Quick Takeaways:

• The 2025 Atlas retains most features from the major 2024 redesign
• Key improvements include a 10-way adjustable driver’s seat (up from 8-way), 15W wireless charging, and standard Light Assist
• New color options: Mountain Lake Blue now available, while Avocado Green and Pure Grey are offered across more trim levels
• Simplified trim lineup with 5 options (down from 6 in 2024)
• Fuel economy slightly decreased to 20/26/22 MPG from 20/27/23 MPG

If you’re considering a Volkswagen Atlas, understanding the key differences between the 2025 and 2024 models will help you make an informed purchase decision. While the three-row midsize crossover underwent substantial changes from 2023 to 2024, the 2025 model represents a more subtle evolution with several notable refinements worth exploring.

2025 vs. 2024 Volkswagen Atlas: Key Specifications

Feature	2024 Volkswagen Atlas	2025 Volkswagen Atlas	What This Means For You
Standard Engine	2.0L turbo 4-cylinder	2.0L turbo 4-cylinder	Same robust performance
Horsepower	269	269	Identical power output
Drivetrain Options	FWD or 4MOTION AWD	FWD or 4MOTION AWD	Same versatile options
Transmission	8-speed automatic	8-speed automatic	Consistent shifting experience
Maximum EPA-Est. MPG (City/Highway/Combined)	20/27/23	20/26/22	Slight decrease in efficiency
Towing Capacity	5,000 lbs	5,000 lbs	Same impressive hauling capability
Length	200.7 inches	200.7 inches	Identical exterior dimensions
Body Width	78.3 inches	78.3 inches	Same spacious feel
Height	70.4 inches	70.4 inches	No change in vehicle height
Seating Capacity	6-7	6-7	Same flexible configuration options
Legroom (1st/2nd/3rd Row)	41.7/37.6/33.7 inches	41.7/37.6/33.7 inches	Equally generous space
Headroom (1st/2nd/3rd Row)	41.3/40.4/38.3 inches	41.3/40.4/38.3 inches	Same comfortable headroom
Cargo Space (Behind 3rd row/Maximum)	20.6/96.6 cubic feet	20.6/96.6 cubic feet	Identical storage capacity
Number of Trims	6	5	Simplified lineup
Number of Paint Colors	8	9	More color choices
Comparison between 2024 and 2025 Volkswagen Atlas models.

What’s Actually New for the 2025 Atlas?

While the specifications chart reveals many similarities, the 2025 Atlas does introduce several meaningful upgrades that enhance comfort, convenience, and personalization options:

Enhanced Standard Features

• 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat (improved from 8-way in 2024)
• 15W wireless charging (upgraded from standard wireless charging)
• Light Assist now included as standard equipment
• SEL Premium R-Line additions: massage functionality for front seats, 4-way lumbar support, and headrest perforation on all seats

Expanded Color Options

• Mountain Lake Blue debuts as an all-new color choice
• Avocado Green and Pure Grey now available across more trim levels (previously limited to Peak Edition models)

Streamlined Trim Structure

The 2025 Atlas simplifies the trim lineup to five distinct options:

• Atlas SE
• Atlas SE with Technology
• Atlas Peak Edition
• Atlas SEL
• Atlas SEL Premium R-Line

This represents a more streamlined approach compared to the 2024 model year, which featured two separate Peak Edition variants (Peak Edition SE with Technology and Peak Edition SEL).

Driving Experience: Has Anything Changed?

The 2025 Atlas carries over the same powertrain that debuted in 2024, featuring the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 269 horsepower. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, this setup delivers responsive acceleration and capable performance for everyday driving scenarios.

Driving Modes

Both FWD and 4MOTION AWD configurations continue to offer multiple driving modes:

• Eco
• Comfort
• Sport
• Custom
• Snow

4MOTION models add an exclusive Off-Road Mode, perfect for adventurous drivers who occasionally venture beyond paved surfaces.

Towing Capability

When properly equipped, the 2025 Atlas maintains its impressive 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity—sufficient for hauling:

• Small to medium-sized boats
• Camping trailers
• Utility trailers
• ATVs and recreational equipment

Fuel Economy

The 2025 model shows a slight decrease in efficiency, with EPA estimates of 20/26/22 MPG (city/highway/combined) compared to the 2024 model’s 20/27/23 MPG rating.

