOTION....Please keep up the good work of enlightening and entertaining us with your reviews in future. I will be eagerly looking forward for more reviews from you. By the way this vehicle is practical and absolute value for money with all the safety features and other goodies it offers I never was a VW person but after your review that perception did change. Thanks to you.

[@ashleyusher28]

I think the cargo space, 3rd row, and the carseats that don't have to come out are my biggest selling point. It's an SUV so I'm not expecting great gas mileage, but I was pleasantly surprised to see that the towing package is standard.. I'm pretty excited to be getting this!

[@SomeplaceintheMiddle2025]

Just bought an Atlas and I love it!!!!

[@TheMikeYouSee]

I'm a big fan of this video format. I liked the hosts inflection and tone and comparison with other vehicles and he delivered the facts and explained why they're facts too. Great for people like me that have no idea what SUV to buy for my small but growing family.

[@drtoddsullivan]

I test drove this along with the Pilot, Sorento, CX-9 and MDX. The Atlas felt underpowered, it feels like it needs another 30hp and the seats where not comfortable at all even in the SEL premium. The infotainment screen was nice but the digital cockpit didn't compare to Audi's version. The pilot and MDX have the 9 speed transmissions which were always gear hunting and jerky. The MDX hybrid has a different transmission which was nice but it was 19k more full equipped and can't tow anything. I ended up getting the Mazda CX-9 signature for the handling, interior, fuel economy and paid 40k. If I was going to spend 50k I would test drive the MDX hybrid if you don't need to tow or spend a little more and get the Audi Q7 or Volvo XC 90. If 30-40k is your budget I would look at Mazda CX 9 or Kia Sorento. Sorento is probably the best value out all mid size SUV as long as you don't need a ton of space for the third row or cargo.

[@swanblake]

Todd Sullivan MDX and cx9 are such great vehicles. It think the Atlas only competes with GM offerings.

[@magnus466]

You are absolutely correct! I compared the same and ended up with a top line Sorento. I get 28-30 mpg on the highway and it's got all sorts of features that are options on the other models with far better pricing. Such and INCREDIBLE value!

[@akshayd82]

Been saying this all the time! I did the same exercise as you did and ended up with the Sorento. Though CX-9 came up short on features and space even compared to the Sorento. The specs sheet tell the story. Since I didn't want to spend more than 40K i got the fully loaded Sorento. If I could spend 50-55K XC90 was my next choice. Q7 third row is tiny BTW ...

[@drtoddsullivan]

akshayd82 great choice I almost went with the Sorento it does have some nice features that's Mazda does not such as Apple CarPlay and ventilated seats. Mazda will be adding Apple CarPlay over the next 6 months and Mazda says you will be able to update older models. The Q7 and Volvo cost close to 65-70k when you have it full equipped as a Sorento limited. Yes they are nicer in some aspects but 30-35k more is a huge jump in price.

[@drophitz]

Todd Sullivan you seem to be a smart buyer I did the same and test drove the infinity SUV pilot. and looked into the x5 and highlander. once I stepped into the I was in wow mode the. test drove it and was sold. but I did as you compared and took my time and I love my choice

[@robertyoung1777]

We have a 2018 SEL premium that we bought new. It has 55k mikes on it. I like the car. This review is accurate based on my experience with the car. Here in Vermont we have five months of winter. With all the extra clothes, boots and stuff that winter driving involves; having big interior space is great. Lots of leg and foot room for boots. Here in Vermont we have five months of winter. With all the extra clothes, boots and stuff that winter driving involves, having big interior space is great. Lots of leg snd foot room for boots. We’ve had a few bugs with the electronics (forward collision warning system failure and occasional drop out from external electronics plugged into the aux input). The auto engine start stop is annoying. I shut it off every time I start the car. Overall I like the car. I think it’s better than a Pilot or Highlander in the SEL Premium trim. We get about 20 mpg average.

[@suwenli7118]

In July 2018, I purchased a VW flagship version of Teramont 530V6 (2.5T) in Shenzhen, China. While I driving to 4000 kilometers, a brake failure was found. At the same time, I found that the engine was seriously leaking oil and EPC light turned on. The whole vehicle suddenly stopped running two times so far, You have to restart before you can drive. The problem has not been completely solved by looking for manufacturers and distributors many times. This problem brings a lot of troubles to my life, and I lose my confidence in Volkswagen. This case can be used for your reference when you want to buy a SAIC Volkswagen.

