2018-2023 Volkswagen Atlas 3.6L

Overview

The Volkswagen Atlas represents the manufacturer’s primary entry into the mid-size three-row SUV segment specifically engineered for the North American market. Introduced for the 2018 model year, the vehicle was developed to address consumer demand for a spacious, family-oriented SUV with a footprint larger than the Tiguan. Built on the modular MQB platform, the Atlas prioritizes interior volume and accessibility, featuring a design language characterized by upright proportions, squared-off wheel arches, and a utilitarian aesthetic that aligns with traditional SUV expectations in the United States.

Manufacturing of the Atlas takes place at the Volkswagen Chattanooga Assembly Plant in Tennessee, highlighting the company’s commitment to localized production. The vehicle offers a choice between a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and the 3.6-liter VR6 engine, the latter serving as the premium powertrain option for the 2018–2023 model years. Throughout its production cycle, the Atlas has been recognized for its generous third-row legroom and cargo capacity, positioning it as a direct competitor to established domestic and Japanese rivals. While it underwent a mid-cycle styling update in 2021, the core mechanical architecture remained consistent, maintaining its reputation as a stable, high-capacity hauler for suburban demographics.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volkswagen
Model	Atlas
Model Year	2018-2023
Generation	1st Generation
Trim	S, SE, SEL, SEL Premium
Body Style	4-door SUV
Vehicle Segment	Mid-size SUV
Vehicle Class	Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
Market	USA
Platform	MQB
Assembly Plant	Chattanooga, Tennessee
Country of Origin	USA
Production Start	2017
Production End	–
VIN Identifier	1VW
Base MSRP	$30,895 (2018 base)
Destination Charge	$1,295
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	VR6
Engine Name	EA390
Engine Code	CDVC
Engine Configuration	V6 (Narrow-angle)
Displacement	3.6 Liters
Bore x Stroke	89.0 mm x 96.4 mm
Compression Ratio	11.4:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Direct Injection
Valve Train	DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	6.0 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	VW 508 00 / 0W-20
Horsepower	276 hp @ 6,200 rpm
Torque	266 lb-ft @ 2,750 rpm
Redline	6,500 rpm
Drivetrain	Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (S8)
Final Drive Ratio	3.60:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	18
EPA Highway MPG	24
EPA Combined MPG	20
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	11.8
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	18.6
Estimated Driving Range	400 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$2,500
CO₂ Emissions	440 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	4
Smog Rating	5
Performance
0-30 mph	2.8 seconds
0-60 mph	7.7 seconds
0-100 mph	21.5 seconds
Quarter Mile	15.9 seconds
Top Speed	115 mph (governed)
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	128 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.79g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	15.5 lb/hp
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	198.3
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	78.3
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	87.1
Height (in)	69.6
Wheelbase (in)	117.3
Front Track (in)	67.2
Rear Track (in)	67.8
Ground Clearance (in)	8.0
Curb Weight (lbs)	4,250
GVWR (lbs)	5,800
Towing Capacity (lbs)	5,000
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1,200
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	153.7
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	20.6
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	96.8
Turning Circle	38.0 ft
Approach Angle	20.4 degrees
Departure Angle	22.3 degrees
Breakover Angle	17.5 degrees
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	5 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash	4 Stars
NHTSA Side Crash	5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover	4 Stars
IIHS Award	Top Safety Pick
Small Overlap Front	Good
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	Acceptable
Front Crash Prevention	Superior
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	6.5 to 8.0-inch touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Analog or Digital Cockpit
Apple CarPlay	Standard
Android Auto	Standard
Navigation System	Available
Audio System	Fender Premium Audio
Speaker Count	12
Wireless Charging	Available
Wi-Fi Hotspot	Available
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	7 years / 100,000 miles
Roadside Assistance	3 years / 36,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance	2 years / 20,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Salzgitter, Germany
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	10.5 Quarts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	165
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The Volkswagen Atlas is widely regarded for its exceptional interior packaging, offering one of the most usable third rows in its class, which makes it a frequent choice for families prioritizing space over off-road capability. Reliability for the 3.6-liter VR6 models is generally considered solid, though owners should monitor for potential electrical gremlins related to the infotainment system and occasional issues with the panoramic sunroof drainage channels. In the used market, the Atlas maintains steady value due to its high demand as a practical daily driver. Prospective buyers should prioritize models with documented service histories, specifically verifying that the transmission fluid and engine oil have been changed at recommended intervals, as the Aisin-sourced automatic transmission benefits significantly from consistent maintenance to ensure longevity.