Volkswagen’s Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport are getting a refresh for 2024. VW says the two will get big cabin upgrades with more premium materials. The V6 engine will also be discontinued and replaced with an almost equally powerful 2.0L four-cylinder engine.
For 2024, the two versions of the Atlas get styling that does a better job of setting them apart, Volkswagen says. The two will still look pretty similar until you get to where the Cross Sport’s roof starts to tail off. Both models get a new four-bar grille with new LED lights. The Cross Sport has a gloss black grille and a gloss black X design element across the bottom of the fascia.
The rear spoiler gets bigger on both models. VW says the effect is a longer and sleeker side view profile. Cross Sport models have a more aggressive rear diffuser as well.
Volkswagen’s oddball narrow-angle VR6 engine has been a part of the Atlas since it launched, but to help improve efficiency, it will be discontinued. Instead, a new turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder will be the only choice.
While last year’s 2.0L four-cylinder engine made 235 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, this one has an upgraded 269 hp and 273 lb-ft. That’s just a few horses shy of the 3.6L V6’s 276 hp, but slightly more torque than its 266 lb-ft of torque. Importantly, the new four-cylinder will offer more torque over a much wider range.
The automaker didn’t give estimates, but said that it “is anticipated to provide improved fuel economy.” An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard, as is all-wheel drive.
In the cabin, VW says that it has moved to more premium materials and a more impressive finish. That includes a leatherette soft-touch dash, trim that flows smoothly from door to dash, and an available 30-colour ambient lighting system.
The upgrades also include a standard heated steering wheel as well as standard heated and ventilated front seats. Every trim gets a 12-inch floating centre screen and there is a 10.25-inch fully configurable digital dash.
IQ.Drive, VW’s highway driving assistant, is also standard. The system combines adaptive cruise control with lane-centring to help make long drives easier. It will also help alert you to obstacles in town.
As far as pricing and availability, expect the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas and 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport to show up at dealers early in the third quarter. Pricing and details will come just before launch.
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