The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas lasts around 200,000 miles with some average fuel pump and stereo system issues. At $24,750 to $41,998, it’s a decent value for a midsize SUV with some upscale features for the cost.
Is the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2021 is a good year for the Volkswagen Atlas since it offers a nice cabin and great features. Owner reviews praise the smooth suspension, all-wheel drive system, and the advanced technology features available.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are relatively nice for a midsize SUV, the seats are supportive on long drives, cargo space is also excellent.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no major problems found on the 2021 Atlas. Models from 2018–2019 have some issues, while 2020–2022 are much more dependable as they age.
- Performance 7/10 – The standard four-cylinder engine is a bit weak, while the optional V6 offers average performance for a midsize SUV.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2021 Atlas is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with automatic emergency braking and a rearview camera. Optional upgrades include adaptive cruise control along with lane keep assist.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is fine at up to 24 MPG, offering 446 miles of range out of the 18.6 gallon tank. Gas costs are $24 cheaper than average, at $219 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas is less expensive than some other midsize SUVs, with average ownership costs, giving it a high overall value score.
Positive Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the VW Atlas?
- Consumer Reports says the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas puts size and functionality front and center, with good owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the Volkswagen Atlas at 3.3/5, enjoying the easy to use cabin design, but doesn’t like the lower fuel economy than some competitors.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Atlas a 3.9/5, praising the very spacious cabin, but owners don’t like the low towing capacity of only 5,000 pounds.
What Common Problems Does the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Have?
Common problems found on the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas include a loss of fuel pressure, frozen stereo system, along with some issues with the power seats. Overall, these problems are a bit worse than some other midsize SUVs from the same year, with some slightly higher repair costs due to the expensive parts and labor.
A loss of fuel pressure is the most widespread complaint from 2021 Atlas owners, showing up within the first 20,000 miles. Usually, the problem is caused by one of the fuel pumps, which wears out. Changing out the fuel pump is often covered under warranty, but if the SUV is out of warranty, then it’s around $1,200 to swap out.
A frozen stereo system has also been reported by some Atlas owners in the first 1,000 miles. There are some software updates available for the system, which improves its reliability. Most dealerships will install these updates for free, while some charge around $50.
Issues with the power seats are another problem on some Atlas models at roughly 30,000 miles. There are several reasons why the seats fail, including switches which cost around $150 to replace, all the way up to the seat motors, which are more expensive at around $750.
There are 16 recalls on the 2021 VW Atlas, which is worse than other midsize SUVs from the same year. The most serious recall covers the steering knuckle, which is known to break. VW will replace the steering knuckle for free on affected models. Many of the other recalls cover air bags and warning decals, which are common on many makes and models.
How Long Will the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Last?
A well-maintained 2021 Volkswagen Atlas can last around 200,000 miles, which is shorter than some other midsize SUVs, including the Toyota Highlander. Regular annual maintenance costs are higher than some competitors, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $865 per year.
As a used 2021 Atlas reaches 100,000miles, and depending on the vehicle history report, owners should be prepared to replace the ignition lock cylinder for $200, oil pump costing $900, along with the timing chain tensioner, which costs $1,400.
How Is the Technology?
The standard entertainment technology is good, and includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional upgrades include a larger 8-inch touchscreen, along with a premium Fender sound system.
The standard safety technology is great, and features:
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Forward collision warning
- Forward automatic emergency braking
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Pedestrian detection
- Rearview camera
Optional driver assistance upgrades include:
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Surround-view parking camera system
- Automatic high-beam headlights
- Traffic-jam assist
- Hands-free parallel park assist
- Lane-keep assist
- Adaptive cruise control
Is the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas a Good Value?
Yes, the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas is a decent value since it offers a practical cabin and good features for a midsize SUV. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $24,750 to $41,998, making it less than a Jeep Grand Cherokee or Hyundai Palisade. When new, the price range was $30,855 to $50,725. Depreciation is similar to other SUVs losing about 7% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the VW Atlas?
There are five main models of the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas offered from the entry-level S through to the more luxurious SEL premium. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.
Volkswagen Atlas S is the entry-level model with:
- Cloth upholstery
- 5-inch touch screen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth connectivity
- USB port
- Six-speaker stereo
- Wi-Fi hotspot
- Remote keyless entry
- Heated side mirrors
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- LED headlights
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
- Rearview camera
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Forward collision warning
- Pedestrian detection
- Forward automatic emergency braking
Volkswagen Atlas SE is a step up, adding:
- Synthetic leather upholstery
- Heated front seats
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- 8-inch touch screen
- HD Radio and satellite radio
- Three additional USB ports
- Wireless device charging
- Proximity keyless entry
- Push-button start
- Power liftgate
- Automatic climate control
- Rear sunshades
Volkswagen Atlas SE with Technology is a popular choice with:
- Remote start
- Hands-free power liftgate
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Adaptive cruise control
- 20-inch wheels
- Optional tow package
- Optional second-row captain’s chairs
- Available panoramic sunroof
- Optional R-Line package
Volkswagen Atlas SEL offers more upgrades such as:
- Navigation system
- Digital gauge cluster
- Panoramic sunroof
- Heated steering wheel
- Trailer hitch and tow package
- Automatic high-beam headlights
- Lane-keep assist
- Low-speed traffic-jam assist
- Optional R-Line package
- Optional second-row captain’s chairs
Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium is the flagship model with:
- Three-row configuration
- Standard all-wheel drive
- Genuine leather upholstery
- Ventilated front seats
- Heated rear seats
- Ambient interior lighting
- 12-speaker Fender sound system
- Power-folding side mirrors
- Hands-free parallel park assist
- Surround-view camera system
- Optional second-row captain’s chairs
What Engines Come In the VW Atlas?
