Behold, the Atlas—Volkswagen’s largest SUV, complete with three rows of seating, a robust engine, and heaps of standard and available perks to make your commute more convenient.
The 2026 Atlas has five trims to choose from, but what’s the difference, really? Is it better to go whole hog and spring for the most expensive model, or can you save some money and live without certain things? That’s what we’re here to help with. If you’re shopping for an SUV near Cleburne, TX, read our quick guide to find out everything you need to know about the various Atlas trim levels.
2026 VW Atlas Trim Levels
Below, you’ll find the important features you can expect to find standard with each trim. It’s important to note that, while higher trims will have most of the tech and comfort features included in entry-level ones, some specific features may be absent.
SE
Starting price: $39,310
The base-level trim comes surprisingly well-equipped, with the largest available infotainment system and a variety of other premium features, all standard issue.
Key features:
- 18-inch machined alloy wheels
- Adaptive Front Lighting System
- Climatronic® three-zone climate control
- V-Tex leatherette seating
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Digital Cockpit Pro
- 12-inch center touchscreen display
- Wireless device charging
- IQ.DRIVE
SE with Technology
Starting price: $43,730
As the name suggests, the SE with Technology improves upon the already stacked base model by adding in a few extra tech features.
Key features:
- Most SE trim features
- 20-inch machined alloy wheels
- Integrated light bar
- Remote start
- Sunroof
- Front and rear Park Distance Control
- HomeLink® rearview mirror
Peak Edition
Starting price: $48,060
The Peak Edition adds its own unique aesthetic flair to bring a little extra personality to the Atlas, while standard A/T tires improve off-road performance.
Key features:
- Most SE with Technology trim features
- 18-inch black alloy wheels
- All-terrain tires
- Panoramic sunroof
- Peak Edition exterior styling
- Peak Edition interior styling
- Multicolor ambient lighting
SEL
Starting price: $49,620
Now we’re getting into the truly luxurious side of the Atlas lineup, which can be recognized by a refined interior and even more technology features.
Key features:
- Most SE with Technology trim features
- 20-inch machined alloy wheels
- Leather seating
- Heated second row seats
- Head-up display
- Dynamic Road Sign Display
SEL Premium R-Line
Starting price: $54,630
The R-Line is unmistakable for its body styling and top-level comfort amenities, providing the most high-end experience for shoppers near Fort Worth.
Key features:
- Most SEL trim features
- 21-inch machined alloy wheels
- R-Line exterior design
- Perforated Vienna leather seating
- Massaging front seats
- Harmon Kardon® audio system
- Overhead View Camera
2026 VW Atlas Specs and Features
Now that we’ve gone through all the key amenities you’ll enjoy with each Atlas trim, let’s check out some of the excellent features that every model has in common.
2026 VW Atlas MPG and Performance
The Atlas is motivated by the 2.0-liter TSI® engine that cranks out 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and all trims come standard with front-wheel drive, but they can be optioned with 4MOTION® all-wheel drive.
Fuel economy for the Atlas remains the same as last year. With FWD, it achieves an estimated 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway, while AWD models get about 20 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. However, some trims with larger wheels will get slightly lower gas mileage numbers.
Additionally, all models come with Drive Mode Select, which allows you to tailor the way you ride based on your needs and current road conditions. FWD models get Eco, Sport, Comfort, Custom, and Snow modes, while AWD models add an Offroad mode.
2026 VW Atlas Dimensions and Interior
Now that the VW Tiguan has officially dropped its optional third row, the Atlas is now the only Volkswagen model with seating for up to seven people. Here’s a look at some of its interior dimensions:
| Head room 1st row 2nd row 3rd row | 41.3 in 40.4 in 38.3 in |
| Legroom 1st row 2nd row 3rd row | 41.7 in 37.6 in 33.7 in |
| Cargo volume Behind 3rd row Behind 2nd row Behind 1st row | 20.6 cu ft 55.5 cu ft 96.6 cu ft |
With nearly a hundred cubic feet of storage space and plenty of legroom for everyone to fit comfortably, the Atlas is the perfect solution for larger families who still want a sporty SUV.
2026 VW Atlas Safety Features
All Atlas models come with IQ.DRIVE, Volkswagen’s suite of driver assistance technology. Standard features include:
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop and Go
- Front Assist (Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring)
- Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System)
- Active Side Assist (Blind-Spot Monitor)
- Travel Assist (semi-automated driving assistance)
- Emergency Assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency)
- Rear Traffic Alert
Additionally, other driver assistance tech is available, and we included some standout features in our breakdown of trims above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Updates to the 2026 VW Atlas?
The Atlas got a major overhaul for the 2024 model year, and it’s remained largely unchanged since then. However, for 2026, the HomeLink® rearview mirror now comes in the SE with Technology trim and above.
What’s the Towing Capacity of the 2026 VW Atlas?
All Atlas models can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Does the 2026 VW Atlas Have Captain’s Chairs?
Yes, the Atlas can be optioned with either second-row bench seating or captain’s chairs, which are available on all trims except for the base-level SE.
What are the Available Colors on the 2026 VW Atlas?
Colors include Silver Mist Metallic, Avocado Green Metallic, Mountain Lake Blue Metallic, Opal White, Deep Black Pearl, and Pure Gray. However, some trims only have certain colors available. You can use VW’s online configurator or call your local dealership to learn more.
Find the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas in Burleson, TX
Now that you’re an expert on Atlas trim levels, features, and pricing, you’re probably ready to check it out in person. Lucky for you, at Family Volkswagen of Burleson, we have an excellent selection of new Atlas models for sale, plus some limited-time special offers so you can enjoy low APR financing and VW lease deals.
Contact us online or call us at 682-349-1946 to schedule a test drive today.
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