The new 2020 VW Atlas is coming unchanged. Well, basically this is true. But, on the other end, we will see two other vehicles derived from this nameplate. The Atlas Cross Sport is a two-row version of the SUV. In other markets, it will appear as Teramont X. It already had a debut in China. The US version, Cross Sport, is still under the heavy camo and it will have a premiere late this year. The other model doesn’t have too many similarities with the SUV. Probably because it is a pickup truck. The Atlas Tanoak concept is ready for production and it will debut as the 2020 year model. After these two, we could see the new version of the three-row vehicle.
The 2020 VW Atlas is going to be one of the most versatile SUVs in the segment. Well, the competition is more than tough. But, the German carmaker is still capable to respond to any challenge. And the latest one is the hybrid drivetrain. Currently, only Toyota offers its Highlander as the mid-size three-row hybrid. Volkswagen has concepts and plans to add a similar engine for its flagship SUV. The Cross Sport variant was already spotted with a plug opening. Besides the styling, its larger sibling could borrow the PHEV drivetrain as well.
2020 VW Atlas Engines
The mid-size SUV is using both the four-cylinder and V6 engine. Another thing why we highlighted its versatility as a key. Volkswagen will offer something for anyone. In this case, the base version is capable to produce 235 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque by using a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine. The 4Motion all-wheel drive is the only mode, while the SUV transfers energy through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Another option is a 3.6-liter V6 unit. Like its smaller sibling, this one is using the same gearbox and drive options, including drive modes: Normal, Eco that boosts fuel economy, and Sport, that improves performance. Towing capacity is 5,000 pounds (above average for the class), while the best combined fuel economy is 24 mpg coming from a four-pot unit. Optionally, buyers can pick a front-wheel drive, but only if they select the V6 engine.
Hybrid and PHEV
As said, the new cousin with Atlas’ name is going to use the hybrid technology. Spy photos are confirming that. But, not too long time ago, the company also gave us hints about the PHEV version. Nevertheless, there are a lot of missing details, including gas mileage and outputs. Also, fans still don’t know if the three-row 2020 VW Atlas is getting the hybrid engine. Cross Sport could use the PHEV mode, while the regular SUV might get a conventional hybrid, without a plug-in charger. This version will arrive after the standard one.
2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport (Teramont X)
The 2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport is a two-row SUV. It debuted in China as Volkswagen Teramont X. Atlas is also known as Teramont in this part of the world. The Cross Sport is going to be a smaller version of the Atlas. We know it is 7.5 inches shorter and 2.5 inches lower. The Cross Sport will come with less cargo room than its bigger sibling. Behind the second row, the original model offers 55.5 cubic feet of space, and with all seats folded down, the capacity grows to 97 cubic feet. Behind the third row there is 20.5 cubic feet of cargo space. Atlas Cross Sport will be more agile and fuel friendly on the other hand. The two-row SUV uses the same drivetrains as the Atlas, producing a very similar amount of power. It will remain so until the hybrid comes out. According to rumors, the total outputs of the PHEV will be over 350 horsepower.
Volkswagen Atlas Tanoak Pickup Truck Ready For Production
Buyers in the US can’t wait to see VW’s new product. The company started the production of the pickup truck we saw last year in Chicago. Slightly modified, the 2020 VW Atlas Tanoak will debut next season. Chiefs are sure the sport truck will be able to compete in the mid-size market. VW opted for this move as many other companies since this segment is reviving. We could see the comeback of the Ford Ranger last year, and Jeep is also back in the game after 30 years. Besides that, a couple of new arrivals, such as Atlas Tanoak, will offer more options to buyers.
2020 VW Atlas Price
The base 2020 VW Atlas is mostly unchanged. It will pick up some styling solutions from its smaller sibling. Still, that is not going to affect the price. Volkswagen will offer its seven-seat SUV for just above $31,000. The SEL Premium is the heavily-packed version with the price tag above $50,000. Cross Sport five-seat SUV will cost under $30,000, while the Atlas Tanoak should be around $26,000. When it appears, the hybrid model will definitely be the most expensive version, especially if it achieves 350 horsepower.