- The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas comes with two engine options, each offering a distinct balance of power and efficiency. The first option is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which delivers 235 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive gear shifts. It boasts a combined fuel economy of 24 MPG and can accelerate from 0-60 MPH in about 7.2 seconds, offering a blend of efficiency and performance suitable for daily driving.
- For those seeking more power, the Atlas also offers a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing a more robust 276 horsepower and 266 lb.-ft of torque. This engine, also coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission, provides a smoother and more engaging driving experience. The V6 model has a slightly lower combined fuel economy, around 19 MPG, reflecting its increased power output. It accelerates from 0-60 MPH in roughly 7.8 seconds, providing a more spirited performance ideal for those who prioritize power and acceleration in their driving experience.
What Colors Does the VW Atlas Come In?
How Comfortable Is the VW Atlas?
The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas stands out in its class for delivering a high level of comfort, catering to both drivers and passengers with its thoughtfully designed interior and smooth driving experience. Inside, the Atlas offers a spacious cabin, with ample headroom and legroom in all three rows, making it a suitable choice for families and groups. The seats are designed with comfort in mind, featuring soft yet supportive cushioning, ideal for long journeys. The front seats are particularly noteworthy, offering adjustability and, in higher trims, amenities like heating and ventilation, which add to the comfort during different weather conditions. The second-row seats are equally accommodating, providing enough space to comfortably seat adults, a feature not always found in midsize SUVs. The third row, surprisingly roomy for the segment, can comfortably seat teenagers or adults on shorter trips, making the Atlas a versatile choice for varying passenger needs.
The comfort in the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas extends beyond its spacious and well-appointed interior to its ride quality. The vehicle is engineered to provide a smooth and quiet ride, effectively absorbing most road imperfections and minimizing the impact of bumps and potholes. The Atlas’s suspension is tuned to balance comfort and handling, guaranteeing a composed drive whether navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. Additionally, the cabin is well insulated from road and wind noise, further enhancing the sense of tranquility inside the vehicle. The intuitive layout of the dashboard and the user-friendly infotainment system also contribute to a relaxed driving experience, allowing the driver to focus on the road while easily managing controls and settings. Overall, the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas excels in delivering a comfortable and serene driving experience, making it a strong contender for anyone seeking a family-friendly SUV that does not compromise on comfort.
How Much Storage Space Does the VW Atlas Have?
The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas is a versatile SUV designed to cater to the needs of both families and adventure enthusiasts, offering a generous amount of storage space. In terms of its cargo capacity, the Atlas boasts a substantial area that varies depending on the seating configuration. With all seats in place, it offers 20.6 cubic feet of space behind the third row, which is ample for day-to-day needs like grocery shopping, carrying sports equipment, or stowing a couple of medium-sized suitcases. For more extensive storage needs, the Atlas provides 55.5 cubic feet with the third row folded down, which is ideal for larger items like furniture, several large suitcases, or camping gear for a family outing. When both the second and third rows are folded, this expands to an impressive 96.8 cubic feet, providing ample room for bulkier items such as bicycles, large boxes, or even a kayak.
In addition to the main cargo area, the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas is replete with small interior storage spaces that enhance its practicality. These include sizable door bins in both the front and rear, capable of holding water bottles and small items, a glovebox, and a center console for storing personal items like wallets and phones. The Atlas also features under-seat storage areas and a hidden compartment in the cargo area, perfect for keeping valuables out of sight or organizing smaller items. Cup holders, seat-back pockets, and a spacious area beneath the center armrest further add to the storage convenience, making the Atlas a well-thought-out vehicle for those who value organization and space efficiency. This combination of expansive cargo space and thoughtfully designed small storage solutions makes the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas a compelling choice for anyone seeking a practical and versatile SUV.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The Volkswagen Atlas was introduced in 2018 as a larger midsize SUV offered by VW.
2018: First model year for the VW Atlas, which was built to replace the outgoing Touareg.
2019: More trim levels launched with additional features.
2020: Car-Net and Wi-Fi hotspot are now standard on all models, minor changes to the options packages.
2021: Small exterior styling changes, updated and higher quality interior materials.
2022: The entry-level S model was discontinued, minor changes to the standard features.
How Does the VW Atlas Compare to the Competition?
The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas is a good midsize SUV since it offers a lot of technology and a high-quality cabin, although it does get expensive as it ages due to the high parts and labor costs.
The Honda Pilot is another midsize SUV, which costs about $2,000 less. Passenger room is better in the Honda Pilot, while the VW Atlas offers a better interior. We recommend the Honda Pilot since it’s a more reliable choice, with lower ownership costs as it ages.
The Ford Explorer is a popular SUV, which is available for around $2,500 more. Performance is better in the Ford Explorer, while the VW Atlas has a higher-quality interior. We recommend the VW Atlas since it’s more affordable, but it’s a good idea to test both to see which fits your life and style better.