Interior Space and Comfort: Still a Family-Friendly Champion

The 2025 Atlas continues to excel in interior spaciousness, offering the same generous dimensions that make it stand out in the three-row SUV segment:

• Total passenger volume: 154 cubic feet
• Third-row legroom: 33.7 inches (significantly more than many competitors that offer under 30 inches)
• Cargo capacity options:
  • 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row
  • 55.5 cubic feet with third row folded
  • 96.6 cubic feet with second and third rows folded

Seating Configurations

The 2025 Atlas continues to offer flexibility with:

• Standard seven-passenger configuration with second-row bench seat
• Available six-passenger layout with second-row captain’s chairs, providing:
  • Enhanced comfort for middle-row passengers
  • Easier access to the third row
  • A more premium feel in the cabin

Design Elements: Subtle Refinements

The 2025 Atlas largely maintains the refreshed design language introduced in 2024, characterized by:

• Wide chrome four-bar grille
• Powerful 900D-lumen LED headlights
• Available panoramic sunroof

The Peak Edition continues to feature its distinctive styling elements:

• Unique front fascia with X-shaped design
• Two chrome strips over the black grille background

Which Model Year Is Right For You?

Consider the 2025 Atlas if:

• You value the latest technology upgrades like the improved wireless charging and 10-way power seat
• You want access to the newest Mountain Lake Blue exterior color
• You prefer the simplified trim lineup
• The enhanced luxury features in the SEL Premium R-Line appeal to you

Consider the 2024 Atlas if:

• You find better deals or incentives on remaining inventory
• The slightly better fuel economy is important to your budget
• You prefer one of the specific Peak Edition variants that were consolidated for 2025

Future Outlook: Electrification on the Horizon?

While Volkswagen hasn’t yet introduced a hybrid variant of the Atlas, the company continues to expand its electric vehicle lineup. As Volkswagen accelerates its electrification strategy globally, we may eventually see electrified versions of popular models like the Atlas in coming years.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas

What colors are available for the 2025 VW Atlas?

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas comes in nine distinct colors:

• Pure White
• Opal White Pearl
• Silver Mist
• Platinum Grey
• Deep Black Pearl
• Aurora Red Chroma
• Mountain Lake Blue (new for 2025)
• Avocado Green (now available on more trims)
• Pure Grey (now available on more trims)

Does the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas have a third row?

Yes, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas comes standard with three rows of seating. Depending on your configuration choice, it can accommodate either six passengers (with second-row captain’s chairs) or seven passengers (with a second-row bench seat).

Can you get captain’s chairs in the 2025 VW Atlas?

Yes, second-row captain’s chairs are available on the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas. This configuration:

• Reduces total seating capacity from seven to six
• Provides more comfortable accommodations for second-row passengers
• Creates an easy-access pathway to the third row
• Offers a more premium, spacious feel in the cabin

Is the 2025 VW Atlas all-wheel drive?

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas offers both front-wheel drive and 4MOTION all-wheel drive configurations. The 4MOTION system:

• Comes standard on higher trim levels
• Is available as an option on entry-level trims
• Provides enhanced traction in challenging weather conditions
• Includes an additional Off-Road driving mode not available on FWD models

What’s included in the IQ.DRIVE system on the 2025 Atlas?

The IQ.DRIVE system, standard on all 2025 Atlas models, includes advanced driver assistance features:

• Travel Assist (semi-automated driving assistance)
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go
• Lane Assist (lane keeping system)
• Emergency Assist
• Front Assist with Autonomous Emergency Braking
• Blind Spot Monitor
• Rear Traffic Alert

How does the 2025 Atlas compare to other three-row SUVs?

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas stands out in the competitive three-row SUV segment with:

• Class-leading third-row legroom (33.7 inches)
• German-engineered driving dynamics
• Impressive 5,000-pound towing capacity
• Generous cargo space
• Distinctive European styling
• Competitive technology features

When will the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas be available?

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas is arriving at dealerships now. Contact your local Volkswagen dealer for specific availability information and to schedule a test drive.