The 2019 Volkswagen Atlas lasts around 150,000 miles, with some serious engine stalling and transfer case leak issues reported. At $21,700 to $36,900, it’s cheap, but not worth the money when you’ll spend thousands keeping it running as it ages.
Is the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 7/10 – 2019 is a bad year for the Volkswagen Atlas since there are still some mechanical problems, making it one buyers should avoid. Owner reviews complain about the short warranty, leaks, and spending a lot of time in the shop.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – The interior materials are nice for a midsize SUV, the seats are comfortable on longer trips, cargo space is also very good.
- Reliability 7/10 – There are still some mechanical problems on the 2019 Atlas, although it is improved from 2018. The models from 2020–2022 are much more reliable.
- Performance 6/10 – Performance is not great from either the four-cylinder or V6 engine, which are both weaker than some competitors.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2019 Atlas is safe, and earns a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with automatic emergency braking along with a rearview camera. Optional features include parking sensors as well as parallel park assist.
- Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 24 MPG, offering 446 miles of range out of the 18.6 gallon tank. Gas costs are $28 cheaper than average at $270 per month.
- Value 7/10 – The 2019 Volkswagen Atlas is less expensive than other midsize SUVs, although the rapid depreciation lowers the long-term value score.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the VW Atlas?
- Consumer Reports says the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas offers a generous and quiet interior, with lower than average owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the Atlas at 3.8/5, enjoying the good compromise between handling and comfort, but doesn’t like the relatively weak engines.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the 2019 Atlas a 3.9/5, praising the spacious third row of seating, but owners don’t like the frustrating stereo system.
What Common Problems Does the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas Have?
Common problems found on the 2019 VW Atlas include the engine stalling, leaks from the transfer case, along with issues with the crash assist system. Overall, these problems are worse than other midsize SUVs on the market, leading to more expensive repair costs as an Atlas ages.
The engine stalling is the most widespread complaint from 2019 Atlas owners, showing up at around 10,000 miles. Usually, the problem is caused by sensor issues, which cause the air to fuel ratio to be incorrect. Diagnosing and fixing stalling issues can cost $250 to $1,000, depending on the source.
Leaks from the transfer case are another issue mentioned by 2019 Atlas owners at around 30,000 miles. The seals on the transfer case simply start to fail as the SUV gets older, and they have to be replaced. Changing out the seals is a labor-intensive process, costing around $700.
Issues with the crash assist system also show up on some Atlas models at around 20,000 miles. Owners report that the system turns on randomly, leading to sudden braking. There are software updates available for the system. Most dealerships will install these updates for free, while others charge around $50 for labor.
There are ten recalls on the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas, which is worse than most other midsize SUVs on the market. The most serious recall covers the rear coil springs, which can fracture, and cause an accident. VW will replace the springs on affected models for free. Other recalls include key chime warnings, air bags, headlights, the fuel tank, and tires.
How Long Will the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas Last?
A well-maintained 2019 Volkswagen Atlas can last around 150,000 miles, which is only half as long as the dependable Toyota Highlander. Regular annual maintenance costs are higher than other midsize SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $735 per year.
As a used 2019 Atlas reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the A/C temperature sensor for $190, fuel pump costing $700, along with the water pump, which costs around $1,300.
The rear cross traffic detector has not always worked. It works approximately 80% of the time. We recently had a cracked tail light and apparently it is a common problem with this model.
No problems at all. It is very reliable. It drives great in the winter weather which is important for me in upstate New York.
It's reliable but I have had issues with the check engine light coming on and VW doesn't seem to know what's causing it. But it runs fine.
How Is the Technology?
The standard entertainment technology is good, offering a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional upgrades include a larger 8-inch touchscreen, as well as a premium Fender sound system.
Standard safety technology is excellent for a midsize SUV, and includes:
- Rearview camera
- Blind spot monitoring
- Forward collision warning
- Pedestrian detection
- Post-collision braking system
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Automatic emergency braking
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Optional driver assistance features include:
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Parallel park assist
- Surround-view parking camera system
Is the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas a Good Value?
No, the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas is not a good value since it still suffers from some mechanical problems, although they’re not as bad as the 2018 model. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $21,700 to $36,900, making it less than a Honda Pilot or Jeep Grand Cherokee. When new, the price range was $30,895 to $48,395. Depreciation is worse than other SUVs, losing about 15% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the VW Atlas?
There are seven models of the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas offered, from the entry level Atlas S through to the more luxurious SEL Premium. The Atlas comes standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.
