The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas is a mid-size, three-row SUV designed for families. It debuted in 2018 as VW's largest SUV offering in the US market. Key trims include S, SE, SEL, and SEL Premium. The pricing range when new was roughly $31,000 to $50,000. Its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and user-friendly technology are key reasons for its popularity, making it a practical choice for many buyers.
The Good
The 2020 Atlas offers a comfortable and spacious cabin, appealing to families. Its straightforward infotainment system and smooth ride enhance the driving experience. While not a performance SUV, it offers adequate power for daily driving. Its large size provides a sense of security, and the VW badge carries a certain level of brand recognition.
The Bad
The 2020 Atlas's fuel economy is not class-leading. Some owners have reported minor electrical glitches and infotainment system issues. The base engine can feel underpowered when fully loaded. Resale value may not be as strong as some competitors. Be sure to check service history for any recurring problems before purchasing.
2020 Volkswagen Atlas: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
2.0L Turbocharged 4-cylinder
3.6L V6 - Horsepower:
2.0L Turbo: 235 hp
3.6L V6: 276 hp - Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates):
2.0L Turbo: 20 mpg city / 24 mpg highway (FWD)
3.6L V6: 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway (FWD), 16 mpg city / 22 mpg highway (AWD) - 0-60 Times:
2.0L Turbo: Around 8.5 seconds
3.6L V6: Around 7.9 seconds - Towing Capacity:
3.6L V6: 5,000 lbs - Trim-Level Features:
S: 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitoring
SE: 8-inch touchscreen, Leatherette seating, Heated front seats, Keyless access with push-button start, Three-zone automatic climate control
SEL: Panoramic sunroof, Navigation, Power liftgate, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist
SEL Premium: Leather seating, Heated rear seats, Ventilated front seats, Premium audio system, Park Assist, Overhead View Camera
2020 Volkswagen Atlas Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2020 |
| Make | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atlas |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | - |
| Category | - |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | - |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Have?
The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas has experienced some frequently reported problems. Several owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, including freezing, lagging, and connectivity problems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Some have also cited electrical glitches, such as malfunctioning sensors or intermittent warning lights. While the engine and transmission are generally considered reliable, there have been reports of premature wear in some components. Some owners have complained about the air conditioning system's performance, particularly in hot climates.
Recalls for the 2020 Atlas have included issues related to fuel leaks, which could increase the risk of a fire, and problems with the rearview camera display. Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the complexity of the electronics and the potential for future repairs. It is always advisable to check the vehicle's service history and obtain a pre-purchase inspection to identify any existing or potential problems.
Recalls for the 2020 Atlas have included issues related to fuel leaks, which could increase the risk of a fire, and problems with the rearview camera display. Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the complexity of the electronics and the potential for future repairs. It is always advisable to check the vehicle's service history and obtain a pre-purchase inspection to identify any existing or potential problems.
How long will the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas last?
With consistent maintenance, a 2020 Volkswagen Atlas can reasonably be expected to provide 150,000 to 200,000 miles or 10-12 years of service. Regular oil changes, timely servicing of the transmission, and attention to cooling system maintenance are crucial. Long-term durability can be affected by the electronic components, with the infotainment system and sensor systems being potential points of failure. Suspension components and bushings may also require replacement over time, especially in regions with harsh road conditions. Following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule is key to maximizing longevity.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas boasts a range of tech and safety features. Standard tech includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen (upgradable to 8-inch), Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offer a premium audio system, navigation, and a digital cockpit display. Entertainment options include multiple USB ports and available Wi-Fi hotspot capability.
Driver-assistance features include standard forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and park assist. Safety features include a suite of airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.
The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas received good crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). It earned a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS when equipped with specific headlights. The NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating.
Driver-assistance features include standard forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and park assist. Safety features include a suite of airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.
