2018 VW Atlas

VW ‘carefully’ considering production of Atlas Tanoak bakkie

When Volkswagen whipped the covers off its Atlas Tanoak concept in March 2018, it said that it had no plans to put the unibody bakkie into production (although the brand did add that it was “keen to gauge the reactions of buyers and media”). Now, the automaker says it is still “carefully” studying the business case.

Speaking to Autocar, Hinrich Woebcken, who holds the role of CEO for Volkswagen in the North American region, seemed positive but noncommittal.

“It fits the brand well, because we want to get more American in the US, but it’s something we have to look at carefully,” he told the British publication.

“It’s a very patriotic segment, which American manufacturers dominate,” Woebcken added.

Unlike the Amarok, which runs on a ladder-frame chassis, the Atlas Tanoak concept rides on the Wolfsburg-based automaker’s latest modular passenger vehicle architecture, and appears closely related to the seven-seater Atlas.

Named after a species of tree native to the Pacific Coast in the United States, the Atlas Tanoak concept measures 5 438 mm long, 2 029 mm wide and 1 844 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 3 259 mm. That makes it a little larger than the Amarok, which measures 5 254 mm long, with 3 095 mm between its axles.

The double-cab bakkie seats five and is powered by a 3,6-litre V6 petrol engine (worth 206 kW and 360 N.m), mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and 4Motion all-wheel drive. VW says it will hit 100 km/h from standstill in around 8,5 seconds.

The concept, which rides on new 20-inch alloys wrapped in 275/55 rubber, also has a mode that provides a low-range gear reduction.

http://www.carmag.co.za/news/vw-carefully-considering-production-of-atlas-tanoak-bakkie/
 
Tuner gives VW Atlas more power, improved off-road ability

APR, a tuner based in the United States, has gone to work on the Volkswagen Atlas, giving the seven-seater SUV more power and improved off-road ability.

The Alabama-based firm fitted a factory turbocharger from the Golf R to the SUV’s 2,0-litre TSI engine, before adding its own ECU upgrade along with a carbon-fibre intake system, a new turbo inlet pipe (and turbo muffler delete) and custom exhaust system.

The result? Fresh peak outputs of around 260 kW and 475 N.m (up from the stock 175 kW and 350 N.m), which means this four-pot outpunches even the flagship 3,6-litre VR6 engine. In addition to these powertrain modifications, APR says it installed its six-piston 350 mm performance braking upgrade.

The fitment of new suspension components raises the Atlas a further 38 mm over standard, while new lightweight S01 20×9-inch forged wheels (illuminated by wheel well lights) are wrapped in Toyo Open Country M/T 275/55/20 rubber.

A recent report out of Australia suggested that VW in South Africa, the United Kingdom and Australia were “reconsidering” importing the Volkswagen Atlas after all three markets initially “didn’t want” the seven-seater SUV, but Volkswagen SA has since told CARmag.co.za that it has no plans to bring the Atlas to local shores.

http://www.carmag.co.za/news/tuner-gives-vw-atlas-more-power-and-improved-off-road-ability/

IMG_9131.JPG

IMG_9132.JPG
 
Volkswagen Atlas Basecamp Concept

Volkswagen of America, Inc. introduced the Atlas Basecamp Concept, which showcases a few of the many ways that the capable Volkswagen Atlas can be enhanced for trail seekers. Featuring a custom body, lift kit, custom wheels, all-terrain tires, roof rack with bike mounts, and LED light bars, the Volkswagen Atlas Basecamp Concept is ready for adventure.

The Basecamp Concept - designed with endurance mountain biking in mind-is the brainchild of Alex Earle, Exterior Design Manager at the Volkswagen Design Center California and avid cyclist. "The Basecamp Concept brings a go-anywhere attitude to the brand that is already synonymous with road-trip culture," said Earle. "Whether you are taking on a series of challenging single-tracks with your favorite mountain bike or enjoying a relaxing evening under the night sky, the versatility of the Basecamp Concept provides ideal mobile solutions for just about any adventure."

Using a Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium as the canvas, the Basecamp Concept is painted Platinum Gray and Black Uni with a matte finish and orange accents. The SEL Premium trim comes standard with a 3.6-liter VR6® engine making 276 hp and an eight-speed transmission, paired with Volkswagen 4Motion® all-wheel drive with Drive Mode Selection. A set of fifteen52 Traverse MX Concept wheels debut on the Basecamp Concept and are expected go into series production at fifteen52 this fall. The wheels are wrapped in 265/70R17 all-terrain tires.

https://www.netcarshow.com/volkswagen/2019-atlas_basecamp_concept/

Atlas 1.jpgAtlas 2.jpgAtlas 3.jpgAtlas 4.jpg
 
VW Atlas Basecamp Concept is a VR6-powered custom SUV

Meet the Volkswagen Atlas Basecamp Concept, a show car featuring custom body parts, a suspension lift kit, bespoke wheels (complete with all-terrain tyres), a roof rack with bike mounts and even off-roading light bars.

