Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas, a three-row SUV that's been a pretty popular choice for families looking for space and practicality. Volkswagen really aimed to hit the sweet spot with the Atlas, and after spending some time with it, I can see why it’s a contender. If you're in the market for a family hauler that doesn't feel like a lumbering beast, you'll want to stick around as we break down what makes this SUV tick, and if it's the right fit for your crew. We'll be covering everything from its spacious interior to its driving dynamics and all the tech goodies inside. So, buckle up, and let's get this review rolling!

Interior Space and Comfort: The Atlas's Strong Suit

When we talk about the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas, the first thing that usually comes to mind is its absolutely cavernous interior. Volkswagen clearly designed this SUV with families and their gear in mind. Seriously, guys, if you need space, the Atlas has got it in spades. The first two rows offer generous legroom and headroom, making even long road trips a breeze for adults. But the real star of the show is the third row. Unlike many competitors where the third row is more of a suggestion for smaller humans, the Atlas actually provides a usable space for adults to squeeze into for shorter journeys. It’s not exactly first-class seating, but it’s way better than most. Plus, getting into that third row is surprisingly easy thanks to the innovative slide-and-fold second-row seats. This feature makes accessing the rear most seats a cinch, even if you have child seats installed in the second row. This attention to practical detail is something families will truly appreciate. Cargo space is equally impressive. With all three rows up, you still have a decent amount of room for groceries or essentials. Fold down the third row, and you’ve got a massive cargo hold that can swallow strollers, sports equipment, or even flat-pack furniture with ease. Fold down the second row too, and you’re looking at a veritable cavern, ready for almost any hauling task you can throw at it. The seats themselves are comfortable, offering good support for extended drives. The materials used throughout the cabin feel solid and durable, which is important for an SUV that’s likely to see its fair share of spills and wear and tear. You won't find overly luxurious finishes, but the overall impression is one of well-built functionality. The cabin is also remarkably quiet, with road and wind noise nicely suppressed, adding to the overall comfortable and refined feel of the interior. This makes for a more enjoyable driving experience, allowing for easier conversations and a more relaxed atmosphere for everyone on board. For families, this level of comfort and usability in the interior is a massive win and a key reason why the Atlas remains a strong contender in its segment. It’s a place where everyone, from the driver to the passengers in the very back, can feel reasonably comfortable and accommodated, which is no small feat for a vehicle of this size.

Performance and Driving Dynamics: Smooth Sailing, Mostly

Now, let's talk about how the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas actually drives. Under the hood, you have two engine options to choose from. The base engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which is perfectly adequate for most daily driving needs. It offers decent power for merging onto highways and navigating city streets without feeling strained. However, if you're looking for a bit more oomph, especially for hauling a full load of passengers and cargo, the optional 3.6-liter V6 engine is definitely the way to go. This V6 provides a more confident and robust performance, making acceleration feel more effortless and giving you that extra bit of reassurance when you need it. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which does a commendable job of shifting smoothly and keeping the engine in its power band. Now, the Atlas isn't exactly a sports car – and let's be real, most people buying a three-row SUV aren't looking for that. Its primary focus is on comfort and a smooth ride, and in that regard, it excels. The suspension is tuned to soak up bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a comfortable experience for all occupants. This makes it a great companion for those long family road trips where comfort is paramount. The steering is light and predictable, making the Atlas surprisingly easy to maneuver for its size. Parking can be a bit of a chore in tight city spots, but the available parking sensors and rearview camera certainly help. While it's not the most engaging SUV to drive dynamically, it offers a stable and composed feel on the road. Body roll in corners is present, as expected for a vehicle of this height and weight, but it’s well-controlled and never feels unnerving. The brakes are firm and responsive, providing confidence when you need to slow down. Overall, the driving experience in the Atlas is characterized by its relaxed and comfortable nature. It prioritizes a smooth, quiet, and stable ride over sporty handling, which aligns perfectly with its intended purpose as a family-focused SUV. It’s a vehicle that makes driving less of a chore and more of a pleasant journey, even with a full car. The engine choices offer flexibility depending on your needs, but even the base engine is competent. It’s a solid all-around performer for its class.

