One of the biggest mid-size crossovers on the market is about to receive a facelift, according to many reports. After the launch of a coupe-like Cross Sport, it is time for the standard version to receive some updates. This model was launched a couple of years ago and it already makes some pretty decent sales numbers. Still, a major carmaker like VW definitely wants more, so we count on 2021 VW Atlas changes that will draw much more attention from potential buyers.
At this point, the exact details are still unknown, despite that rendering photos already appeared on the internet. Still, we may presume that the focus will be on the styling, though interior changes are possible as well. On the other side, we don’t expect to see bigger changes under the hood. Considering the update, the new model could arrive a little bit earlier than usual, but still within the last quarter of the year.
2021 VW Atlas Changes
styling. It’s not hard to presume that these updates will be quite mild, in a typical manner of VW vehicles. We presume that the new model will come with a refreshed face, which should be pretty much the same as on the 2021 VW Atlas Cross Sport. This coupe crossover was presented recently and besides different rear end, it also features a little bit more modern face, compared to the standard Atlas model.
Therefore, we may presume that this update will bring the same face, which includes a little bit tweaked grille and bumper, LED lighting etc. The rest of the vehicle is expected to carry on in the same way, though we could see new colors, wheels and other typical updates.
Interior
This VW Atlas facelift 2021 could also bring some interesting changes on the inside. Although super-practical, the current model doesn’t feature too attractive cabin. Most rivals feel more upscale on the inside, as there is a lot of hard-plastics surfaces on the dashboard and around the cabin.
On the other side, there is nothing to complain about the model’s interior space and cargo capacity. AS the wheelbase goes way over 120 inches, you may presume that there are three quite spacious rows of seats. Even the third row is pretty generous in terms of the legroom, so even adult passengers can feel comfortable here. When it comes to the cargo volume, you may count on almost 21 cubic feet behind the third row, while the overall capacity goes all-away up to 97 cubic feet. These numbers sound respectable even for the class of full-size SUVs.
2021 VW Atlas Engines
We don’t expect to see bigger changes under the hood. The 2021 VW Atlas will continue with two familiar units, which are typical for the company’s familiar MQB platform. Base models will carry on with a 2.0-liter turbo-four, which features a max output of 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This engine seems okay for a daily ride but definitely won’t provide you with spectacular driving dynamics. On the other side, fuel economy is quite decent, as it returns around 22 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Those who look for something peppier can opt for a 3.6-liter V6. This engine is good for about 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. These are quite typical numbers for the class and you may count on notably better dynamics compared to the base turbo-four engine. On the other side, this engine is much thirstier, as it returns around 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. These aren’t great numbers for the class.
Features
Novelties in this aspect are always expected and always more than welcome. Still, keep in mind that the current model already comes with a decent amount of standard equipment, so we probably won’t see too many additions to the list of standard equipment. Base models already come with things like a 6.5-inch touch screen, Mirror Link, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a six-speaker stereo, Bluetooth, and a USB port. In higher trims, you can also get things like an 8-inch touch screen, navigation, Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, HD Radio, satellite radio, a 12-speaker Fender premium stereo, more USB ports etc.
A couple of novelties are also possible in terms of safety, though the current model is already quite decent in this aspect. It comes standard with things like a post-collision braking system, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a rearview camera, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection.
2021 VW Atlas Release Date and Price
Considering all the changes that are about to come with this update, the 2021 VW Atlas release date might be scheduled for a little bit earlier date than usual. When it comes to the price, we don’t expect to see bigger changes compared to the current model, which starts at around 32.000 dollars. Key competitors are models like Chevy Traverse, Hyundai Palisade, Honda Pilot etc.