What’s New for 2024?
Volkswagen has made several key updates to streamline the Atlas lineup and enhance its appeal:
- A new 2.0L turbocharged engine replaces the old V6 and previous turbo-four
- Revised front and rear styling with modern LED lighting
- Standard Digital Cockpit Pro and a larger infotainment screen
- Improved interior materials and acoustic refinement
- Simplified trim lineup to make purchasing decisions easier
The result is a more refined, better-performing Atlas that continues to deliver what Canadians expect from a practical family SUV: space, safety, and solid winter capability.
Performance and Engine
Gone is the previous V6 engine—in its place, Volkswagen has equipped every 2024 Atlas with a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that delivers more torque and efficiency.
2024 VW Atlas Engine Specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Turbocharged I4 |
| Horsepower | 269 hp |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD or 4MOTION AWD |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) |
In everyday driving, the new engine feels responsive and confident. Thanks to the additional low-end torque, it handles highway passing and urban commuting with ease. The 4MOTION all-wheel drive system remains one of the best for tackling Canadian winters, offering confidence on snow-covered roads and icy parking lots.
Fuel Efficiency (Estimated, L/100 km):
- FWD Models: 11.2 city / 8.4 highway
- AWD Models: 11.8 city / 9.0 highway
Interior Comfort and Space
The Atlas continues to be one of the largest three-row SUVs in its class. With seating for up to seven or eight passengers, depending on the configuration, it provides a truly comfortable cabin for families, hockey gear, pets, and more.
Interior Highlights:
- Standard heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated second-row seats (on most trims)
- 12-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Digital Cockpit Pro (10.25-inch screen) is standard across the lineup
- Premium leather seating and Harman Kardon audio are available on upper trims
- Three-zone climate control standard
With its flat load floor and easily foldable second and third rows, the Atlas makes road trips, school runs, and Costco hauls far more manageable than many rivals.
Cargo Capacity (Metric):
| Area | Volume |
|---|---|
| Behind 3rd Row | 583 litres |
| Behind 2nd Row | 1,572 litres |
| Behind 1st Row (Max) | 2,735 litres |
Technology and Connectivity
The 2024 Atlas now includes more tech as standard than ever before.
Key Features:
- Wireless smartphone charging pad
- Over-the-air software update capability
- Six USB-C ports (up to 45W fast charging)
- Optional head-up display (upper trims)
- Intuitive infotainment with updated user interface
While some may need time to adjust to VW’s new touch-sensitive controls for volume and climate, the system responds quickly and pairs seamlessly with mobile devices.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety remains a top priority in the 2024 Atlas. Every trim comes standard with the IQ.DRIVE safety suite, including:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Assist (lane centering)
- Front Assist (automatic emergency braking)
- Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Travel Assist – semi-autonomous highway driving
- Automatic high beams and rain-sensing wipers
The Atlas is expected to earn strong crash test scores again from the IIHS and NHTSA, and Volkswagen Canada offers excellent after-sales support through its network of service centres.
Trims and Canadian Pricing
For the Canadian market, the 2024 VW Atlas is offered in a simplified trim structure. (All pricing shown is approximate MSRP and may vary by province or dealer.)
| Trim | Starting MSRP (CAD) | Drivetrain | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trendline | ~$50,000 | AWD | Heated seats, Digital Cockpit, 18″ wheels |
| Comfortline | ~$55,000 | AWD | Power tailgate, remote start, leatherette |
| Highline | ~$59,000 | AWD | Panoramic sunroof, navigation, power seats |
| Execline R-Line | ~$63,000 | AWD | Quilted leather, Harman Kardon audio, 20″ wheels |
The Trendline and Comfortline trims are great value picks for growing families, while the Execline R-Line brings near-premium comfort with the visual flair of sportier styling.
How It Compares in Canada
| SUV | Starting MSRP (CAD) | Max Cargo Volume | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|
| VW Atlas 2024 | ~$50,000 | 2,735 L | FWD or AWD |
| Kia Telluride 2024 | ~$52,000 | 2,455 L | AWD |
| Toyota Grand Highlander 2024 | ~$53,000 | 2,761 L | AWD |
| Honda Pilot 2024 | ~$52,900 | 3,166 L | AWD |
The Atlas holds its own with a large interior, strong AWD system, and some of the most modern tech features in the segment, though rivals like the Pilot offer more cargo with seats down.
Final Verdict: Is the 2024 Atlas Right for Canadian Drivers?
If you’re looking for a spacious, family-friendly SUV with real winter capability, strong tech, and a smooth ride, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas delivers. It’s one of the best three-row options available in Canada for buyers who want practical luxury without premium pricing.
Best For:
- Families needing real third-row space
- Buyers looking for upscale tech without luxury-brand costs
- Canadian winters that demand a true AWD system
- Long road trips, carpooling, and daily commuting
Ready to Shop for the 2024 Atlas?
Visit your local Volkswagen Canada dealership to book a test drive or explore current offers.
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