[@bswell7251]

Have an SEL Premium 4Motion and love it. Roomier than pretty much anything in it's class and the price (and warranty) are right. It's obviously not an Audi Q7 but it's still pretty plush. Downsized from a terrible '15 Yukon XL that grenaded the transmission at 118k miles.

[@caseyn.9416]

We’re also trading our 2015 Yukon XL with around 120k miles in for 2019 Atlas SEL. Glad to see you’re loving yours, coming from the same vehicle we are. Not a fan of the poor quality and reliability of our Yukon, so hoping for better from the VW-a brand that I have been loyal to for years.

[@Boogyman337]

Thanks! I am going to buy one tomorrow. I have a 2016 Ford Explorer with a carbon monoxide leek. Ford said they would fix it. My friend at a different for dealership said they can't always fix it. I asked ford to take it in trade and I would take a new 2017. Ford said no. So I said here is yoiur fkg care and tomorrow i will buy the Atlas. Thanks for the review.

[@ShekharKumarDesi]

How do you like your VW Atlas so far? I'm planning to get one soon.

[@nyqbn]

The extremely loose steering killed it for me you can do a 3 point turn with your pinky.

[@robertsoliz6821]

I had no idea the 4 cylinder turbo engine required premium fuel... That sucks. I was hoping to go for that one to save on the better gas mileage it gets, but not if it costs more per gallon

[@ArseneLupin786]

Saw a few Atlas's on the road. They will age well due to their looks as Chris said and is a welcomed addition. I found it it as a replacement for those who couldn't buy the Tahoe/Yukon or those who didn't want the Durango... Though, as some others said, it is under powered. Wonder how the new Touareg will do in Canada

[@jh5kl]

the safety tests atlas went gave it max scores, was the video recorded long ago? because the tests have been out for a while

[@ianalexander2017]

The design is great

[@aubreyshaw8926]

I'm looking to purchase one soon

[@keytothegate68]

Chris says " I'd buy one.." Then go ahead and do so but how are you going to navigate that 50K price sticker so that you can enjoy all the electronics?

[@mdribblecastle]

You like it better than the Kia Sorrento 2017-18? I guess the bigger size is the big win, but don't think my passengers would care for that head swaying issue in the second row. Seems like a nice car, but my brother is a mechanic and absolutely hates VW's, so don't think I could ever pull the trigger on a VW.

[@mdribblecastle]

Not sure why I can’t see your comment inline. Anyway, I don’t think his dislike is about parts quality, it’s more about the VW designs being overly complex without added benefit (opinion) which in turn makes everything about servicing the cars harder and/or take longer. But if they have such great parts maybe repairs are less frequent.

[@drophitz]

Brent Plummer yeah other reviews said thw suspension is horrible in this vehicle

[@Nahhmah]

I just sat in a Sorrento today, ugh... small cabin and cheapy looking material. I would never buy a Kia.

[@djayt1215]

Good things mechanics aren't engineers.

[@ianalexander2017]

This looks great

[@ianalexander2017]

Looks good

[@Jerictron5000]

It's one of those weird feeling/encounter in life-the car actually looks like or somehow resemble a person, which in this case, it's the host!

[@lightsurfer5721]

What about RELIABILITY

[@djayt1215]

Average for the market. Better than most in the segment

[@shirazpervez2405]

Dude great review but that background music almost made me want to chuck my phone out the window. Horrendous! Play music in your videos but keep it lower so it doesn't stand out so much from the review itself

[@CalebHerscher]

Do your homework before to buy a VW Atlas, I bought the SEL 3.6 premium 4 motion in April 2018. During the 8 days I had this car; it was in service 2 times...so don’t waste your money ....be a smart customer....

[@jonmike316]

What happened?

[@JustAbe1020]

What happened. I’m about to buy one

[@joethebet7177]

This or pilot? Thanks.

[@swanblake]

joe TheBet lower trim Pilot or Highlander

[@joethebet7177]

Blake Swan ExL pilot?

[@PashaDefragzor]

30k LX Pilot and after - upgrade it the way u want, lcd's, computer's. air suspension, other... Everything gonna be about 32-35 k

[@european1114]

VW ATLAS the best!!!! I just bought one. Very happy 😃

[@swanblake]

Zapadna Hercegovina it's the best because you bought one...... original

[@rlarma]

Atlas V6 is on REGULAR gasoline!

