• Auto123 gets in a first drive of the 2027 Volkswagen Atlas.
Huntsville, AL – Volkswagen has a thoroughly renewed Atlas in store for 2027. Auto123 was on hand for its official unveiling last spring in New York. A few months later, we reconnected with the second-generation SUV for a first drive in Alabama, roughly two hours from the assembly plant that builds it, in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Since its arrival, the Atlas has stuck to a straightforward formula: offer generous space and three rows of seating in a package designed to meet the needs of North American families. With this redesign, Volkswagen messes not with that core identity, while addressing several weaker aspects of the outgoing model. Interior fit and finish, in particular, makes a substantial leap forward.
Good thing, too - the redesign comes in a segment offering buyers an abundance of choice. To capture their attention, a spacious cabin is no longer enough. The Atlas must also deliver on technology, comfort and fuel efficiency.
2027 Volkswagen Atlas – What’s new?
The Atlas enters its second generation built on an updated MQB Evo architecture with a redesigned body. While the dimensions remain similar, the interior layout, materials and standard equipment have all been overhauled.
The 4-cylinder engine also gains a boost in output. More on that below.
The Canadian lineup now consists of three trims: Comfortline, Highline and Execline R-Line. All feature standard 4Motion all-wheel drive and a factory tow package.
Volkswagen also retains the Atlas Cross Sport for its second generation, though that smaller 5-seat variant isn’t quite ready yet. We’ll be driving it in the coming months when it is.
Design of the 2027 Volkswagen Atlas – 8.0/10
Volkswagen made no attempt to disguise the SUV’s substantial proportions. The hood remains imposing, the fenders well-defined and the silhouette retains a blocky stance. It is immediately recognizable as an Atlas, even with the all-new body panels.
At the front, stacked headlights and a revised grille do give the vehicle a fresh signature. Highline and Execline R-Line trims add light strips and illuminated emblems. Around back, full-width taillights span the liftgate, echoing the front lighting theme with clear Audi-inspired flair.
Wheel sizes range from 18 to 21 inches depending on the trim. Three new exterior colours join the palette, including Boreal Green and a metallic Mulberry hue. A welcome departure from the traditional mix of white, black and grey.
Interior of the 2027 Volkswagen Atlas Interior – 9.0/10
Opening the door tells you where Volkswagen really went to town. The level of refinement inside is vastly higher than in the previous generation. Soft-touch surfaces, premium trim accents and overall fit and finish lend a much more polished feel. Volkswagen has even integrated genuine wood across all trims.
The Comfortline trim comes with leatherette upholstery, while higher trims feature Varenna or Nappa leather. Multiple interior colour schemes are offered, including a Garnet Red cabin on the Execline R-Line — a great option for buyers wanting a break from all-black interiors.
We also appreciated that all trims come standard with a second-row bench seat, meaning buyers don’t have to sacrifice 7-passenger seating to enjoy higher equipment levels. Second-row captain's chairs remain available as an option on the top two trims.
The bench seat slides and reclines to ease access to the third row. Its mechanism also allows it to tilt forward with a child seat installed, depending on the configuration. For families using the rear seats regularly, this is a major practical detail.
Technology in the 2027 Volkswagen Atlas – 8.0/10
Volkswagen took user feedback to heart regarding technology. The return of a physical rotary dial to control volume deserves special mention. Positioned on the centre console, it also serves to select drive modes and cabin ambient lighting. For an action as frequent as adjusting the volume, it is a hugely welcome addition.
Dual wireless smartphone chargers are another highlight. Their magnetic grip keeps compatible phones secure, while integrated cooling prevents overheating. It is a thoughtful feature that solves a common pain point when two occupants need to charge simultaneously.
The central touchscreen measures 12.9 inches in the Comfortline and 15 inches in higher trims. A 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster comes standard, as do wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Top-tier trims add a head-up display and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. VW’s representatives made a lot of noise, so to speak, about the latter during their presentation of the new Atlas, but truth is the sound system did not strike us as exceptionally distinctive.
Powertrain of the 2027 Volkswagen Atlas – 7.0/10
All 2027 Atlas models are powered by a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine representing a significant mechanical evolution.
This EA888 Evo5 engine produces 282 hp, or 13 more than the previous model, and 258 lb-ft of torque. Volkswagen revised the turbocharger, fuel injection and various internal components. As well, the engine runs on regular fuel, which is a valid selling point given where fuel prices are.
An 8-speed automatic transmission and 4Motion all-wheel drive come standard. Towing capacity remains capped at 5,000 lb for trailers equipped with brakes.
Where’s the hybrid variant, you ask? In the future. In fact, for the 2027 model-year, Volkswagen offers no electrified vehicles in its Canadian lineup following the departure of the ID.4 and continued hiatus of the ID. Buzz. For buyers looking to cut fuel costs through hybridization, this absence remains a hurdle.
Fuel consumption
Volkswagen estimates fuel consumption of the new Atlas at 11.4L/100 km city, 8.4L/100 km highway and 10.0L/100 km combined, marking an improvement over the outgoing model.
During our evaluation in Alabama, we observed an average of 10.2L/100 km. This closely aligns with the manufacturer's combined estimate, though a short first drive cannot replace a long-term evaluation.
In this segment, the Atlas competes against rivals that already offer hybrid options, placing it at a disadvantage in terms of fuel efficiency.
Driving the 2027 Volkswagen Atlas – 7.0/10
On the road, the extra 13 horses don’t transform the driving experience. Without consulting the spec sheet, perceiving the bump in power would be difficult. The Atlas's updates are far more evident inside the cabin than behind the wheel.
As before, the road manners of this SUV feel more American than German. The Atlas remains a large family vehicle first and foremost; drivers seeking the sharp dynamics historically associated with the brand may come away underwhelmed.
Launch response was particularly disappointing. Hesitation from the engine's automatic start-stop system combines with transmission lag and uninspired accelerator tuning, impeding smooth off-the-line acceleration. A more immediate and natural throttle response would be welcome.
2027 Volkswagen Atlas – Pricing in Canada
Pricing starts at $53,795 CAD for the Comfortline, $60,995 for the Highline and $63,995 for the Execline R-Line, plus $2,450 in freight and PDI. Complimentary scheduled maintenance is included for three years or 45,000 km.
The final word
The 2027 Volkswagen Atlas advances where improvements were most needed. Its refined cabin, the return of a physical volume control and practical tech details make the interior far more compelling. Offering a standard second-row bench across the lineup honours its family-first mission.
The 2027 Atlas brings much more than a cosmetic update, but one key piece remains missing: a hybrid powertrain. Families prioritizing fuel efficiency will need to wait or shop elsewhere.