The first facelift for the new SUV by Volkswagen is happening in 2021. Atlas caused a lot of interest all around the world. We can see this mid-size model already competing with much older vehicles in the market. Also, its platform is so versatile, we could get the new truck based on it. With such capability, there is no surprise why expectations from the 2021 VW Atlas are so high.
Atlas is a fresh sport utility vehicle launched in 2018. It uses a turbocharged four-cylinder or a V6 engine. In China, the SUV appears as Teramont and gets power from a 2.5-liter turbo engine. The new model could introduce a hybrid drivetrain. However, this one is not confirmed yet. On the other hand, improvements in the R-Line model will make it more attractive.
The Cross Sport is a coupe version of the SUV, that will cut down two seating positions. This version is expected next year, and it could be the biggest addition to the 2021 Atlas lineup. This is quite opposite of what VW did with Tiguan. The compact crossover grew and became a seven-seater.
2021 Volkswagen Atlas Changes
The 2021 VW Atlas will go through a modest facelift to update its appearance. The company is focused more on the Cross Sport edition and its spy photos could show us the way of the redesign of the standard model. We can expect a fresh grille, which is going to be pretty much the same as the current one. Only true fans can recognize details and finishes the new vehicle is going to bring. Also, the German carmaker could refresh the color palette.
The good thing is that no fewer colors will be available. The base model comes with eight options. Inside, the choice depends on the trim level and material you choose for the upholstery. Only Premium models offer Golden Oak combination, besides Black and Shetland.
Interior, Accessories, R-Line
Color options are not the only nice thing about the 2021 VW Atlas cabin. The SUV is a seven-seater and it offers plenty of space. The facelift changes are not going to affect the cargo space. You will find 20 cubic feet behind the third row, and when folded, the room increases to 55.5 cubic feet. All seats down and you will get 97 cu.ft.
The base offer comes with a 6.5-inch touchscreen display and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Upper trim levels will add leatherette and leather upholstery, heated power buckets, and the larger infotainment screen. The system also gets more options, such as extra USB ports and premium audio. Power liftgate, captains chairs in the middle row, or multi-zone climate control are available at high-end trim levels. The R-Line package can be added to SE or SEL models. The appearance package brings special bumpers, panoramic moonroof, and navigation.
Specs
Under the bonnet of the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas is a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine as the base option. Available only with a front-wheel drive, it can create 235 horsepower. An eight-speed transmission distributes power both for a four- or six-cylinder engine. More power comes from a 3.6-liter V6. With 275 hp, drivers can count on the higher towing capacity. Properly equipped, it jumps to 5,000 pounds, while the standard setup offers 500 lbs fewer. It is not the main advantage over the smaller block. A popular 4Motion all-wheel drive is available, which makes a ride much more fun. If you are about to get your Atlas off the asphalt, then 8-inch ground clearance is providing enough space beneath the body for tough adventures.
Atlas Tanoak – The Pickup Truck
It is not a secret – Volkswagen is developing a pickup truck for the US market. The company already produces such a vehicle, and you know about the Amarok. However, for the US market, the German carmaker is preparing a new version, with different chassis and drivetrains. And the name as well. The VW will try to benefit from the SUV’s popularity and launch the Atlas Tanoak Truck.
What is 2021 VW Atlas Cross Sport?
It is not certain yet which model is about to come out first. While we have a truck’s concept already debuted, the spy photos of the 2021 VW Atlas Cross Sport show the new SUV is also close to production. According to the latest images, we will get the coupe version of the vehicle, but with two rows of seats. These kinds of SUVs are becoming more popular, although they kill some advantages.
When Will The 2021 VW Atlas Be Released?
Changes in the new 2021 VW Atlas are not too big, but the arrival of the Cross Sport model will definitely be noteworthy. The vehicle is still a prototype and the carmaker is testing its capabilities. The premiere of the new Volkswagen Atlas will happen in the second half of 2020, probably in Detroit. We doubt the VW will wait for the fall and LA Auto Show.
