2024 Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport: Enhanced Technology, Upgraded Interiors, and a More Lively Powertrain
Volkswagen of America unveiled the revamped 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport models at the Chicago Auto Show, featuring technology enhancements, superior interior designs, and an invigorated powertrain. This refreshed duo, retaining the strong foundation of their predecessors, offer notable upgrades aiming to deliver a more elevated driving experience for the American market. The new models are expected to hit U.S. dealers in the third quarter of 2023.
Inside The Refreshed Cockpit
The interior overhaul is particularly noteworthy in these 2024 models. Both Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport offer premium materials including leatherette-trimmed soft-touch dashboards and center consoles. The design seamlessly integrates front-row door trim and décor into the dash panel, delivering an upscale cockpit vibe. This treatment is mirrored in the second-row, creating a uniform and elegant aesthetic. High-end models offer quilted leather seats with diamond patterns, adding a dash of sophistication to the cabins. Additional improvements extend to comfort features, including a heated steering wheel with shift paddles, ventilated front seats, a height-adjustable passenger seat, and automatic climate control as standard. An updated center console with a storage cubby and leather seating surfaces and heated rear seats available in lower trim lines are added bonuses.
Advanced Technological Integration
The 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport are technologically advanced, offering a more connected experience. These models showcase a 12-inch floating infotainment display as the cockpit's elegant focal point. Every trim level benefits from the 10.25-inch fully configurable Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro. Standard features include wireless App-Connect, wireless charging, and six USB-C ports with eight available and 45-watt fast charging. The IQ.DRIVE® driver assistance technology is now standard, featuring semi-automatic capabilities, lane centering, and a capacitive steering wheel for safer and more convenient driving.
A Refined Exterior
The 2024 model year introduces a new front-end design, further differentiating the Atlas from the Atlas Cross Sport. Both models display a wide chrome four-bar grille framed by LED headlights equipped with the standard Adaptive Front-lighting System. A new front fascia with integrated air intakes completes the front-end treatment. The rear end features a larger spoiler, extending the overall roofline and lending the vehicles a sleeker side profile. New wheel designs are available across all trims, with sizes ranging from 18 to 20 inches, with machined alloy and black finishes. The R-line® trims add a gloss-black grille, 21-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, and signature R-line badging for a sportier appeal.
Revamped Powertrain
Under the hood, both 2024 models are powered exclusively by a four-cylinder turbocharged and direct-injection TSI® engine producing 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) of torque. This new engine offers similar power to the outgoing VR6, with an increased torque range for better drivability and acceleration. The anticipated improvement in fuel economy would be a welcome change for potential buyers, although official EPA estimates are yet to be announced. A standard eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive are included, with Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system available across the model lineup.
Price and Availability
According to the latest announcement, the 2024 Atlas has a starting MSRP of $37,725, and the Atlas Cross Sport begins at $36,995. Both prices exclude the $1,195 destination charge. These prices represent a slight increase over the outgoing models, attributable to the numerous enhancements and upgrades.
The Atlas is offered in four trim levels: S, SE, SEL, and R-Line, while the Atlas Cross Sport is available in the same trim levels plus an exclusive Premium R-Line version. The cost increases with higher trims and additional options, with the Atlas R-Line starting at $45,925 and the top-tier Atlas Cross Sport Premium R-Line carrying a base price of $50,595.
All models are expected to arrive at Volkswagen dealerships across the United States starting in the third quarter of 2023. Volkswagen's new car warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles, with two years of complimentary scheduled maintenance included.
With these updates, Volkswagen continues its tradition of innovation and commitment to providing excellent driving experiences. The 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport models underline the automaker's focus on balancing design, technology, and performance to meet and exceed consumer expectations.
-Ed
2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