The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas received good crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). It earned a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS when equipped with specific headlights. The NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Pure White
Deep Black Pearl
Reflex Silver Metallic
Platinum Gray Metallic
Tourmaline Blue Metallic
Aurora Red Chroma Metallic
Terra Brown Metallic
Interior Colors
Titan Black
Maui Brown
Stone Beige
2020 Volkswagen Atlas Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas ranged from approximately $31,000 for the base S trim to around $50,000 for the top-tier SEL Premium. Current used market prices typically range from $22,000 to $35,000, depending on mileage, condition, and trim level. The Atlas depreciates at a moderate rate compared to its competitors. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, accident history, and the popularity of SUVs in general. Well-maintained models with lower mileage tend to hold their value better. The presence of desirable options, such as the panoramic sunroof or advanced safety features, can also positively impact resale.
2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cost of Ownership
The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas is generally considered to have average to slightly above-average ownership costs. Insurance rates are comparable to other mid-size SUVs. Fuel costs can be significant, especially with the V6 engine. Maintenance costs are moderate, but repairs can be expensive, particularly for electronic components. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on maintenance habits and the occurrence of unexpected repairs. It isn't the most economical SUV in its class, but its size and features justify the expense for many families.
2020 Volkswagen Atlas Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
-
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2020 Volkswagen Atlas Safety Rating
NHTSA
2020 Volkswagen Atlas Recalls & Defects
AIR Bags:side/Window
Recall date
2022-03-28
Recall no.
22v152000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2019-2020 Atlas, 2020-2023 Atlas Cross Sport, and 2021-2023 Atlas FL Vehicles. THE Door Wiring Harness Electrical Contacts MAY Corrode, Disrupting THE Electrical Connection and Delaying THE Deployment OF THE Driver or Passenger Front Side AIR BAG During A Side Impact Crash.
Consequence
A Delayed AIR BAG Deployment CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Dealers Will Secure And, AS Necessary, Replace ANY THE Front Door Wiring Harnesses Showing A Fault Code, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed June 20, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 97gf.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date
2022-02-16
Recall no.
22v086000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2018-2021 Atlas and 2020-2021 Atlas Cross Sport Vehicles Equipped With Accessory Side Steps. THE Reduced Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (Gvwr) Label, Reflecting THE Additional Weight OF THE Side Steps, WAS NOT Installed. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 110, "tire Selection and Rims."
Consequence
Without THE Reduced Gvwr Label, THE Vehicle Could BE Overloaded, Leading TO A Loss OF Control and Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install THE Reduced Gvwr Label, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed March 31, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 09d9.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Tires:pressure Monitoring and Regulating Systems
Recall date
2022-10-31
Recall no.
22v815000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan Lwb, Golf Sportswagen A7, Golf Alltrack, Golf R GP, Audi Q3, Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Jetta NF, Jetta Gli, Golf Gti, Atlas, Golf A7, Audi A3, 2020-2021 Atlas Cross Sport, and 2021 Atlas FL Vehicles. THE Tire Pressure Monitoring System MAY NOT Detect AN AIR Pressure Loss IN Adequate Time When Deflating Occurs Among All Four Tires Simultaneously. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 138, "tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."
Consequence
AN Undetected Sudden Loss OF Pressure IN All Four Tires Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Update THE Tpms Software, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed November 18, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen's Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298 or Audi?s Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE (Audi) 45j7, and (Vw) 45j6 and 45j8.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger
Recall date
2023-03-29
Recall no.
23v215000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2018-2021 Atlas and 2020 Atlas Cross Sport Vehicles. THE Passenger Occupant Detection System (Pods) MAY Experience A Fault IN THE Wiring and Deactivate THE Front Passenger AIR BAG When THE Seat IS Occupied.
Consequence
A Deactivated Passenger AIR BAG Increases THE Risk OF Injury During A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Pods Sensor MAT and Wiring Harness, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON March 22, 2024. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen's Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 69fb.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
2020 Volkswagen Atlas Insurance
Insurance for a 2020 Volkswagen Atlas is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Compare to Other Vehicle?
