2019-2021 Volkswagen Atlas 4motion 3.6L

Overview

The Volkswagen Atlas represents a strategic entry into the North American mid-size three-row SUV segment. Developed specifically to address the demand for spacious, family-oriented vehicles in the United States, the Atlas is built upon the modular MQB platform. Its design prioritizes interior volume and accessibility, offering a third row capable of accommodating adults, which distinguishes it from many competitors in its class. Manufactured at the Volkswagen Chattanooga Assembly Plant in Tennessee, the vehicle reflects a localized approach to engineering and production.

The 3.6-liter VR6 engine serves as the primary powerplant for the 4motion all-wheel-drive variants. This narrow-angle V6 configuration is a hallmark of Volkswagen engineering, providing a balance of power and refinement suited for the vehicle’s substantial curb weight. The 4motion system utilizes an electro-hydraulic clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction in adverse weather conditions. Throughout its production run from 2019 to 2021, the Atlas maintained a reputation for utilitarian design, emphasizing clean lines and a boxy silhouette that maximizes cargo utility.

Marketed as a direct competitor to established domestic and Japanese SUVs, the Atlas occupies a space between mainstream and premium offerings. Its interior layout focuses on ergonomic simplicity and connectivity, featuring a digital-forward interface that evolved during its initial model years. By prioritizing passenger comfort and towing capability, the Atlas secured a consistent position within the Volkswagen lineup, serving as a primary driver for the brand’s growth in the North American SUV market.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volkswagen
Model	Atlas 4motion
Model Year	2019-2021
Generation	1st Generation
Trim	SE, SEL, SEL Premium
Body Style	4-Door SUV
Vehicle Segment	Mid-size SUV
Vehicle Class	Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
Market	USA
Platform	MQB
Assembly Plant	Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA
Country of Origin	USA
Production Start	2017
Production End	–
VIN Identifier	1VW
Base MSRP	$34,000 (approx)
Destination Charge	$1,020
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 502 00 / 5W-40
Horsepower	276 hp @ 6,200 rpm
Torque	266 lb-ft @ 2,750 rpm
Redline	6,500 rpm
Drivetrain	All-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	16
EPA Highway MPG	22
EPA Combined MPG	18
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	13.1
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	18.6
Estimated Driving Range	335 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$2,600
CO₂ Emissions	480 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	3
Smog Rating	5
Performance
0-30 mph	2.8 s
0-60 mph	7.9 s
0-100 mph	22.5 s
Quarter Mile	16.1 s
Top Speed	115 mph (governed)
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	128 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.79 g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	0.12 hp/lb
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)	4,500
GVWR (lbs)	6,000
Towing Capacity (lbs)	5,000
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1,300
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°
Departure Angle	22.3°
Breakover Angle	17.5°
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	8.0-inch touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Digital Cockpit (Optional)
Apple CarPlay	Standard
Android Auto	Standard
Navigation System	Available
Audio System	Fender Premium
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	1st: 4.92, 2nd: 2.84, 3rd: 1.84, 4th: 1.26, 5th: 1.00, 6th: 0.83, 7th: 0.65, 8th: 0.54
Differential Type	Open with Electronic Differential Lock
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 4motion is widely regarded for its exceptional interior packaging and family-friendly ergonomics, making it a strong contender in the used SUV market. Reliability for the 3.6L VR6 powertrain is generally considered solid, though owners should monitor the water pump and thermostat housing for potential leaks, as these are known service points. Electrical gremlins related to the infotainment system and sensor calibration can occur, so a thorough pre-purchase inspection of the electronics is advised. While the fuel economy is modest compared to turbocharged four-cylinder rivals, the naturally aspirated V6 offers a linear power delivery that many drivers prefer for towing and highway cruising. Overall, the Atlas remains a practical, comfortable choice for buyers prioritizing cabin space and build quality over class-leading fuel efficiency.