[@BTC909]

Add any weight to the V6 and it'll disappoint. The bigger the rims the bigger the rattles. You can only stretch a universal platform (MQB) so far. The 2.0L Turbo in the Tiguan is already considered under-powered. The Americanized suspension setup results in the body roll. Drive this up hills on a regular basis and that MPG will tank even more.

[@mrkyou]

Why bigger rims = bigger rattles? Doesn't jive. Bigger rims should be able to nullify the smaller holes and bumps better due to the larger circumference.

[@BTC909]

You lose the cushion with narrow sidewalls. The tire hits the pot hole, runs up through the sidewalls of the tire to the rim, through the wheel bearing, bushings, tie rods, control arms, the shock, lower coil mount, upper coil mount, through the axle & steering rack & throughout the vehicle. That's the beauty of an isolated subframe. Most of the impact stops at the subframe. Then you can run tires with narrow sidewalls which do aid in handling without the crappy ride.

[@jjimenez8430]

Which do you prefer this or VW Atlas? I'm stuck on these two and not sure which to buy.

[@ThePanamanianMike]

I have a family with toddlers so the size of the vehicle and the ability to not have to take out the car seat to get in the third row is a big deal to me. But I dislike the interior style and can't stand the gas mileage. The fake tail pipe is a disappointment. With that said I'll probably still purchase it.

[@rukia1216]

I need this vehicle. I drive a 2012 Mazda CX-9 and I effin hate it.

[@mikadre12]

rukia1216 I had a 2010 Mazda CX9 and had no issues until my water pump bust at barely 99K miles. Unbeknownst to me the water pump is internal with the engine and immediately destroyed the engine without warning. Now I'm getting an Atlas...

[@rukia1216]

KM Bell we are barely living with my Mazda. The key and keyless entry/start is messed up. It asks for the key when the key is in the car. We are waiting for income tax time to get the Atlas!

[@jaywho476]

Comparing this unibody Atlas to a body on frame Tahoe is apples to oranges. Should be compared to another crossover in Chevy's fleet. All together now: the Traverse. It has more Cargo volume and far superior driving dynamics. Not to mention it's much quicker to 60mph, so I won't. Bad job.

[@keytothegate68]

I really don't know where vw is going with this? The car needs a V-8 as is and they are planning to offer a turbo 4 ? The interior is dominated with hard plastics and it looks like something that could have been released 10- 12 years ago. Adding options will increase the price by 50% and you still end up with the same weak engine. This car just seems like a product that VW had to release but it really shouldn't have

[@leonardc1303]

keytothegate K It was intended to have the diesel and that would have been wonderful with tremendous range on a tank of fuel and lots or torque. But of course the domestic automakers had the EPA write environmental standards designed to keep super efficient European diesels out of the us market place. It’s called weaponizing an administrative agency. Crony capitalism etc. Amazing how many American morons will say VW got caught cheating. The truth is the American consumer got screwed. And the US automakers used environmental regulations to do it.

[@MrJhynx]

What kind of Warranty does VW offer on this vehicle?

[@robertwilkins8905]

6 years or 72,000 miles

[@itsintheword230]

No captain seats???? That's not good

[@2004cyrus]

If it's in the Word Then it's in the word they have captains seats available

[@tc1uscg65]

Not sure I'd say it's "Huge" since I still have a minivan (Chrysler) in my drive, it's roomy. So was the VW Passat TDi SEL P (2013) I owned (before selling it back to VW). But it is roomy. I just ordered my SEL Premium last night (they didn't have the wheels/trim/color combo at the dealer. I would have not taken the Nav system (but wanted the fender sound system) since the nav system at was in the Passat was a running joke, that it would tell you turn after you PASSED your turn and it never took me the same way from the same point to point directions everytime. Guess it went by the old VW saying "No particular place to go". kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZu2e3uMZ7eZh7c Nice video. Nice to watch something to JUSTIFY that $50k I just paid LOL. To address some of the "stop and restart manually" issues (and dead battery), I was informed the battery issue has been corrected and software updates for the start/stop feature have been "tweaked". I would hope the later 2019 models have been "fixed". But not info on the ghost stops in the middle of know where with no other cars around. My guess is, it's just like my 2011 Town and Country. Driving down the road, not a cloud in the sky, the wiper(s) will make a pass or two as if it detects rain (which it has a rain sensor). I think I'm hitting a bug just right and it makes the wipers activate. I'm starting to wonder with the stopping reporting if that's whats happening to the VW. They are TOO sensitive.