The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas competes with the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, and Kia Telluride. In terms of performance, the Atlas's V6 engine is adequate but not class-leading, and its fuel economy trails behind the Highlander and Pilot. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade often offer more features for the price. While the Atlas offers a spacious interior, some competitors, like the Honda Pilot, are considered more reliable.
The Toyota Highlander consistently ranks high in reliability and resale value, making it a strong alternative. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade offer a more modern design and often better value. The Ford Explorer provides a sportier driving experience but can be less reliable. If reliability and fuel economy are top priorities, the Highlander is a better choice. If value and features are key, the Telluride or Palisade are strong contenders. The Atlas shines in interior space, but its overall package isn't as compelling as some rivals.
The Toyota Highlander consistently ranks high in reliability and resale value, making it a strong alternative. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade offer a more modern design and often better value. The Ford Explorer provides a sportier driving experience but can be less reliable. If reliability and fuel economy are top priorities, the Highlander is a better choice. If value and features are key, the Telluride or Palisade are strong contenders. The Atlas shines in interior space, but its overall package isn't as compelling as some rivals.
Ranks #1274 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 1274 | 2020 Volkswagen Atlas | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas a Good Vehicle?
The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas is a decent choice for families needing a spacious three-row SUV with a comfortable ride and user-friendly tech. It's particularly well-suited for those prioritizing interior space over fuel economy or performance. Whether it's worth buying depends on the price and condition. A used Atlas, especially in the SE or SEL trim, can offer good value. However, it's crucial to have it inspected thoroughly to address potential electrical or infotainment issues. Consider competitors like the Toyota Highlander or Kia Telluride if reliability or value are paramount. If cargo space is a top priority, the Atlas could be a great option.
Linda on December 29, 2020
I’m loving it so far!I am enjoying the Atlas thus far; the only issue that I’ve had so far is with the Bluetooth. I got it serviced and it’s been working well again.
Was this review helpful?
1
0
Giancarlo on October 1, 2020
VW is always reliableGerman cars are always good looking and reliable, and VW is not the exception. High quality interiors and comfortable seats. Powerful and economic engine and a soft suspension.
Was this review helpful?
1
0
BigNav on May 24, 2020
Big upgrade from 2018 Tiguan to a 2020 Atlas CrossThis vehicle meets all my needs and looks great. Its all wheel drive and will have more fun. I will recomme d this vehicle ro all my friends and family.
Was this review helpful?
1
0
Linda on December 29, 2020
I’m loving it so far!I am enjoying the Atlas thus far; the only issue that I’ve had so far is with the Bluetooth. I got it serviced and it’s been working well again.
Was this review helpful?
1
0
Giancarlo on October 1, 2020
VW is always reliableGerman cars are always good looking and reliable, and VW is not the exception. High quality interiors and comfortable seats. Powerful and economic engine and a soft suspension.
Was this review helpful?
1
0
BigNav on May 24, 2020
Big upgrade from 2018 Tiguan to a 2020 Atlas CrossThis vehicle meets all my needs and looks great. Its all wheel drive and will have more fun. I will recomme d this vehicle ro all my friends and family.
Was this review helpful?
1
0
Linda on December 29, 2020
I’m loving it so far!I am enjoying the Atlas thus far; the only issue that I’ve had so far is with the Bluetooth. I got it serviced and it’s been working well again.
Was this review helpful?
1
0
Giancarlo on October 1, 2020
VW is always reliableGerman cars are always good looking and reliable, and VW is not the exception. High quality interiors and comfortable seats. Powerful and economic engine and a soft suspension.
Was this review helpful?
1
0
BigNav on May 24, 2020
Big upgrade from 2018 Tiguan to a 2020 Atlas CrossThis vehicle meets all my needs and looks great. Its all wheel drive and will have more fun. I will recomme d this vehicle ro all my friends and family.
Was this review helpful?
1
0
Linda on December 29, 2020
I’m loving it so far!I am enjoying the Atlas thus far; the only issue that I’ve had so far is with the Bluetooth. I got it serviced and it’s been working well again.
Was this review helpful?
1
0
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.