Set to debut at the 2019 New York International Auto Show (before fittingly moving on to the 2019 SEMA Show), the Basecamp Concept is the brainchild of Alex Earle, exterior design manager at the Volkswagen Design Centre in California (and avid cyclist).

Using the Atlas SEL Premium as the base, the Basecamp Concept is painted in a mix of "Platinum Grey" and "Black Uni", complete with a matte finish and a smattering of orange accents. Power comes from the standard 3,6-litre VR6 engine, driving all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission.

A set of “fifteen52” Traverse MX Concept wheels are used, wrapped in 265/70 R17 all-terrain rubber. Additional accessories include a custom body kit by Air Design, an H&R suspension lift kit (with coilover springs that raise the ride height around 38 mm), a Front Runner Slimline II roof rack system (complete with bike holders), off-road LED bars (fore and aft), as well as various protective interior add-ons.

https://www.carmag.co.za/news/new-models/vw-atlas-basecamp-concept-is-a-vr6-powered-custom-suv/
 
It's bigger than a Touareg. Like a BMW X7.
 
Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

Volkswagen of America, Inc. unveiled the all-new 2020 Atlas Cross Sport at the company's state-of-the-art factory in Chattanooga, TN. The five-seater midsize SUV features a dramatic, coupe-like design as well as advanced connectivity and driver-assistance systems.

The Cross Sport is the first fruit of Volkswagen's strategy of doubling up in the biggest SUV segments, a plan that will be repeated in the compact SUV segment with a vehicle that will fit in the lineup beneath the Tiguan.

"Building off the success of the Atlas seven-seater midsize SUV, we see an opportunity for a five-seater model that offers even more style and almost as much interior space," said Scott Keogh, CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. "We look forward to entering this growing segment with the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, which offers outstanding Volkswagen technology, driver-assist features, style, and value."

Overall, the Cross Sport is 2.8 inches shorter than the current Atlas, and is 2.3 inches lower. It is 78.3 inches wide and rides on the same 117.3-inch wheelbase, which is the reason for the vehicle's generous interior space. The Cross Sport has an outstanding 111.8 cubic feet of passenger space, with 40.3 cu ft of luggage space behind the second-row seats and 77.8 cu ft with the second row folded.

Externally, the VW Atlas Cross Sport has distinctive styling that builds on the basics of the Atlas but takes it to a new level. At the front, the Cross Sport gets an upscale three-bar chrome grille and a distinctive new light signature that extends the width of the middle bar. An aggressive new front bumper and subtly sculpted hood complete the front end treatment that looks remarkably close to the stunning concept that was shown at the 2018 New York Auto Show.


1D45D0BF-78A7-4A4E-87A6-A4BCEE70FE9F.jpeg425D7E9F-F9B4-48DB-99ED-F4A9B6C3CD00.jpeg896ABE64-B84A-4A20-9705-D603236583BC.jpegFC388D30-95C3-403D-A39C-875946A5918E.jpeg34DD464C-BC12-469E-A316-24F0163F5ABB.jpegBD719FBA-BCBE-49E0-97EE-AF5DF40F5398.jpeg37B9776A-CEEC-4B2C-ADFF-82B1B40ABAB9.jpeg
 
New Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport unveiled with coupé-like roofline

Volkswagen in North America has taken the covers off its new Atlas Cross Sport, a five-seater SUV featuring a coupé-like roofline.

The fresh-faced Cross Sport (following 2018's concept of the same name) is some 70 mm shorter than the seven-seater Atlas despite sharing its 2 980 mm wheelbase. That, says VW, results in a properly spacious cabin and luggage compartment.

In terms of exterior styling, the new Atlas Cross Sport is set apart from its larger sibling by its three-bar grille and distinctive lighting signature. There’s also a new front bumper and a “subtly sculpted” bonnet.

In profile, the Cross Sport features a steeply raked rear pillar and rear hatch, while new lights and a model-specific rear bumper are employed round back. Of course, VW will offer the newcomer in R-Line trim, adding more aggressively styled bumpers, piano black trim up front and 21-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the Cross Sport receives further upgrades over the Atlas in the form of a redesigned steering wheel, stitching accents on the door inserts and seats, and various new technology features (such as wireless smartphone charging). Top-spec models will boast items such as heated rear seats, rear sunshades and a 12-speaker Fender premium audio system.

 
VW's Fortuner Rival Updated

VW’s intermediate-sized SUV adds some new bits.
Since its global launch in 2017, Atlas has been hugely successful, with most of its demand coming from North America and China.

Built on VW’s advanced MQB platform, it is the largest vehicle evolved from this Golf-sized structure. Positioned between Tiguan (which it shares a platform with) and Touareg, the Atlas would compete with Fortuner, if it were available in South Africa.


