Volkswagen Atlas SEL 4MOTION: A Real-World Performance Review

The Volkswagen Atlas SEL 4MOTION blends power, comfort, and advanced features to deliver an impressive all-wheel-drive experience. Whether you’re navigating through city traffic or cruising on highways, this SUV has the versatility to handle it all. Ready to find out how it performs in real-world conditions? Keep reading to discover how the Atlas SEL 4MOTION excels in everyday driving scenarios, plus expert insights from industry pros.

When it comes to family SUVs that blend power, comfort, and cutting-edge technology, the Volkswagen Atlas SEL 4MOTION stands out as an exceptional choice. This all-wheel-drive SUV isn’t just designed for show—it offers real-world performance that can handle everything from city traffic to long highway trips. But how does it truly perform in everyday driving scenarios?

We had the opportunity to test the Atlas SEL 4MOTION in various conditions, from congested city streets to open highways, and even in unpredictable weather. Along the way, we spoke with experts in the automotive field, Paul Jacky Scott and Alan J. Smith, to get their insights on the vehicle’s real-world performance. Let’s dive into our hands-on review.

Performance Review: Is the Atlas SEL 4MOTION a True Performer?

All-Wheel Drive Capability

4MOTION AWD with Active Control: Conquering Urban Streets and Highways

One of the highlights of the Volkswagen Atlas SEL 4MOTION is its 4MOTION AWD system with Active Control, which provides superior traction and stability, ensuring you feel confident no matter the driving conditions. During our testing, we found that the system made a significant difference, especially when driving through wet city streets or dealing with heavy rain on the highway.

Paul Jacky Scott, a veteran car expert, shared his thoughts on the 4MOTION system: “I was particularly impressed with how the Atlas handled a quick downpour we ran into on the highway. You don’t realize how much AWD can make a difference until you’re on wet roads and feel the added stability. It really inspires confidence.”

Whether driving in city traffic, through a light drizzle, or on rougher terrains, the Active Control system in the Atlas SEL adapts to your needs. It can adjust to multiple driving conditions, allowing you to switch between modes for optimized performance.

Driving Mode Selection: Tailoring Your Experience

The Driving Mode Selection feature allows you to choose from Eco, Normal, and Sport modes, providing flexibility for different driving situations. In the dense urban traffic, we found the Eco mode particularly beneficial, helping conserve fuel while maintaining a smooth ride.

“Eco mode is fantastic in city traffic—it reduces throttle sensitivity and helps conserve fuel,” said Alan J. Smith, automotive journalist and enthusiast. “But when we hit the open highway, switching to Sport mode made a noticeable difference in performance. The acceleration is sharper, and the overall driving experience feels more engaging.”

Smooth and Efficient Transmission

8-Speed Automatic Transmission: Shifting with Precision

The 8-speed automatic transmission in the Atlas SEL offers a smooth and efficient ride. During our time in heavy traffic and on the highway, the shifts were seamless, making driving feel effortless. Whether you’re accelerating from a standstill or merging onto a fast-moving highway, the transmission responds quickly and smoothly.

“The 8-speed transmission does an excellent job of optimizing fuel economy while offering smooth shifts,” explained Paul Jacky Scott. “You’ll rarely notice the gear changes, which is a testament to how well Volkswagen has refined this system.”

Efficient Fuel Management

Engine Start-Stop System: Fuel Savings in the City

For those long waits at red lights in the city, the Engine Start-Stop System is a game-changer. It automatically turns off the engine when you’re stationary and restarts it when you press the accelerator. This feature significantly improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions—ideal for city commutes where frequent stops are inevitable.

Alan J. Smith remarked, “During our drive through the city, the engine start-stop system was a real benefit. It kept the fuel efficiency high without sacrificing power when we needed it.”

Engine Options: Power and Performance

The Volkswagen Atlas SEL 4MOTION comes equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged engine that delivers a solid 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This engine, combined with the 4MOTION AWD system, provides plenty of power for tackling urban streets or long highway stretches with ease.

Engine Specs:

• Transmission: 8-speed Automatic with Tiptronic
• Drive Type: All-Wheel Drive (4MOTION)
• Power: 269 horsepower
• Torque: 273 lb-ft
• Fuel Type: Gas
• Price: Starting at $49,795

The combination of this powerful engine and the 4MOTION AWD system ensures that the Atlas SEL delivers a comfortable and dynamic driving experience, whether you’re navigating city traffic or cruising along a scenic highway.

Exterior and Interior Features: Style, Comfort, and Innovation

The Volkswagen Atlas SEL 4MOTION doesn’t just perform well—it also looks great and offers a wealth of features that enhance both its practicality and appeal. From its stylish exterior to its premium interior, this SUV has it all.

Stylish Exterior Design

The 20-inch alloy wheels are not only visually striking but also improve performance with all-season tires that offer reliable grip across a variety of conditions. The adaptive front lighting system ensures excellent visibility in low-light conditions, while the hands-free liftgate makes loading and unloading cargo a breeze—perfect for those times when your hands are full.

Luxurious Interior Features

Inside, the Atlas SEL impresses with premium leather seating, providing a comfortable and upscale atmosphere. The 8-way power-adjustable front seats with lumbar support allow for a custom fit, while the Climatronic Three-Zone Automatic Climate Control ensures every passenger enjoys their ideal temperature.

Paul Jacky Scott shared his thoughts on the interior: “When you’re stuck in traffic for hours, these comfort features—like the power-adjustable seats and multi-zone climate control—make a world of difference. Volkswagen has truly thought of everything when it comes to comfort.”

Advanced Technology

From the Discover Pro System with a 12-inch touchscreen to the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), the Atlas SEL offers advanced tech that enhances your driving experience. The head-up display keeps essential information within your line of sight, while the multi-color ambient lighting allows you to set the perfect mood inside the cabin.

Conclusion: The Volkswagen Atlas SEL 4MOTION Shines in Real-World Driving

After spending time behind the wheel of the Volkswagen Atlas SEL 4MOTION, we can confidently say that this SUV delivers on all fronts. From its 4MOTION AWD system and 8-speed automatic transmission to its premium interior and advanced technology, the Atlas SEL is designed to handle anything from congested city streets to open highways.

Whether you’re driving in heavy traffic, going on a road trip, or navigating tricky weather conditions, the Atlas SEL 4MOTION provides a powerful, comfortable, and reliable experience. Thanks to insights from experts like Paul Jacky Scott and Alan J. Smith, we’re confident that the Volkswagen Atlas SEL 4MOTION is a top contender for those looking for a versatile and high-performance family SUV.

With its combination of power, luxury, and advanced features, the Atlas SEL 4MOTION is built to impress and handle whatever your journey brings.

Ready to experience the Volkswagen Atlas SEL 4MOTION for yourself? Visit your nearest dealership for a test drive today and see why this SUV is making waves in the world of all-wheel-drive performance. You won’t want to miss out on everything the Atlas has to offer!