Did you know that the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line can tow up to 5,000 pounds? This impressive capability puts it on par with some pickup trucks, making it a versatile choice for families who need both passenger space and hauling power.
Introduction
A Refreshing Take on the Family Hauler
The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line represents the pinnacle of Volkswagen’s three-row SUV lineup. As families increasingly turn to SUVs for their daily transportation needs, the Atlas stands out with its combination of spaciousness, refinement, and German engineering. This top-tier trim level builds on the Atlas’s solid foundation with premium features and styling touches that elevate it above the average family hauler.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore every aspect of the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line, from its refreshed exterior design to its advanced safety features. We’ll delve into the driving experience, interior comfort, and technology offerings to help you determine if this premium SUV is the right choice for your family’s needs.
Exterior Design
Subtle Refinements and Modern Touches
The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line receives a subtle but effective exterior refresh that brings it in line with Volkswagen’s current design language. The most noticeable changes are at the front and rear of the vehicle:
- New LED headlights with a distinctive light signature
- Available grille-width light bar that creates a striking nighttime appearance
- Redesigned front bumper with more prominent air intakes
- Rear LED lighting with a body-wide light strip
- R-Line specific bumpers and side skirts for a sportier look
- 21-inch alloy wheels unique to the R-Line trim
These updates give the Atlas a more modern and premium appearance, helping it stand out in the crowded midsize SUV segment. The R-Line treatment, in particular, adds a touch of sportiness to the Atlas’s otherwise conservative design.
The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line maintains its boxy, upright profile, which contributes to its excellent interior space. While it may not be the most aerodynamic shape, it prioritizes function over form – a choice that many families will appreciate.
Color options for the Atlas SEL Premium R-Line include:
- Pure White
- Aurora Red Metallic
- Platinum Gray Metallic
- Tourmaline Blue Metallic
- Deep Black Pearl
Each color complements the Atlas’s design well, with the metallic options particularly highlighting the vehicle’s body lines and R-Line accents.
Interior Design and Features
Upscale Cabin with Premium Amenities
Step inside the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line, and you’re greeted by a cabin that blends functionality with upscale touches. The interior receives significant updates for 2024, addressing some of the criticisms of the previous model’s somewhat plain design.
Key interior features include:
- Premium leather seating surfaces
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated second-row seats
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- Panoramic sunroof
- Ambient interior lighting
The dashboard design is clean and modern, with a new 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system taking center stage. This larger screen is a significant upgrade from the previous 8-inch unit, providing better visibility and easier access to various functions.
The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line also features a fully digital instrument cluster, which Volkswagen calls the Digital Cockpit Pro. This customizable display allows drivers to prioritize the information they find most important, from traditional gauges to navigation maps.
Material quality is generally good throughout the cabin, with soft-touch surfaces in most areas where occupants are likely to make contact. However, some hard plastics remain in lower areas, a reminder that the Atlas is still positioned as a mainstream rather than a luxury vehicle.
Haptic Touch Interface: A Double-Edged Sword
One of the more controversial aspects of the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line‘s interior is its increased use of haptic touch controls. This includes touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel and climate control panel.
While these controls give the interior a sleek, modern appearance, they can be frustrating to use while driving. The lack of physical feedback means drivers often need to take their eyes off the road to ensure they’ve activated the correct function.
The new shifter design is also a point of contention. It’s a small, toggle-like control that some drivers may find less intuitive than a traditional gear lever or rotary dial.
Despite these ergonomic challenges, the overall interior of the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line is a comfortable and well-appointed space that should serve families well on long road trips or daily commutes.
Powertrain and Performance
2.0-Liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: A Smooth Performer
For 2024, Volkswagen has simplified the Atlas’s powertrain lineup. The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line now comes exclusively with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This is a version of the EA888 engine found in other Volkswagen products, including the Golf R and GTI, but tuned specifically for the Atlas’s needs.
Key engine specifications:
- Displacement: 2.0 liters
- Configuration: Inline-4, turbocharged
- Horsepower: 269 hp @ 5,500 rpm
- Torque: 273 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
This engine replaces both the previous base four-cylinder and the optional V6, striking a balance between power and efficiency. While some may miss the smoothness of the V6, the new turbocharged four-cylinder provides ample power for most driving situations.