AF921D9A-3774-4C86-9CAB-21F9BC8FF226.jpeg4DC9E5C5-2DF4-4FAB-83A5-8F66741F34F6.jpeg4E88498A-A986-444E-829C-A7BC5520A780.jpeg
 
Volkswagen Atlas

Volkswagen of America, Inc. unveiled the new 2021 VW Atlas at the 2020 Chicago Auto Show. The refreshed seven-seater offers a bolder design as well as interior upgrades, advanced technology and new driver-assistance features while still maintaining the spacious interior and user-friendly infotainment and ergonomics that made the outgoing model so popular.

"The Atlas has been a huge success story for Volkswagen of America, helping us to position the brand with a greater emphasis on the family-friendly SUVs that consumers are buying," said Scott Keogh, president and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America. "This refreshed model brings all the functionality of the previous model, and ups the ante with new technology and more style."

The refreshed Volkswagen Atlas maintains the same underpinnings of the successful outgoing model, but is nearly three inches longer, thanks to new front and rear bumper designs. Following in the footsteps of the Atlas Cross Sport, a bold three-bar grille extends into the front light signature creating a more stylish presence. The refreshed model features new headlight and taillight designs that include standard LED lighting. This, along with the sculpted front and rear bumpers, gives the Atlas a more aggressive stance. The R-line® trims up the ante with a unique bumper design, side skirts, and available 20- or 21-inch aluminum-alloy wheels (dependent on trim), as well as signature R-line badging.

The interior receives upgrades over the previous model, offering a more connected and comfortable experience. Upgrades include a new steering wheel, available contrast-stitching on the leather seating surfaces and door trim, and an 8-inch Composition Media infotainment system on all models but the base S trim. Available features include the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, Fender® Premium Audio System, ambient lighting, 3-zone Climatronic® climate control, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, wireless charging, and remote start.

https://www.netcarshow.com/volkswagen/2021-atlas/

Volkswagen-Atlas-2021-800-0a.jpgVolkswagen-Atlas-2021-800-0f.jpgVolkswagen-Atlas-2021-800-01.jpgVolkswagen-Atlas-2021-800-09 (1).jpgVolkswagen-Atlas-2021-800-10.jpgVolkswagen-Atlas-2021-800-11.jpg
 
Volkswagen Atlas Tanoak won’t go into production, hints SA-born exec

A South African executive working for Volkswagen in North America has suggested the Atlas Tanoak concept won’t make it to production.

Speaking to Autoblog, Hein Schafer, senior vice-president for product and strategy at VW Group of America, hinted the bakkie concept was highly unlikely to become a production reality.


tanoak.jpg
 
The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Is Fine But Also Proof Everything's Madness

VW’s idea to make a sportier, less dependent on practicality and space SUV is not necessarily a bad idea, but if they’re going to bother, they really should have pushed it further, because, as it is, who really gives a ****?

And, as far as this thing being great for single people or couples or empty nesters or whatever, it’s time to splash some water on your face and wake the **** up.

Sure, if you’re a couple who regularly refinishes furniture or has two to four big-ass dogs, maybe a pair of Great Danes that you dress up like Sherlock Hound and Woofson, then perhaps this thing would be a good choice.

But for normal couples looking for a car? What’s wrong with a Golf, or even better, a GTI? That’d be a way better car to get after the kids are gone! It’s still plenty practical, and actually will be engaging to drive!

Break away from this stupid spell of SUV everything, because that’s precisely the madness that causes **** like this, a fractionally smaller version of a huge SUV marketed, bafflingly, as a sort of rakish little runabout.

It’s not. The Atlas Cross Sport is an Atlas with one less row of seats and a slightly more slanted roofline. That’s it. Don’t be fooled into buying a gas-sucking huge, numb-driving beast (though admittedly fine and practical) just because that’s what everyone else is doing.

You’re better than that, and your car can be, too.


Atlas 1.JPGAtlas 2.JPGAtlas 3.JPGAtlas 4.JPG
 
Volkswagen Atlas Basecamp

Volkswagen of America, Inc. introduced the Basecamp™ accessory line for Atlas models. Available individually, or as a set in the Basecamp styling package, custom body cladding elements create a more rugged overland look. Slated for Spring of 2020, the accessory line also includes unique off-road inspired wheels, that when equipped with all-terrain tires, bolster the versatility of the already capable Atlas.


Volkswagen-Atlas_Basecamp-2021-800-01.jpgVolkswagen-Atlas_Basecamp-2021-800-02.jpgVolkswagen-Atlas_Basecamp-2021-800-0b.jpgVolkswagen-Atlas_Basecamp-2021-800-0c.jpgVolkswagen-Atlas_Basecamp-2021-800-11.jpgVolkswagen-Atlas_Basecamp-2021-800-13.jpgVolkswagen-Atlas_Basecamp-2021-800-15.jpgVolkswagen-Atlas_Basecamp-2021-800-16.jpgVolkswagen-Atlas_Basecamp-2021-800-18.jpg
 
Top
Sign up to the MyBroadband newsletter
X