X

2021 Volkswagen Atlas prices hold steady, even with more safety gear

The Atlas is a little longer, houses slightly more standard gear and costs no more for entry-level SUV.

Sean Szymkowski
It all started with Gran Turismo. From those early PlayStation days, Sean was drawn to anything with four wheels. Prior to joining the Roadshow team, he was a freelance contributor for Motor Authority, The Car Connection and Green Car Reports. As for what's in the garage, Sean owns a 2016 Chevrolet SS, and yes, it has Holden badges.
Sean Szymkowski
2 min read
2021-volkswagen-atlas-suv-promo
Enlarge Image
2021-volkswagen-atlas-suv-promo
Volkswagen

gave its largest SUV, the , a slight refresh for the 2021 model year, but prices hold steady.

The German brand said on Thursday the 2021 Atlas will start at $32,565 after a $1,020 destination charge. The starting price is identical to the 2020 model, while other trims see minimal price bumps of a couple hundred bucks. The only real changes to the entry-level Atlas S trim is an expended suite of active safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, and the exterior-interior design changes. A 2.0-liter turbo-four also remains.

New front and rear bumpers, headlight and taillight designs and a three-bar grille separate the 2021 model from the outgoing SUV. There's a new steering wheel design inside as well, but a 6.5-inch infotainment display remains. All other trims get an 8.0-inch display.

Those who want all-wheel drive will, however, have the ability to add the layout to the base S trim now, which brings the price to $34,465, or $1,900 extra.

2021 Volkswagen Atlas has sharper looks and more safety features

See all photos

The Atlas SE remains the sweet spot with smart keyless entry, leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, and three-zone climate control. Prices start at $35,915 and AWD remains a $1,900 option. A Technology package will outfit the family hauler with, as you may have guessed, more tech. A hands-free liftgate, remote start, a rear power outlet and added active safety gear are all part of the package, which touts a price of $37,915. The trim also unlocks the optional V6 engine for another $1,400. Finally, an R-Line package adds sporting cues to the SUV and starts at $40,715.

At the top of the range is the SEL trim, which starts at $43,315. The trim builds upon the features found in the SE Technology trim and includes VW's Digital Cockpit, a panoramic sunroof, even more active safety tech and an adaptive front-lighting system. Notably, the standard powertrain is the V6 engine here, while the turbo-four engine comes exclusively paired with AWD for $43,415.

A Premium sub-trim of the SEL range bumps the cost to $48,215 and also comes exclusively with AWD. But, buyers will also find leather upholstered, heated and ventilated seats, a Fender audio system and more. Leaving the VW dealer with the most expensive model will set you back $51,715 for an SEL R-Line, which. includes all the SEL Premium goods plus sporting touches, like 21-inch wheels.

We'll see the refreshed SUV hit dealer lots in the second quarter of 2020 and its smaller, coupe-like sibling, the Atlas Cross Sport, should already be sitting and waiting for new homes.

Watch this: VW Atlas looks sharper, drives safer