Technology and Features: Keeping You Connected and Safe

When you're driving the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas, you want to know that it’s packed with the latest tech and safety features to keep everyone happy and protected. And thankfully, VW has done a pretty good job here. The infotainment system is a highlight. Even on the base models, you get a responsive touchscreen that's pretty intuitive to use. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the board, which is a huge win, guys. This means you can easily connect your smartphone to access your favorite navigation apps, music, and make calls hands-free. Higher trim levels get a larger screen, which is even more immersive. The available Volkswagen Digital Cockpit is another neat feature. It replaces the traditional analog gauges with a high-resolution display that you can customize to show all sorts of information, from navigation directions to trip data. It really gives the interior a modern and high-tech feel. In terms of comfort and convenience features, the Atlas offers a good range. Heated and ventilated front seats are available, as are heated second-row seats, making it a comfortable choice for all seasons. A panoramic sunroof lets in plenty of natural light, adding to the airy feel of the cabin. Keyless entry and push-button start are standard, which is always a welcome convenience. On the safety front, the 2022 Atlas comes equipped with a suite of driver-assistance features. Standard features often include a rearview camera and some basic driver aids. But if you step up to higher trims or specific packages, you can get access to more advanced systems like: Forward Collision Warning with Autonomous Emergency Braking, which can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision; Blind Spot Monitoring, to alert you of vehicles in your blind spots; Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, which is super helpful when backing out of parking spaces; Adaptive Cruise Control, which can maintain a set speed and distance from the car in front; and Lane Keeping Assist, to help keep you centered in your lane. These features are not just buzzwords; they genuinely add an extra layer of security and peace of mind, especially when you’re driving with your most precious cargo – your family. The integration of these technologies feels pretty seamless, and they work unobtrusively in the background, ready to intervene if necessary. Overall, the tech and safety package in the Atlas is comprehensive and user-friendly, making it a smart choice for safety-conscious buyers.

Fuel Economy: What to Expect

Let's be honest, fuel economy isn't always the sexiest topic when it comes to large, three-row SUVs like the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. These vehicles are designed for space and capability, which often means they aren't going to win any awards for gas mileage. However, understanding what to expect can help you budget and plan your trips. The Atlas offers two engine choices, and as you might expect, they have different fuel economy ratings. The standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, when paired with front-wheel drive, is rated by the EPA at around 21 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. With all-wheel drive (Volkswagen calls it 4MOTION), these numbers dip slightly to about 20 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. These figures are competitive within the midsize three-row SUV segment, though not groundbreaking. They represent a reasonable compromise for the amount of space and capability you get. Now, if you opt for the more powerful 3.6-liter V6 engine, you're looking at slightly lower fuel economy numbers. With front-wheel drive, the V6 is rated at approximately 17 MPG city and 23 MPG highway. Opting for all-wheel drive with the V6 brings those figures down to around 16 MPG city and 22 MPG highway. As you can see, the V6 does command a noticeable penalty at the pump compared to the four-cylinder. For families who do a lot of driving, especially long commutes or frequent road trips, the difference in fuel costs between the two engines could add up over time. Therefore, if fuel efficiency is a primary concern, the four-cylinder engine is the clear winner. It’s also important to remember that these are EPA estimates. Your actual mileage may vary depending on your driving habits, road conditions, and how heavily loaded your vehicle is. For instance, a lot of stop-and-go city driving will typically yield lower MPG than steady highway cruising. Likewise, using the all-wheel-drive system more frequently in slippery conditions can also impact fuel economy. Despite these figures, the Atlas remains a practical choice for many families. The fuel economy isn't terrible, and for the space and comfort it provides, many buyers find it to be an acceptable trade-off. It’s always a good idea to factor in these numbers when comparing the Atlas to other vehicles in its class, as it can be a significant part of the overall cost of ownership.

Pros and Cons: The Verdict on the 2022 Atlas

Alright guys, let's wrap this up with a clear rundown of the good and the not-so-good of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. Knowing the pros and cons can really help you decide if this is the right SUV for your family.

Pros:

• Spacious Interior: This is the Atlas's biggest selling point. The generous passenger and cargo space, especially the usable third row and easy access, is fantastic for families. It truly offers one of the most accommodating interiors in its class.
• Comfortable Ride: The Atlas provides a smooth and comfortable ride, making it ideal for long journeys. It effectively absorbs road imperfections, ensuring a relaxed experience for everyone.
• User-Friendly Tech: The infotainment system is intuitive, and standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration is a major plus. The available Digital Cockpit adds a modern touch.
• Good Standard Safety Features: While higher trims offer more, the base Atlas comes with a decent set of safety aids, and optional features like Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Monitoring are excellent.
• Practical Cargo Space: With the rear seats folded, the Atlas offers a massive amount of cargo room, capable of handling large items and plenty of luggage.
• Attractive Styling (Subjective): The exterior design is generally seen as clean and modern, which appeals to many buyers looking for a stylish yet understated family vehicle.

Cons:

• Mediocre Fuel Economy: Especially with the V6 engine, the fuel economy isn't the best in its class. While competitive, it’s not a strong suit.
• Uninspired Base Engine: While adequate, the standard four-cylinder engine can feel a bit underpowered when the Atlas is fully loaded.
• Not the Most Engaging Driving Dynamics: While comfortable, the handling isn't sporty. Some competitors offer a more engaging driving experience, though this is a trade-off for comfort.
• Interior Materials: While durable, some of the interior plastics can feel a bit hard and less premium compared to certain rivals.
• Third-Row Seat Comfort (Still): While better than many, the third row is still best suited for shorter trips or smaller passengers.

In conclusion, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas is a highly competent and practical family SUV. It excels in the areas that matter most to families: space, comfort, and usability. While it might not be the most exciting to drive or the most fuel-efficient, its strengths make it a compelling option for anyone prioritizing a comfortable and accommodating ride for their crew. If you need a vehicle that can haul people and gear with ease, the Atlas should definitely be on your shortlist.