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We’ve spent generations without a three-row SUV wearing the Volkswagen badge. The VW Atlas is still new in the market, but it’s become one of the most popular choices for families. If you want a midsize three-row SUV with European driving qualities, the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas could be the right SUV for you to drive.

1. There’s more space in the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas than you might expect

2023 Volkswagen Atlas SUV Interior
2023 Volkswagen Atlas SUV Interior | Volkswagen

Many midsize three-row SUVs have a cramped rear area that doesn’t fit adults in the rearmost row. Thankfully, the Atlas delivers roomy comfort across all three rows, making it easy for adults to fit in every seat. The cargo room you’ll find measures 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row. This space expands to 96.8 cubic feet with the second and third rows down.

2. Do you want a sporty-looking VW SUV?

Blue 2023 Volkswagen Atlas
Blue 2023 Volkswagen Atlas | Volkswagen

Volkswagen offers the R-Line name to their largest SUV. This R-Line package brings a sporty appearance package with unique front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and wheels. The SEL R-Line Black model takes things a little further with stylish black accents.

3. When Equipped with AWD, the Atlas brings Active Control to your drive

If you check that box for AWD when ordering your 2023 Volkswagen Atlas, you’ll enjoy the benefits of the Active Control system. This system brings four settings to your drive:

  • Onroad
  • Snow
  • Offroad
  • Custom Offroad

Will you set this SUV to your desired off-road driving personality with the custom setting?

4. The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas has the desired connectivity

A gray 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport premium two-row midsize SUV model driving on a forest highway road
2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport | Volkswagen of America, Inc. Newspress Limited

Some European vehicles feel limited when offered without some connectivity features. Thankfully, this VW SUV brings you wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. The base model has a small 6.5-inch touchscreen, but all other trims have a more reasonable 8-inch screen. Other infotainment features you’ll admire in the Atlas are:

  • Wireless device charging
  • Enhanced voice recognition
  • Seven USB-C ports

5. Volkswagen takes a page out of the Audi playbook

For years, the Audi Digital Cockpit has been one of the most admirable features in the luxury vehicle lineup. Volkswagen adopts this same technology to give you the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit and Digital Cockpit Pro. The standard version gives you a standard digital gauge cluster, and the upgraded model has a bigger screen, three views, and full-screen navigation.

6. Does the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas come with a hands-free driving system?

Front angle view of Tourmaline Blue Metallic 2023 VW Atlas midsize SUV
Tourmaline Blue 2023 VW Atlas | Volkswagen

Yes, the Atlas comes with the IQ.Drive system on all SEL models and above. This feature allows for semi-autonomous driving with your hands on the wheel. The IQ.Drive system combines adaptive cruise control, lane-centering, and blind-spot monitoring to keep you in the lane and do some of the driving for you.

Does this SUV have what you want? These six features/qualities can make it easy to choose the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas. If you’re shopping in the midsize three-row SUV market, this VW model should be high on your list.

Next, check out the most reliable luxury SUV brand, or watch the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas video below:

This article was updated on 12/8/2022.

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