Listening is often discribed as a valuable skill, but the importance of VW listening to customers seems to have diminished. Volkswagen, learned this the hard way, as their refusal to truly listen to customers contributed to a decline in sales and market share over the years. However, Volkswagen has finally started paying attention. The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas are the results of this newfound listening, with more to come in the form of the electric ID. Buzz van.
Listening to Your Customers
The refreshed Atlas and Cross Sport models demonstrate what can happen things change and with VW listening to customer complaints and media feedback, choosing to make comprehensive improvements rather than simply making superficial changes.
Although the previous iterations of these family SUVs were already very popular and offered good value, Volkswagen decided to make decisive upgrades to the interior, body design, powertrain, and standard features. The result is a significant boost in quality and performance that sets the Atlas siblings apart from their competitors.
The Atlas was specifically designed for the American market, its a clear response to the increasing demand for spacious SUVs.
A decade ago, passenger cars made up the majority of VW’s U.S. sales, but now SUVs account for 83%.
The Tennessee built Atlas, has sold nearly 500,000 units since its introduction in 2018 and is the most profitable model for the brand.
First Impressions
We take a first look at the Atlas SEL Premium R-Line, the top-of-the-line model, Immediately, it’s evident that Volkswagen had made significant improvements to the interior. The cheap plastic materials were replaced with nicer soft-touch materials, new color options, and attractive seat trims and decors. The addition of quilted, diamond-pattern leather seats, although somewhat cliché, added a touch of luxury. The front seats, however, could still benefit from more cushioning and support.
Volkswagen also added value to the Atlas by making quality leather and heated rear seats standard on SEL models. The introduction of optional 30 color ambient lighting further improves cabin appeal. While the interior may not reach the same level of luxury as a Kia Telluride, it still upholds Volkswagen’s German heritage and offers more than expected in its class, further proof of VW listening to customers feedback.
On the exterior, the 2024 Atlas models receive a refreshed design with a more aggressive front grille and LED lighting. Available 20 or 21 inch alloy wheels and the sharp sheet metal give the Atlas a distinctive and attractive appearance.
Inside, the Atlas features a larger 12-inch center screen, a notable improvement over the previous version. Also offers a 10.25 inch driver’s display, full screen navigation readouts, and an optional head up display.
Standard features in the 2024 Atlas lineup
Include three zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, adaptive front lighting, height adjustable passenger seat, voice controls, wireless charging, and VW’s wireless AppConnect.
Additionally, an IQ.Drive driver-assistance system is now standard, offering features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot warning, and improved automatic emergency braking.
The Atlas impresses with its spacious interior, giving ample legroom for second-row passengers and sliding and reclining functionality. Its flexible seating arrangement allows for easy access to the third row, the ability to keep child seats installed while accessing the rear seats. With the third row in use, the Atlas offers nearly 21 cubic feet of space, which expands to a whopping 96.8 cubic feet when all seats are folded.
Engine and Drivetrain
Under the hood, the engines have been replaced by updated, 2.0-liter turbo-four engine from the Golf R and Arteon. Although slightly detuned to 269 horsepower, this upgraded provides better acceleration and a more responsive driving experience.
The eight speed auto transmission has also been refined, offering smoother shifts and paddle shifters for more control. Fuel economy has improved, with front wheel drive models achieving 8.5 l/km city, 11.5 l/km highway.
While the Atlas won’t handle like a sports car, its light steering and comfortable ride make it an enjoyable SUV for everyday use. The braking performance is impressive, providing both a cushy initial application and the ability to deliver confident stops when needed.
Overall, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport show what can happen when the automaker VW listening to customers. The upgrades made to these models address previous concerns and enhance their appeal in a highly competitive market. The Atlas delivers on its promises of quality, performance, and value. Volkswagen has proven that listening to customers can lead to successful and satisfying products.