Model Year Comparison
Yes. Volkswagen calls the 2027 Atlas a second-generation SUV, with new sheet metal, a rebuilt cabin, and a stronger turbocharged engine. The seven-seat layout and spacious third row carry over.
Below, you can see how the new Atlas lines up against the 2026 model, point by point.
Shop Atlas Inventory2027 model-year notice: Volkswagen has published trims, engine output, and key features for the 2027 Atlas. The automaker labels these details preliminary, and EPA fuel economy estimates have not been released. Final specifications can change before vehicles reach showrooms.
Specifications come from Volkswagen of America's 2027 Atlas debut release, 2027 Atlas trim announcement, and 2026 Atlas press kit.
Almost everything you see and touch has changed. Volkswagen kept the Atlas's size and three-row layout, then rebuilt the design, the cabin, and the tech around them.
The new body looks more upscale, and the engine makes more power than any Atlas before it.
The interior moves up a class, and the SE trim gets more standard equipment.
Your Timing, Your Call
Both years give you three rows, a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, and available 4Motion. It mostly comes down to timing and which features you care about.
Option 1
Option 2
Please note: Volkswagen describes its 2027 Atlas details as preliminary. Arrival timing and the stock on our lot vary, so contact Safford Volkswagen West Richmond for current availability.
The Two-Row Sibling
Want the Atlas look without the third row? The five-seat Atlas Cross Sport is also redesigned for 2027. Volkswagen calls it the most powerful Atlas Cross Sport ever, with the same 282-hp turbo engine and 8-speed automatic in FWD or 4Motion AWD form.
VW has confirmed real wood décor, a heated multi-function steering wheel with paddle shifters, and an available 15-inch display. Nappa leather and front massage seats are available too.
Still to come
Volkswagen hasn't published full trim details for the 2027 Atlas Cross Sport yet. We'll share them as soon as they're official.
Image shown is a 2026 Volkswagen Atlas.
Our store sits right on Midlothian Turnpike, so plenty of Atlas test drives cover Chippenham Parkway, Powhite Parkway, and Route 288. Those are the roads that carry school runs and weekend sports across Chesterfield County.
For bigger trips, I-64 leads west toward the Blue Ridge and east toward the coast. Both Atlas model years give you room for seven, and 4Motion is available on every trim.
Plan a Test DriveWhichever model year you choose, these tools help you get the details sorted before your visit.
See trims, colors, and photos for every Atlas currently at Safford Volkswagen West Richmond.
Start your credit application online and come in knowing where you stand.
Share a few details about your current vehicle to see what it could put toward an Atlas.
Our sales team can walk you through 2027 Atlas timing and help you compare it with a 2026 on the lot.
The 2027 Atlas starts a new generation. It gets new exterior styling, a redesigned interior with real wood décor and ambient lighting, a 282-hp turbo engine, and more standard equipment, including a power liftgate and front and rear Park Distance Control.
It has more horsepower. The 2027 engine makes 282 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, compared with 269 hp and 273 lb-ft for the 2026 model. Both use a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and an 8-speed automatic.
Volkswagen has announced four trims: SE, SE w/ Technology, SEL R-Line, and SEL Premium R-Line. The two R-Line trims come standard with 4Motion all-wheel drive.
Yes. The 2027 Atlas is still a seven-seat SUV, and Volkswagen says the new MQB evo platform keeps the roomy third row. Second-row captain's chairs remain available.
SE w/ Technology and higher trims come with a factory trailer hitch and are rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs with a braked trailer. The SE includes 2,000-lb trailer preparation.
No. The 2027 Atlas launches with the turbocharged 2.0-liter gas engine only. Volkswagen has said a hybrid variant is planned for the Atlas's midcycle refresh.
Volkswagen scheduled the 2027 Atlas launch for fall 2026. Arrival timing varies by trim and allocation, so contact our sales team for the latest on incoming vehicles.
Yes. The five-seat Atlas Cross Sport is redesigned for 2027 and uses the same 282-hp turbo engine with FWD or 4Motion AWD. Full trim details have not been published yet.
Visit us on Midlothian Turnpike in Richmond, or call 804-604-6135, to see a 2026 Atlas in person and get updates on 2027 arrivals.