What's New For the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas?

Since the Atlas debuted in 2018, Volkswagen decided it's not due yet for a significant design change. That's just fine with consumers, as evidenced by the SUV's popularity and award-winning features. However, the SUV still gets subtle changes for 2020 to stay as competitive as possible. This year, the Atlas features a two-year free maintenance plan. It also receives a 50,000-mile or four-year warranty.

Aside from those changes that cover all trims, there are some model-specific changes to enjoy, too. This includes the addition of a standard 2.0 Car-Net infotainment system. A WiFi hotspot is now standard as well. The SE Tech, a variant of the SE trim, gets standard 20-inch wheels. Larger 21-inch wheels are standard on the SEL Premium. The SE Tech R-Line now includes backup parking sensors and a motion-activated liftgate. Despite all these changes, The VW Atlas remains a family-friendly SUV with plenty of style and multiple seating configurations no matter which enticing trim level you choose.

What Features are Available for 2020?

There are three primary trims available for the 2020 VW Atlas and several variants. The base trim, called the S, stands out with chrome accents and bold LED headlights. This trim comes equipped with a 6.5-inch infotainment display screen complete with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and Volkswagen's Car-Net infotainment system. You get a USB charging port with this trim as well.

Moving up to the SE trim, which is the mid-level Atlas, means a larger eight-inch infotainment screen and three more USB charging ports. The infotainment system includes satellite radio starting with this trim, and the sound system gets eight speakers rather than six. The SEL comes with many variants and available packages to create a custom look and finish. Its amenities include optional captain's chairs to save room in the back row, a more advanced climate control system, and more standard safety technology. The top Atlas trim is called the SEL. It also comes in many variants.

The SEL comes standard with an eight-inch touchscreen display that includes navigation as well. It also has more parking-assist technology, including park distance control. A panoramic sunroof, available on select trims, comes standard on the SEL. This year, it gets standard 21-inch wheels, but you can also select stylish 20-inch wheels with various finishes. A VW digital cockpit is available, as are R-Line trim badges and bumpers.

2020 VW Atlas Powertrain Options

The 2020 VW Atlas is available with two engines. The base is a 2.0L turbo engine with four cylinders. This engine's power output reaches 235 HP. You can also get a slightly more powerful V6 engine that delivers up to 276 HP. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. You can get an all-wheel-drive with the V6 engine only. The all-wheel-drive configuration also has various driving modes.

Packed with Safety Features

Inside and out, the 2020 VW Atlas is made to keep you safe. The SUV's exterior features a durable safety cage with front and rear crumple zones. The Atlas comes equipped with a backup camera as well. All trims get some driver-assist safety aids, including forward-collision avoidance and automatic emergency braking.