2024-2026 Volkswagen Atlas SEL 4motion 2.0L

Overview

The Volkswagen Atlas represents the brand’s primary entry into the mid-size three-row crossover segment in the North American market. Developed specifically to address the requirements of American families, the vehicle is built on the modular MQB platform. Since its introduction, the Atlas has been manufactured at the Volkswagen Chattanooga Assembly Plant in Tennessee, highlighting the company’s commitment to localized production for the US market.

The SEL 4Motion trim occupies a mid-to-high position within the model hierarchy, balancing premium interior features with the utility of Volkswagen’s all-wheel-drive system. Following a significant refresh for the 2024 model year, the Atlas received updated exterior styling, a refined interior cabin with higher-quality materials, and a standardized 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This powertrain transition replaced the previous VR6 option, focusing on improved efficiency while maintaining competitive torque figures for daily driving and light towing duties.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volkswagen
Model	Atlas SEL 4motion
Model Year	2024-2026
Generation	1st Gen (Facelift)
Trim	SEL
Body Style	4-Door SUV
Vehicle Segment	Mid-size Crossover
Vehicle Class	Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
Market	USA
Platform	MQB
Assembly Plant	Chattanooga, Tennessee
Country of Origin	USA
Production Start	2023
Production End	–
VIN Identifier	1VW
Base MSRP	$50,000+
Destination Charge	$1,425
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	EA888 Gen 4
Engine Name	2.0L TSI
Engine Code	–
Engine Configuration	Inline-4
Displacement	2.0 Liters
Bore x Stroke	82.5 mm x 92.8 mm
Compression Ratio	9.6:1
Aspiration	Turbocharged
Fuel Delivery	Direct Injection
Valve Train	DOHC 16-valve
Engine Block Material	Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	6.0 qt
Oil Specification / Viscosity	VW 508 00 / 0W-20
Horsepower	269 hp
Torque	273 lb-ft
Redline	6,500 rpm
Drivetrain	All-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (S8)
Final Drive Ratio	–
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	19
EPA Highway MPG	25
EPA Combined MPG	21
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	11.2
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	18.6
Estimated Driving Range	400 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$2,500
CO₂ Emissions	420 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	4
Smog Rating	5
Performance
0-30 mph	–
0-60 mph	7.5 seconds
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	–
Top Speed	115 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	128 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.80g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	–
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	200.7
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	78.3
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	86.0
Height (in)	70.4
Wheelbase (in)	117.3
Front Track (in)	67.2
Rear Track (in)	67.5
Ground Clearance (in)	8.0
Curb Weight (lbs)	4,500
GVWR (lbs)	6,000
Towing Capacity (lbs)	5,000
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1,200
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	154
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	20.6
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	96.8
Turning Circle	38.0 ft
Approach Angle	17.5 degrees
Departure Angle	22.0 degrees
Breakover Angle	16.5 degrees
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	5 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash	5 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	Good
Front Crash Prevention	Superior
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	12.0-inch Touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro
Apple CarPlay	Wireless
Android Auto	Wireless
Navigation System	Standard
Audio System	Harman Kardon
Speaker Count	12
Wireless Charging	Standard
Wi-Fi Hotspot	Standard
OTA Updates	Yes
Digital Key	–
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	Silao, Mexico
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Open with Electronic Torque Vectoring
Cooling System Capacity	–
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	165
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The Volkswagen Atlas SEL 4Motion is widely regarded for its exceptional interior packaging, offering one of the most spacious third rows in the mid-size SUV class. Owners generally appreciate the intuitive digital interface and the refined ride quality provided by the MQB architecture. While the transition to the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine has improved fuel efficiency, some users note a slight reduction in the linear power delivery compared to the previous six-cylinder engine. Reliability has been generally stable, though prospective buyers should monitor the infotainment system for software glitches and ensure the panoramic sunroof drains are kept clear to prevent water intrusion. In the used market, the Atlas maintains solid appeal for families prioritizing safety and cargo versatility, though it faces stiff competition from established rivals that often offer more robust long-term powertrain warranties.