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The biggest complaint about the Volkswagen Atlas isn’t a deal breaker, especially for families. It has a potential drawback that doesn’t outweigh the positive features, such as an abundance of passenger and cargo space. See what the biggest 2022 Volkswagen Atlas problem is. 

The biggest 2022 Volkswagen Atlas problem doesn’t hurt families 

A 2022 Volkswagen Atlas full-size SUV model driving on a highway near trees with autumn-colored leaves
2023 Volkswagen Atlas | Volkswagen of America, Inc. Newspress Limited

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas is a little slow. According to Edmunds, it has a lackluster acceleration, even with the option V6 engine. The standard option is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 235 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. 

You can upgrade to the 3.6-liter V6 engine for 276 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 8.1 seconds. Gasp, that’s about average! So, the Atlas isn’t the sportiest family SUV out there. 

However, it can still pass others on the highway and merge into traffic just fine. Plus, it feels great for its larger size. It’s smooth, feels well-composed around curves, and has confident breaks. It’s an easy daily driver with plenty of room for the whole family. 

Is the 2022 Atlas a good family SUV? 

Yes, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas is an excellent SUV for families. It keeps everyone comfortable with a smooth ride and quiet interior. Plus, the second row can be equipped with captain’s chairs. 

Critics are pleased by the tri-zone automatic climate control’s system ability to keep the entire cabin comfortable.

The third row is large enough to accommodate adults, so your kids will have plenty of space to stretch out. Also, the second row slides forward and back, adding a level of practicality for cargo and passenger needs. 

You can access up to 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and up to 96.8 cubes in total. The seats fold flat to create a level loading floor, and the hands-free liftgate is a convenient perk. 

There are plenty of storage bins, cubbies, and cup holders for storage. If you need extra room, the Atlas can tow up to 5,000 lbs. This matches rivals. 

The Atlas can be equipped with all-wheel drive, but it costs about $1,900 to add. This feels a little steep. However, it’s useful if you live in areas with inclement winter weather conditions. 

How much does the 2022 Atlas cost? 

2022 Volkswagen Atlas interior
2022 Volkswagen Atlas interior | Volkswagen

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas price starts at $34,335, and the top-spec V6 SEL Premium R-Line takes the cost up to $51,505. The standard model is value-packed. 

It kicks things off with keyless entry and ignition, a power liftgate, simulated leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, rear window shades, a digital gauge cluster, and a wi-fi hotspot. 

Standard safety features include forward collision mitigation, blind spot monitoring, and rear-cross traffic alert. 

Moving up in trim levels provides access to wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, tri-zone climate control, ventilated seats, a wireless charging pad, adaptive cruise control, leather upholstery, ambient interior lighting, and a 360-degree camera system. 

The 2022 Atlas might not speed around traffic, but it gets you from point A to point B extremely comfortably. It’s a value-packed option with plenty of space for family adventures.