The 8-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth and responsive, though it can occasionally hunt for gears when climbing hills or during passing maneuvers.
All 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line models come standard with 4Motion all-wheel drive, providing excellent traction in various weather conditions.
Driving Dynamics: A Blend of Comfort and Capability
On the road, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line prioritizes comfort over sportiness, which is appropriate for its role as a family hauler. The suspension is tuned to provide a smooth ride, absorbing road imperfections well without feeling floaty or disconnected.
Steering is light and easy, making the Atlas manageable in tight parking situations despite its size. However, some drivers may find it lacks feedback, especially at higher speeds.
While not designed for sporty driving, the Atlas handles competently for its size. Body roll is well-controlled in corners, and the all-wheel-drive system provides good grip in various conditions.
The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line also offers several driving modes, including:
- Normal
- Sport
- Eco
- Snow
- Off-Road
- Custom
These modes adjust various vehicle parameters, including throttle response, transmission shift points, and steering weight, allowing drivers to tailor the Atlas’s behavior to their preferences or driving conditions.
Fuel Economy
Fuel Efficiency: A Trade-Off for Performance
Given its size and power, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line delivers reasonable, if not class-leading, fuel economy. According to EPA estimates, the all-wheel-drive Atlas with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine achieves:
- City: 19 mpg
- Highway: 25 mpg
- Combined: 21 mpg
These figures are competitive within the three-row SUV segment, especially considering the Atlas’s spacious interior and powerful engine. However, they fall short of some hybrid competitors, which can achieve significantly better fuel economy, particularly in city driving.
The Atlas’s 19.5-gallon fuel tank provides a decent range, allowing for long trips without frequent fuel stops. Based on the combined EPA rating, drivers can expect approximately 410 miles of range on a full tank.
To maximize fuel efficiency in the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line, drivers can:
- Use the Eco driving mode for improved efficiency
- Maintain steady speeds and avoid rapid acceleration
- Keep tires properly inflated
- Remove unnecessary weight from the vehicle
- Use cruise control on highways
While not a fuel-sipper, the Atlas’s efficiency should be adequate for most families, balancing performance and economy in a practical package.
Safety and Technology
Comprehensive Safety Suite: Peace of Mind on the Road
Safety is a top priority for family vehicles, and the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line doesn’t disappoint in this area. It comes standard with Volkswagen’s IQ.Drive suite of advanced driver assistance systems, which includes:
- Forward Collision Warning with Autonomous Emergency Braking
- Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert
- Lane Keeping System
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go
- Park Distance Control
- Area View 360-degree camera system
These features work together to provide a comprehensive safety net, helping to prevent accidents and mitigate their severity when they do occur.
The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line also boasts excellent crash test ratings. It received a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), with five stars in frontal and side crash tests and four stars in the rollover test.
Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems: Enhancing the Driving Experience
Beyond basic safety features, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line offers several advanced technologies that enhance the driving experience:
- Dynamic Road Sign Display: Recognizes and displays road signs on the instrument cluster
- Light Assist: Automatically switches between high and low beams
- Park Assist: Helps steer the vehicle into parallel or perpendicular parking spaces
- Travel Assist: Combines adaptive cruise control and lane keeping for semi-autonomous highway driving
The infotainment system in the Atlas SEL Premium R-Line is also packed with features:
- 12-inch touchscreen display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Navigation system with real-time traffic updates
- Wireless smartphone charging
- Fender premium audio system with 12 speakers
These technology features help make the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line a thoroughly modern family vehicle, providing convenience, entertainment, and enhanced safety for all occupants.
Practicality and Cargo Space
Spacious Interior: Accommodating Families and Cargo
One of the standout features of the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line is its exceptionally spacious interior. With three rows of seating and generous cargo capacity, it’s well-suited to handle the needs of large families or those who frequently transport gear.
Key interior dimensions:
- Passenger volume: 154.0 cubic feet
- Cargo volume (behind third row): 20.6 cubic feet
- Cargo volume (behind second row): 55.5 cubic feet
- Cargo volume (behind first row): 96.8 cubic feet
These figures put the Atlas at the top of its class for interior space. The boxy exterior design translates to a cavernous interior that can accommodate passengers and cargo with ease.