S is the entry-level model with:
- Cloth seating
- Second-row bench seat
- LED automatic headlights
- Dual-zone manual climate control
- Rearview camera and cruise control
- Forward collision mitigation
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- 5-inch touchscreen interface
- Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity
SE is a step up, adding:
- Simulated-leather upholstery
- Push-button start
- Power driver’s seat
- Heated front seats
- Rear sunshades
- Three-zone automatic climate control
- 8-inch touchscreen interface
- Car-Net subscription services
- Option of captain’s chairs in the second row
SE with Technology has more features such as:
- Remote engine start
- Power rear liftgate
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keeping assist
- Active blind-spot monitor
SE with Technology R-Line additions and enhancements over the SE with Technology:
- 20-inch wheels
- Unique bumpers and side skirts
- Special R-Line badging
- Unique interior trim
SEL is next, adding:
- Panoramic sunroof
- LED tail lights
- Power-adjustable front passenger’s seat
- Heated steering wheel
- Hands-free rear liftgate
- Park distance control
- Upgraded touchscreen display with navigation
- Volkswagen Digital Cockpit
SEL R-Line additions and enhancements over the SEL:
- 20-inch wheels
- Unique bumpers, side skirts, and badging
- Unique interior trim
SEL Premium is the flagship model, which has:
- Standard all-wheel drive
- Automatic high-beam headlights
- Power-folding mirrors with puddle lamps
- Full leather seating
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated second-row seats
- 12-speaker Fender sound system
- 360-degree surround-view parking camera
- Parking assist system
- Unique 20-inch wheels (with 21-inches as an available option)
What Engines Come In the VW Atlas?
- 2.0-liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Engine: This engine produces 235 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque at up to 24 MPG. It’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Towing capacity for this engine variant stands at 2,000 pounds. As for performance, the 2.0-liter engine can propel the Atlas from 0 to 60 MPH in roughly 7.2 seconds.
- 3.6-liter V6 Engine: A more robust option, the V6 engine delivers a punchier 276 horsepower and 266 lb.-ft. of torque. In tandem with the same eight-speed automatic transmission, its fuel economy sits at around 20 MPG. For those in need of more towing power, this engine boasts a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. Acceleration-wise, the 3.6-liter V6 takes the Atlas from 0 to 60 MPH in an estimated 7.9 seconds.
What Colors Does the VW Atlas Come In?
How Comfortable Is the VW Atlas?
The 2019 VW Atlas stands out not only for its impressive size but also for its commendable comfort features. It’s designed with the American consumer in mind, emphasizing spaciousness and a comfortable ride, making it an excellent choice for both short commutes and long road trips. Inside, the Atlas offers three rows of seating, with the second and third rows being notably spacious even for adult passengers – a rarity in many three-row SUVs. The seats themselves are supportive and plush, providing a comfortable ride over extended periods.
For drivers, the elevated driving position offers a commanding view of the road, and the well-tuned suspension guarantees that most road imperfections are absorbed, providing a smooth and quiet ride. In addition to physical comfort, the interior is thoughtfully laid out with user-friendly controls and infotainment features that further enhance the driving experience. Quality materials are used throughout, and there’s an underlying sense of solidity that gives passengers a feeling of security. Whether it’s a quick trip around town or a cross-country adventure, the 2019 VW Atlas makes sure passengers travel in comfort and style.
How Much Storage Space Does the VW Atlas Have?
The 2019 VW Atlas is designed with spaciousness in mind, catering to both families and those who require ample storage for their activities. Regarding raw numbers, behind the third-row seating, the Atlas offers 20.6 cubic feet of space. This is enough for daily errands such as grocery shopping or stowing away a couple of medium-sized suitcases.
If you fold down the third-row seats, that space expands considerably to 55.5 cubic feet, allowing room for larger items like bicycles, larger suitcases, or home improvement supplies. For maximum cargo capacity, folding down both the second and third rows will grant you an impressive 96.8 cubic feet of storage space, making it suitable for transporting sizable items like furniture or a plethora of camping gear. In addition to the main cargo space, the Atlas has various nooks, pockets, and compartments throughout the cabin for smaller items, guaranteeing that both driver and passengers have convenient places to store personal belongings or travel essentials.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The Volkswagen Atlas was launched for the 2018 model year as a new midsize SUV from VW.
2018: First model year for the Volkswagen Atlas, which replaces the outgoing VW Touareg.
2019: Additional trim levels introduced with more features.
2020: Car-Net communications and Wi-Fi hotspot are standard on all models, minor changes to available options packages.
2021: Small exterior body changes and upgraded interior materials.
2022: Entry-level S model no longer offered, minor changes to the standard features.
How Does the VW Atlas Compare to the Competition?
The 2019 Volkswagen Atlas is a bad midsize SUV since it still has a lot of mechanical problems, making it one that we do not recommend owning out of warranty due to the high repair costs.
The Toyota Highlander is another midsize SUV, which costs around $3,500 more. Standard safety technology is better in the Toyota Highlander, while the VW Atlas offers a bit more passenger room. We recommend the Toyota Highlander since it’s a much longer-lasting SUV.
The Honda Pilot is a popular competitor, which can be found for about $2,500 more. Passenger room is better in the Honda Pilot, while the VW Atlas offers a more upscale interior for the money. We recommend the Honda Pilot since there are fewer complaints from owners as they age.
Do Owners Recommend the VW Atlas?
Overall it is a good vehicle for the price. There have been minor issues with the car, but still overall a good ride. The car is extremely spacious and rides smooth. The atlas with technology has good features such as blind spot monitoring and advanced cruise control which come in handy.
It is a wonderful family vehicle with tons of room for my kids, groceries, our dogs and more. I love the way it drives and the look is slick but practical. It is my favorite vehicle ever!
Yes it is a good car; has great safety features like back up camera, crash collision sensors and lane assist.