[@keytothegate68]

Do people really pay 50K for this?

[@FreakOfMeds]

Sorry but do you see a competition that is cheaper in this category that is fully loaded? This is the highest trim it comes in. The lowest trim is ~31k

[@ATARI800XLfan]

This SUV needs a diesel option

[@lightsurfer5721]

Future MONEY PIT

[@pablojose4890]

I once owned a Jetta with a crap Audi 1.8t engine. A $20,000 car I spent $12,000 repairing. How about a $2500 clutch? German engineering. When VW messed with the diesel mpg, the US government should have kicked them out of the country. How is the coefficient to drag on a box of ugly somehow more aerodynamic than a more streamlined and beautiful car? Who's going to confirm it? Nobody.

[@isaiahmoreno9421]

It's beautiful, but the navigation system still looks outdated.

[@classicjag76]

bold styling? bland styling. It looks like a Cherokee. We miss the old VW.

[@Technical_Audio]

VW has a dismal reputation for reliability. Honda and Toyota are the reliability leaders. Reliability is terribly important and too often overlooked in reviews because it is hard to assess during the short review period. I would buy the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander instead.

[@ggolds5]

I agree with you completely. However, even after having read Consumer Reports literally my whole life, I still ended up buying 3 land Rover's knowing full well they were horribly unreliable. The last one I had was the worst one of all. I just liked the vehicle too much, and took the risk. I agree VW has a dismal history with reliability overall. Not all of them, but quite a few models and years. That said, The Honda, Toyota, Mazda, Kia, etc. Are likely more reliable. However, me being me, I just think this thing is very cool, and always liked VW's, so , common sense aside, I might just end up with a VW. Stupid me, sometimes you can't put sense to desire. I would say the girlfriends and wives have a similar thread in life. This time around I chose the "Honda". With the flare of the Range Rover. Sometimes you can get both, just look a lot harder and longer.

[@spirosz3693]

Spacecoastsun Mazda CX9 Is the way to go

[@FreakOfMeds]

Luckily it comes with 72000 / 6 year warranty

[@kwxj61b]

cx9 can go play on their own with their 4cyl.

[@djayt1215]

Correction. VW is average in the market. Toyota and GM are the leaders

[@DrumNut927]

a turbo 4 on a vehicle that large? No thank you.

[@waynerice4918]

Too bad it's not reliable!

[@njdoughboy]

Yada yada. Is VW a company anyone wants to do business with? Count your fingers after you shake hands.

[@jh5kl]

why? since when did volkswagen became an american or middle eastern company?

[@njdoughboy]

jh5kl guess you don't read the news and never heard of Dieselgate? Or defective transmission recalls in China? Etc etc

[@jh5kl]

i do, i just do not only read the ones that pretend that foreign companies and countries are horrible, while they pretend that worse things national companies do are ok and we should not talk about. you could then know that emission cheat devices scandals are unfortunely common through the industry History, ford already had at least three massive scandals with emissions but no one talks about it (and intentionally selling cars with fatal flaws more than once, but it doesn t matter right? cause it was not volkswagen) btw, do you know that there are some ford models simply catching fire even having governments looking into it and even threatening recalls? bt it doesn t matter, cause its not volkswagen

[@njdoughboy]

jh5kl well all I know is that VW gambled with their own customers money (diesels not legal to be registered) and has often blamed customers for their own defective products. They care only about sales figures and are an inherently unethical company. And your argument that Ford did it so it's ok if VW did it needs no response. Let the market decide.

[@jh5kl]

ah, dodging bigger issues with other companies, i m not surprised. but you know what? you re right, volkswagen is doing it wrong, ford did the right thing, when you make a flaw make it fatal so there are less complaints, either being exploding tyres or ford pintos.

[@RBBBBBBBBB533]

The interior looks cheap.

[@swanblake]

Bloated, numb, and slow. The perfect American vehicle. Definitely not German any more. This was made to sell by the foot for dumb US buyer. Size and no substance.

[@swanblake]

Matt McPherson Thank you! Hope your day gets better friend!