The second-row seats in the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line can slide fore and aft, allowing for easy adjustment of legroom between the second and third rows. They also tilt and slide forward for easy access to the third row.
Throughout the cabin, you’ll find numerous storage compartments, including a large center console, door pockets, and cupholders in all three rows. The SEL Premium R-Line trim also includes a hands-free power liftgate, making it easy to access the cargo area when your hands are full.
Third-Row Seating: Functionality for Everyone
Unlike some midsize SUVs where the third row is best suited for children, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line offers a third row that can comfortably accommodate adults. Key third-row features include:
- Easy access thanks to sliding and tilting second-row seats
- Dedicated climate control vents
- USB-C charging ports
- Cup holders
The third-row seats also fold flat into the floor when not in use, maximizing cargo space. This flexibility allows the Atlas to transition easily from people-hauler to cargo-carrier, making it a versatile choice for families with varying needs.
Pricing and Value
Premium Price Tag: Justified by Features and Refinement
As the top trim level in the Atlas lineup, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line commands a premium price. With a starting MSRP of $54,315, it’s positioned at the higher end of the mainstream three-row SUV segment.
However, this price includes a comprehensive list of standard features that would be optional on many competitors. Some key standard features include:
- 4Motion all-wheel drive
- Panoramic sunroof
- Leather seating surfaces
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated second-row seats
- Fender premium audio system
- 21-inch alloy wheels
When compared to similarly equipped competitors, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line offers competitive value. Its combination of space, features, and refinement justifies its price point for many buyers.
It’s worth noting that lower trim levels of the Atlas offer many of the same core strengths at a lower price point. Buyers who don’t need all the premium features of the SEL Premium R-Line may find better value in mid-range trims.
Competition
Facing Off Against the Best in the Midsize SUV Segment
The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line competes in a crowded and highly competitive segment. Some of its key rivals include:
- Honda Pilot
- Toyota Highlander
- Kia Telluride
- Hyundai Palisade
- Ford Explorer
- Chevrolet Traverse
Each of these competitors offers its own mix of strengths and weaknesses. The Atlas stands out with its spacious interior, refined driving dynamics, and premium feel in the SEL Premium R-Line trim.
Compared to its rivals, the Atlas offers:
- More interior space than most competitors
- A smoother, more car-like ride than some truck-based SUVs
- A more premium interior in the SEL Premium R-Line trim than some mainstream competitors
- Stronger towing capacity than some car-based crossovers
However, it falls short in some areas:
- Fuel economy is not as good as some hybrid competitors
- The infotainment system, while improved, isn’t as intuitive as some rivals
- Some competitors offer more powerful engine options
Overall, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line holds its own in this competitive segment, offering a unique blend of space, refinement, and features that will appeal to many buyers.
Final Verdict
A Solid Choice for Families Seeking Comfort and Capability
The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line presents a compelling option for families in need of a spacious, well-equipped three-row SUV. Its strengths lie in its cavernous interior, smooth ride, and comprehensive list of features.
Pros:
- Exceptionally spacious interior with adult-friendly third row
- Smooth, comfortable ride
- Comprehensive safety features
- Premium interior materials and finishes in SEL Premium R-Line trim
- Strong towing capacity for a crossover SUV
Cons:
- Fuel economy lags behind some competitors, especially hybrids
- Haptic touch controls can be frustrating to use while driving
- Some may miss the availability of a V6 engine option
Balancing Refinement with Practicality
The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line successfully balances the practical needs of a family hauler with the refinement expected in a premium vehicle. It offers more space than many luxury-branded competitors at a lower price point, making it an attractive option for those who prioritize interior room and features over badge prestige.
While it may not be the most exciting vehicle to drive, its comfortable ride and easy maneuverability make it well-suited to the daily tasks of family life. The comprehensive safety features provide peace of mind, while the premium amenities in the SEL Premium R-Line trim add a touch of luxury to every journey.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line offers a well-rounded package for families seeking a spacious, comfortable, and feature-rich three-row SUV. Its combination of interior space, refined ride, and premium amenities make it a strong contender in the competitive midsize SUV segment.
While it may not excel in any one area, the Atlas’s balanced approach to family transportation will appeal to many buyers. Its spacious interior and flexible seating arrangements make it particularly well-suited to growing families
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